Home Maintenance 101: Spring Tips
As the days start getting longer and the temperature rises, it’s a good time to get started on your to-do list – whether spring is here to stay or not. The one helpful thing about the near constant freeze-thaw cycle that we’re living in is that it can help you spot where problems are likely to occur in the future.
Let’s dive into how frozen puddles and icicles can actually be your early warning signs.
Exterior Spring Maintenance
Follow the Water:
Icicles are a classic part of winter charm, but did you know that an excess of them often indicates that your attic is improperly insulated? Not to mention the damage that ice can cause to your gutters. Inadequate ventilation is another cause of icicles.
Turning our attention to the ground, water tends to pool in low spots and the cooler temperatures prevent the ground from being able to absorb that water. This presents us with the opportunity to observe where the low spots are in our yards and around our foundations.
If you find that water is pooling against the sides of your house, your driveway, or concrete walkways; then it’s time to start planning a landscaping project for the summer. Sand or clay can be used to change the grade of your home, so that water flows away from these areas before it can cause cracks.
Take Your Caulk for a Walk
Homes shift ever so slightly every time temperatures fluctuate above and below zero. This can create the opportunity for new cracks to form – around windows and doors especially. Go for a walk around the perimeter of your house and keep a tube of caulk with you to fill those cracks as you see them. This is also a good time to check in on your siding, and on your weather stripping – though caulk won’t help with those.
Once you’ve finished, swap your standard caulk out for one that is made for sealing cracks in concrete and take another walk; check your driveway, your walkway, and your front steps.
Ladderly Speaking
If ice is no longer a concern, and the snow has all melted, it’s time to get out your ladder and investigate the roof. Check for loose or damaged shingles. While you’re up there, it makes sense to check your gutters for any new debris since fall. Now that ground has started to absorb water again, why not give your siding a little power wash? It often gets dirty in the winter months.
Lawn Approaches
Now, let’s talk about your yard. The ground is thawing, and it’s time to give your outdoor space a little TLC. First, make sure your lawn is firm and dry before you go dethatching, applying topsoil, overseeding, or fertilizing. Click here to learn more about the best time to tackle lawn care.
As the weather warms up, start watering your lawn to promote seed germination. But don’t get too carried away—nature will help you out with a little bit of rain. Just keep an eye on the forecast and water when needed to keep your soil moist.
Mulch Ado about Nothing
Your garden beds are probably looking a bit cluttered after the winter months, so take some time to clear away any debris or landscaping fabric. With all the melting snow, your mulch may have washed away. A fresh top-up of mulch is one of the quickest ways to refresh your landscaping and help keep weeds at bay. Plus, it gives your yard that neat, polished look.
While your trees and shrubs are still dormant, this is the perfect time to prune them. Trimming back any overgrowth encourages healthy growth when warmer weather hits. Think of it as a little “spring haircut” for your greenery.
Interior Spring Maintenance
Breathe Easy
Start with the basics: smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them to make sure they’re working properly and change the batteries – if you haven’t done so in a while.
As the temperature rises, you’re going to need your air conditioning system to be ready for action. A quick inspection and cleaning now will keep things running smoothly when the hot days arrive. You’ll thank yourself when that first heat wave rolls around.
Humidity control is another key factor to keep your home comfy and healthy. Too much moisture can cause all kinds of issues. Stay ahead of the game by monitoring your humidity levels. Learn more here about how to keep your home dry and happy!
Nooks and Crannies
Spring is all about cleaning – especially those hard-to-reach areas that are often out of sight and out of mind. When was the last time you cleaned the back of your refrigerator? You know, that gross crusty vent part where the coils are. The bad news is that it’s not a fun job, but the good news is that it will make your fridge run more efficiently and save you money. All it takes is a little bit of vacuuming and scrubbing with a dry, coarse brush.
Another popular confined space where trouble can brew is under your sinks. In the bathroom and in the kitchen. It’s important to take everything out of your under-sink cabinets, wipe them out and make sure that all the plumbing has been behaving itself.
The very best part about spring cleaning is that it’s a good time to let go of anything that no longer serves you. Marie Kondo is still a legend.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Spring maintenance doesn’t have to be a chore—it’s a chance to make your home feel fresh, functional, and ready for the new season. Whether it’s sprucing up the inside, tidying the exterior, or giving your landscaping some love, these tasks are the perfect way to start the season right. So go ahead, get started, and enjoy that springtime freshness—your home (and your future self) will thank you!
Did we miss anything? Do you have any secret tips or tricks to help keep your home well maintained this spring? Share your home maintenance tips with us in the comments below!