The last time we created a seasonal post, we were excited for the promising future a sparkling Colorado winter could bring– one full of un-crowded ski slopes and powdered snow that somehow never manages to accumulate on the roads. Now, that same season has worn out it’s welcome by a solid month, maybe two.
Seasoned Coloradans know that we still have about another month of winter weather before we feel the full effects of Spring. We recommend you take this opportunity to start preparing your home for the changes that a new season always brings along. To help usher in a bright, new Spring season in all of it’s warm and colorful glory, we have compiled our Top 9 To-Do’s to help you prepare your home for Spring.
1. inspect the outside of your home.
Do an inspection of the exterior of your home from back to front yard. As you walk around your home, check:
- Exterior faucets for frozen water inside the pipes
- Driveways and walkways for cracks or other damages freezing and thawing can cause
- Cracks in wood or stone for termites (especially March-June)
- Screen doors and windows for tears
- Sprinkler and irrigation systems for damaged heads, and adjust any heads that are spraying the house, sidewalk, or street.
2. Check your roof.
Spend the time to check your roof for any signs of damage. Replace damaged, loose, or missing shingles that may have leaked or sagged during winter storms. Before replacing your shingles, make sure to clear off any debris that may be on top of your roof. Even small bits of debris will hold moisture and possibly rot or mold, which will break down your roofing material.
3. check for air leaks.
Check for any air that is leaking in or out of your home. You may need caulking or weather stripping to help fix these leaks.
Caulk is a flexible adhesive used to seal air leaks in cracks that are less than 1-quarter-inch wide. Caulking windows and doors is an effective way to save money on your energy bill this year as it helps to prevent air from flowing out of (or into) your home.
4. clean the outside of your home.
After inspection, clean the windows and screens, touch up any paint, power wash as needed, and replace any broken screens. Check the gutters for any ice dams that may have formed during the winter, and remove any debris you find. While you are cleaning the gutters, ensure that the downspouts are functioning properly. Melted snow has nowhere to go if the gutters are clogged.
5. check your foundation.
Inspect your foundation walls and floor for any cracks, gaps, or dampness that may have accrued over the winter. Make an appointment with a contractor if needed.
6. look for small fixes.
It is important to give proper care to the inside of your home, too! Check for squeaky doors, dripping faucets, loose cabinet hinges, or other small repairs you may have been putting off the past few months. When spring rolls around, it will feel good to have little details taken care of so you can enjoy the warm sunshine!
7. check your attic and basement.
Again, check for any problems including pests, water damage, air leaks, and moldy insulation. Have the ventilation system checked, as this helps remove moisture and prevent heat buildup. If you find moisture in your basement, check your plumbing system and fix all leaks.
It is also recommend that you have an insulation professional check to make sure your insulation is in good condition, hasn’t shifted, and that there is plenty of it (AAC).
8. check your air conditioner.
Inspect your A/C unit for leaks in the hoses, and always remember the change the filter! It is recommended that you change air filters once a season. To keep your A/C running smoothly, take this time to hire a licensed professional to services your equipment.
After a maintenance check, your air system is likely to run much more efficiently, saving energy and reducing utility expenses.These professionals are typically very busy during summer, so it is best to schedule your inspection sooner rather than later.
9. take some time to spring clean.
Some people love spring cleaning, and some do not. Regardless, it’s critical to the upkeep and maintenance of your home! Dust off your ceiling fans, wipe down trims, disinfect door handles, and have furniture and draperies steamed (steaming kills unwanted guests and rids of wrinkles!).
COLD WEATHER CARE
Understanding how to take care of your home is essential – especially in areas such as Colorado that have four distinct seasons and the potential for weather extremes. Winter especially can cause damage that can be devastating if left unchecked. The most important task for Spring is to inspect your home for physical damages and prevent them from compounding in the future.
Download an abbreviated PDF version of this blog post to hang on your fridge as a reminder for the upcoming season! If you have any other tips and tricks for caring for your home, let us know in the comments below. We are always looking for ways to improve our expertise!
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