Spring is always the time for fresh beginnings and setting your “house in order.” Part of that is getting to that To Do List and making sure regular maintenance is done. Here’s a list of regular maintenance (split into exterior and interior) projects that you may need to put on the schedule either as a DIY (Do It Yourself) projects or to hire someone to help.
EXTERIOR
Since these tasks are somewhat weather sensitive, let’s look at them first!
House Surfaces:
- Repair glazing, caulk, and weather stripping around windows and doors
- Repair cracked bricks and missing mortar
- Repair freeze/thaw cracks in drives and walks
- Repair, prime, and paint areas with peeling paint
- Search for signs of colonized insects or pests
Roof:
- Check your roof for damage or missing shingles
- Check for cracked flashing or damaged caulk seals
- Trim branches and trees away from the roof
Structure:
- Check basement and foundation walls for cracks
- Check your chimney for cracks and leaks
- Check your crawl space for moisture
Water Control:
- Clean your gutters and window wells
- Extend downspouts away from your foundation
- Make sure grading flows water away
- Test your sump pump for proper operation, if applicable
Fuel Services:
- Check your gas/oil tank for odors and leaks – or have it check by a professional
Property:
- Treat your lawn with fertilizer and pest control
- Power wash and seal your deck and patio
- Remove your outdoor furniture from storage and clean
- De-winterize and service your lawn sprinklers, if applicable
- Remove debris from yard and high traffic areas
- Test your lawn mower and trimmer
INTERIOR
On those days when outdoor projects are not possible because of weather, try tackling some of these indoor tasks.
Windows and Fans:
- Clean and lubricate your window channels
- Clean glass on windows and doors
- Reverse ceiling fans to direct heat upward
Insulation and Ventilation:
- Check your attic for proper insulation
- Clean your dryer vent
- Check vents for birds, squirrels or other pests
- Test your dehumidifier, if applicable
Electrical Systems:
- Test all smoke and CO detectors, replace batteries!
- Test and reset your GFCI and AFCI outlets/breakers
HVAC:
- Change your filters
- Hire an HVAC contractor to service your system
- Install window AC units and ensure proper fit. If applicable
Plumbing:
- Check all fixtures for leaks
- Check tile joints, grout, and caulking
- Remove hoses from storage and open spigots
- Check faucets and valves for leaks or damage
- Check washing machine hoses for cracks or loose fittings
Identify which spring maintenance projects you are willing to DIY and which you’d rather have some help accomplishing. We have a whole list of Triangle area home care professionals that we can recommend. From HVAC to gutter repair and cleaning, we have a professional for every maintenance need. Call us today to get a copy of the whole list – 919-235-0007. And, when you get ready to tackle interior cleaning, don’t forget about our FREE Shred Event – May 12th from 10am – 2pm at 7300 Six Forks Road in Raleigh.