Spring is the perfect time to work on the house because the weather is mild. There are some tasks that can’t be completed during the winter, but once the days begin to get longer, homeowners have more opportunities to get outside and get work done. Here are a few easy spring home improvement projects.
Spring Home Improvement: Clean the Gutters
Cleaning your gutters is worth the effort. Clogged gutters can cause expensive roof and foundation damage. If you feel confident on a ladder, you may be able to clean the gutters yourself. If not, hire a professional. For the DIYers, hardware stores sell gutter scoops, which are designed to scrape out leaves and other debris. You could also scoop the gutters with gloved hands. Once the bulk of the material is cleared away, rinse excess debris with a garden hose. Make sure water flows freely out of the downspouts. If not, try to flush out the debris with the garden hose. If that does not work, you may have to remove the downspout to remove the clog.
Spring is a Great Time for an Attic Inspection
During the stormy winter months, some of your roofing material may have loosened or blown off. Check your attic for any signs of water intrusion, staining, or mold. While you are up there, look for rodent droppings. Mice and other critters can damage building materials and chew wiring. If you see evidence of an infestation, set traps or call an exterminator.
Heating and Air Conditioning Maintenance
To get ready for the summer sun, the HVAC system should be prepared for the season. Regular maintenance will help your system run more efficiently and reduce energy costs. Some of the common maintenance tasks include changing the filter, inspecting the hoses, and cleaning the vents. To clean the vents, vacuum or dust them. If they are grimy, turn the system off, unscrew the plates from the wall, and soak them in warm, soapy water. Some climates warrant duct cleaning. If you notice a musty odor coming out of the vents, contact a professional duct cleaning company.
Springtime Window Cleaning
Cleaning the windows and screens will brighten up the room. You can make your own cleaning solution with 4 cups of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol. Spray the interior glass and rub with a microfiber cloth. To clean the exterior, remove the screens and rinse them with the garden hose. Spray the windows with a premixed commercial cleaner that you can attach to the garden hose, or use your homemade solution and a squeegee.
Spring Home Improvement Projects: Lawn and Landscaping
Most spring cleaning includes lawn, garden, and landscaping duties. If you have a grassy lawn, rake and aerate the grass and fill in any bare spots with grass seed. To prevent the birds from eating the seeds, cover the patches with hay or mulch. Water the seeded areas well. The covering will help keep the seeds damp so that they can germinate. Spring is also the time to get your lawn mower tuned up and the blades sharpened. Test the sprinkler system to check for leaks and adjust the sprinkler heads.
Redtail Building Services offers home inspection services to Southeastern Virginia. Contact us to request an appointment.