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Spring cleaning is an integral part of home maintenance and is essential for keeping your home in optimal condition. This time of year marks the perfect opportunity to make sure your home is in top shape, from the roof to the foundation. To help you get started, here are five critical spring cleaning tasks you need to check off for optimal home maintenance.
Inspect your gutters and downspouts. Monsoon season in Santa Fe will be here before we know it. Imagine a rainstorm hitting your home only to find that your gutters and downspouts are filled with leaves and twigs. Not a pretty picture, right? Over time, gutters and downspouts can accumulate buildup that can prevent water from flowing through properly. This buildup can include leaves, dirt, branches, and even dead animals (yes, it's happened!). The result can be water overflowing and damaging your home's foundation, siding, or even interior walls. So, it's essential to check your gutters and downspouts regularly and clean them out when necessary.
Check for cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior. After a long, harsh winter, it's essential to inspect your home thoroughly to ensure it's in top condition for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. One critical area to check is your home's exterior for cracks and gaps. Ignoring these seemingly minor imperfections can lead to big problems down the road. For example, cracks and gaps can allow water to seep into your home, causing damage to your foundation and interior walls. They can also provide a convenient entry point for pests, which can cause all sorts of problems and headaches for homeowners. If you find any issues, don't hesitate to address them promptly. A little bit of prevention now can save you a lot of headaches and money in the long run.
Assess your roof for damage. Inspecting your roof for damage is a crucial part of your home inspection checklist after winter ends and spring begins. Neglecting your roof can lead to significant damage to your home's interior and costly repairs. Check for any missing, loose, or damaged shingles and any signs of water damage. In addition, it's crucial to inspect the flashing around chimneys and vent pipes, as well as any roof-mounted equipment such as HVAC systems or solar panels. If you notice any signs of damage, call a professional roofer to assess and repair the problem. Roof maintenance is critical because your roof is your home's first line of defense against harsh weather conditions. By regularly checking your roof, you can detect potential issues early on and address them before they become more significant problems.
Evaluate your landscape. Spring is a great time to conduct a home inspection to determine what work needs to be done outside to prevent any issues. First, take a walk around your property and look for any damage to trees or shrubs that may have occurred due to winter storms. Next, look for signs of rot or decay that may indicate a tree or plant is dead or dying. Remove any dead plants to prevent pest infestations and the spread of disease. Next, check your lawn for bald patches or signs of winter kill. This could indicate a need for lawn repair or overseeding. Finally, don't forget to inspect hardscaping features, such as retaining walls, walkways, and patios, for signs of damage or shifting. Another crucial step is to check your drainage system. Evaluate your landscape's grading and ensure water is being diverted away from your home's foundation. If you notice any standing water, you may need to regrade your landscape or install drainage systems to prevent flooding and water damage.
Give your HVAC system a tune-up. As winter ends and spring begins, it's essential to give your HVAC system a thorough tune-up to ensure it's in proper working condition. Your HVAC system plays a vital role in keeping your home comfortable year-round, and without proper maintenance, it can lead to significant problems down the road. Not only can an unmaintained HVAC system result in increased energy bills, but it can also decrease the lifespan of your system, leading to costly repairs or even replacement. Scheduling an annual tune-up with a qualified HVAC technician can save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches. Scheduling an annual tune-up with a qualified technician can save you time and money and provide a healthier living environment for you and your family.
If you have more questions about home inspections and maintenance, we’re here to help.