After a long, harsh winter, spring’s sunny days and gentle breezes are a breath of fresh air. However, the bright sun seems to shine a light on all that winter has left behind. Here are a few tips to get your home ready for spring, as this is often the best time to inspect your home for problems.
- Check for loose or leaky gutters Gutters that are not draining properly can lead to water in basements or crawl spaces. Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation and are free and clear of leaves or other debris.
- Use compacted soil to fill in low areas of the yard, or areas which are next to the foundation. Spring rains can cause your yard to flood, which can lead to foundation flooding and damage. Also, when water pools in these low areas in the summer, it creates a breeding ground for pesky insects.
- From the ground, examine roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during the winter months. If the roof covering of your home is older, you may want to consider starting to save to replace it. You should replace any cracked, loose, or buckled shingles, or shingles that are missing granules. A qualified roofer should check the flashing around plumbing vents, skylights, and chimneys, and repair them as necessary.
- Look for any signs of damage to the exterior of the chimney. Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.
- Have a qualified HVAC contractor clean and service the outside unit of the air conditioning system. Clean coils operate more efficiently and an annual maintenance call will ensure the system continues to work at optimal performance levels. Be sure to change filters on a regular basis.
