Now that spring is here and the weather is getting warmer, you will be able to tackle some home maintenance tasks that you couldn’t or didn’t need to do during the winter. The tasks that need to be done will depend on the state of your home, but here are four that you—and pretty much everyone else—should be doing once the weather is nice enough.
Power Wash Your Siding
Your siding will quickly and quietly accumulate a layer of dirt and grime simply by being out in the world and elements. It should be cleaned regularly, but that usually isn’t an option during the winter is cold and damage is plentiful and likely. On the other hand, it’s the perfect project for a warm spring or summer day. A power washer can get rid of the dirt and grime on most kinds of siding. So renting or purchasing one if you want to be rid of several months’ worth of grime and improve your home’s curb appeal is a great weekend project to work on. However, be aware that it isn’t recommended for painted wood siding as it could do significant damage to certain materials.
Clean Your Gutters
A storm during the spring or summer can deposit a lot of debris in your home’s gutters. This debris should be removed quickly and on a regular basis if you want to avoid water damage to your roof. Cleaning gutters isn’t something that is recommended that you do by yourself, but it is at least easier, and often much cheaper, to have it done in the summer than it is in the winter. Not only is there less of a chance of injury, but getting rid of some wet leaves is a simpler task than melting down the ice dams that can form in the winter.
Clean Your Windows
You obviously can wipe down your windows from inside your home at any time of the year, but you should only clean the outside of your windows when the weather permits. Once you have a pleasantly sunny day and a few free hours, bring a cleaning solution or some soap and water outside with a squeegee and wash away the filth that has collected on your windows. If you have a few second floor windows, a ladder will be needed. If you feel uncomfortable with a precarious perch, don’t be afraid to hire a professional to help out.
Have Your HVAC System Serviced
Most heating and cooling experts recommend having your HVAC system serviced and cleaned at least once a year, preferably in the earlier months of the year. The weather will have gotten warm enough by this time to clean out your outdoor central air unit if you have one, and it will ensure that your air conditioner is in good working condition for when it start to get really hot outside. It will also extend the life of your HVAC system, lower your utility bills, and improve your home’s air quality.
We know that home maintenance can seem like a big task in the spring, especially after you’ve been forced to put it off for several months. It is a crucial task as a homeowner, though. These are some of the easiest things you can do, but they will improve the comfort and the look of your home until the next fall comes around.
