We all wait for the warmer weather of spring – which leads to summer sunshine. However, it’s also the time of year where a lot of our homes exterior maintenance checks need to be completed. Some of the more important projects that you should ensure completed are the following:
Shingles:
Shingles are important regardless of the season but take a beating through the winter months. There are two ways you can inspect your roof each Spring. You can climb up and inspect your roof – look for lifting shingles and missing or dried caulking around vents and joints. Or, you can hire someone to come and check for you if you’re not able; or willing. This way you can ensure that you don’t experience any unwanted flooding throughout the year.
Chimney:
While you are on your roof checking your shingles, take a moment to inspect your chimney. Make sure that it is in good condition after the cold months and that the caulking at the base is still in good condition. This is also a great time to have your chimney professionally cleaned if you used it a lot throughout the winter; that way you know it’s done whenever you decide to use it again.
Gutters & Downspouts:
Clean gutters and extend downspouts. While this sounds minor it’s vitally important in the grand scheme of things. Debris often plugs up gutters in the fall and winter and then with the first rainfall in Spring you’ll find water overflowing from the gutters – not something anyone wants. Ensure that you give your gutters a nice cleaning to prepare for the warmer months. Your downspouts are another area to pay attention to – downspouts need to be extended prior to winter snow melt and spring rainfall. This helps ensure that you keep water away from the foundation of your home which is vitally important to keeping your basement foundation dry.
Spot Paint Outdoor Window Sills/Door Frames:
It is important to ensure that there is no exposed wood on your window sills or door frames. This can lead to rotting. Often during the cold winter months, paint will chip or wear away; take the time to touch up these areas with some paint while the weather is warm and sunny.
Window/Door Screens:
We all know that when summer hits, we will want to have those windows and doors open, letting the summer air in. Now is the time to check that all windows function properly and to ensure that there are no holes in the screens. It is said that any hole larger than a dime should be repaired as it could let in pesky bugs.
Pressure Wash Siding:
Spring is a great time to give the outside of your house a little TLC. Pressure washing your siding will remove dust and dirt, making your home extra clean.
Check Decks & Fences for Deterioration:
The winter can be hard on the wood surfaces of our homes. Do a quick inspection to ensure that your decks and fences have experienced no deterioration. If so, it may be time to repair or repaint to prevent further damage.
Grading:
Check the grade of your home to ensure that it is sloping away from your house to keep rainwater away from your foundation. If your grade does slope toward your home look at building it up to go away from the house.
Spring is a perfect time to ensure that your home is ready for the coming summer – and the remainder of the year. If you have any questions about exterior home maintenance or anything else home related, or need a referral for someone who can assist you with maintenance ideas – feel free to give me a call.