Spring is approaching fast, and after a long winter every home needs a little attention, both inside and out. Here are a few important tips for spring cleaning and repairs that can save a lot of money in the long run.
The long months of winter can be hard on a home, and as spring approaches it’s important to take care of a few important things to keep everything safe and working properly. From outside cleanup to deep indoor cleaning, spring is the perfect to time to give a home some much-needed attention.
Clear Away Outdoor Debris
Sometimes the snow falls too quickly and too heavily to get all of the fall debris cleared away before winter – or homeowner’s simply don’t get around to it. Fallen leaves under the snow can be ignored until spring, when they can start to cause problems.
Gutters need to be clear of leaves and other debris in order to function properly, and with the snow melting and turning to running water, those gutters have to be working. Check gutters and downspouts to ensure that leaves and other debris have been cleared away so that everything can flow the way it should.
The same goes for the rest of the yard; spring is the time to clean up any leftover mess from last fall. Wet leaves on walkways can be slippery and pose a risk, and anything that could affect drainage in the yard should be removed to avoid water damage.
Check For Winter Damage
Winter’s harsh weather can do damage to the outside of a house. Once it’s safe to do so, inspect the roof for any damage to shingles or rotting wood. The same goes for the rest of the house and yard, especially any area where snow was piled up and may have been putting a strain on the structure.
Snow can also do damage to sidewalks and driveways, so check for cracks that could become serious over time, or could cause people to trip, and avoid submitting a home insurance claim. Re-paving isn’t necessary every year, but should be done when the damage becomes a potential danger.
Indoor Spring Cleaning
Beyond cleaning out those closets, there are some vital spring cleaning tasks that should be taken care of as the weather starts to turn. Running the heat all winter usually means that the ventilation system could use a cleaning. It’s also important to check on the furnace filter to see if it needs to be cleaned or replaced, depending on the type being used.
Those who have a fireplace that has been in use over the winter months should have a professional come in to clean the chimney and inspect it. The inside of the fireplace will need a cleaning as well to remove the excess ash and soot built up over the winter.
Professional carpet cleaning is a good investment in the spring as well, getting rid of allergens and dirt that can build up over time and affect the health of those living in the house.
