Home Maintenance Checklist - Spring Edition
Spring! Is that really you?! I think we are finally seeing some true signs of Spring in the Okanagan! Each week we are seeing a little less rain and a little more sunshine! This blog is about some important Spring home maintenance to do's!
1. Clean out Vents & Filters - Any vent that leads to outside (bathroom, range, or dryer vent) should be cleaned out of any debris. This will prevent potential fire hazards and keep a strong ventilation system for clean airflow throughout your home. Furnace filters are always good to change over with a new season along with replacing or cleaning your appliance filters such as your stove and oven!
2. Repair Screens - Although your home may be safe from pests on the interior, having a cracked or torn window or door screen is an open invitation for the outdoor world. Replace your damaged screen or purchase a screen repair kit at your local hardware store.
3. Roof Repair - Inspect your homes shingles to ensure they remain tightly intact and investigate signs of any leakage or damage from both the exterior and interior (through your attic space) of your home.
4. Repaint - Paint and siding create a barrier for your homes interior, if cracking or peeling occurs then that springtime rain has a way of getting into the wooden structure of your home with potential to cause serious damage over time. Repair your exterior peeling paint and/or damaged siding before a small problem becomes a larger one.
5. Test Smoke Alarms - A simple and quick test to do - simply push the test button on your smoke alarms to see if they sound - if not, your best bet is to change the battery (usually a 9 volt) or the alarm itself. Be sure to check every alarm in your home, just because one is working doesn't always mean they are all functioning properly. This task is often overlooked or forgotten about despite the importance of your safety.
6. Yard Maintenance - Remove dead plants and make room for new plant life! Brighten your yard and give it the curb appeal it deserves. Air-rating your lawn is a good idea especially if your lawn grows on a clay like base, it will allow airflow and speed up the growing process. Fertilizing your lawn after a fresh mow will green your grass in a hurry!
7. Repair Gutters* - I have star'd this task due to the amount of rain we have received this spring. A leaky gutter can create a pool of water around your homes foundation which can eventually seep into your basement and cause flooding. Take a peek to see if they are free of debris and remember next time it rains to check how they are draining. It is important that they are draining the water away from your home.
8. Pressure Washing - Exterior siding and driveways are always due for a solid pressure wash after a couple seasons! Inspect your driveway prior for any cracks or small holes that have developed over the colder months and fill them as necessary, you want to avoid water from getting in and under your driveway. Take caution when cleaning your siding, clean at a horizontal and downward level to avoid upward spray getting in and under your siding causing moisture problems later on.
9. Tune up your AC - Clean the coils and drain pans and always remember to replace the filters. Also check connection hoses for any visible tears, rips or holes. Never a bad idea to get a tune up from a professional! Your able to save a few bucks on a tune up if you are living in a newer home where warranty still applies.
Questions about the blog? Please do not hesitate to contact me at Escape Home Services. If your looking for professional to assist you with any one of these maintenance tips - we can help! Your Investment is our Priority.
Escape Home Services - Karlyn Fisher
escapehomebc@gmail.com
250-938-1804