Is your home ready for the new season to start?
Take a look at our list of spring maintenance tasks that usually need tackling:
- Get your air conditioner cleaned and serviced. Did you know clean coils operate more efficiently? With that and a filter change, your air conditioner will be primed to keep you cool and cut your costs.
- Change the batteries in your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector. Your life-saving detectors should be tested monthly and re-energized annually.
- Check your fire extinguisher. Make sure it’s fully charged, easily accessible and in good condition. Last but not least, make sure it’s not expired. Replace if needed.
- Seal the gaps in your home. Keep the air in and the rodents out. Make sure your home is completely sealed around the roof, windows and doors.
- Inspect your roof shingles. If any were lost or damaged during the winter, they’ll likely need to be replaced.
- Clear your gutters. Before the spring rain starts, be sure your gutters are free from leaves and debris.
- Check your deck. If the wood is soft or spongy, it could be decaying — which could cause serious problems.
- Examine your outside faucets. Did the winter weather wreak havoc on your pipes? If you can stop the flow of the water by placing your thumb over the spout, they may need to replaced.
- Clean your screens. On a flat surface, gently scrub your window screens with soapy water. Patch small holes as needed.
- Touch-up any peeling paint. Paint protects your home from the elements, and touching it up is easy to do. Need painting tips? We’ve got you covered.
- Patch the cracks in your driveway. Fill any cracks the cold may have caused. Or, if your driveway is made of brick, repair or replace the ones that need it.
- Tighten wobbly railings. For support on the steps, make sure your handrails are secure.
- Change your outdoor light bulbs. Replace any dim or burnt out bulbs. Then, to maximize the available lighting, clean all of the outdoor light fixtures.
Spring could also be the season to evaluate your unique home insurance needs. Want to start a conversation? Find a local, independent agent in your area.