Many areas around the country are transitioning to spring where temperatures become bearable and rain becomes plentiful. The snow and bitter cold can take a toll on the home. And depending on your location, spring home maintenance is more of a necessity than a luxury. Some items on the list might include clearing out the gutters, pressure washing the exterior, and getting replacement windows in Portland, OR. Here is a more comprehensive spring maintenance checklist for this change in seasons:
1. Inspect for Winter Damages
Even if the winter season was mild, it is still important to properly inspect the inside and outside of the home for signs of damage caused by ice and snow. Pay close attention to any leaks. Water intrusion can lead to bacterial growth as the weather gets warmer. It is not something to take lightly. Check the roof for ice dams, check for frozen or broken pipes, and check the rest of your home for any signs of leaks or water damage.
2. Open Exterior Vents and Check Attics, Crawlspaces, and Basements
After being sealed up all winter, it is important to circulate the air in the home—the entire home. Open the vents in the attic, crawlspace, or basement. No vents? Consider having some installed. Homes today are made more airtight than ever. In many ways this is good, but it can cause a buildup of radon because of stagnant air. It can also encourage mildew and mold growth. As you open the vents check for damaged screens or broken parts and make note of the needed repairs.
3. Turn on Outside Water and Inspect Sprinklers
Once the danger of frost has passed you can turn on your outside water, reattach garden hoses, and inspect your sprinkler system. This will allow you to get on top of any repairs before technicians get too busy.
4. Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts collect a lot of debris over the course of the winter. So before the rainy season really sets in you want to be sure you remove all the leaves and sediment so water continues to flow away from your home. Run a hose on the roof and watch for proper drainage. And if you notice clogs on any of the downspouts, clear them out. If you are uncomfortable on the roof, you can absolutely hire a professional to take care of this maintenance task.
5. Pressure Wash the Exterior
Don’t have a pressure washer? You can usually rent one from a local hardware store. It will be worth it. There is nothing quite like watching as months’ worth of grime gets swept away in a matter of minutes. You can pressure wash your exterior, siding, fences, driveway, and patio. Just do not pressure wash your windows, because it can damage the seals and end up doing more harm than good.
6. Clean and Inspect Windows
Speaking of windows, spring is a great time to give your windows a thorough inspection and cleaning. Wash away the grime and check for any signs of leaks or damage. If you notice water damage, fogging between the panes, or difficult operation—it might be time for replacement windows.
As you go about your spring home maintenance, you may find out there is a lot of work to be done. Prioritize your list. And if you are interested in replacement windows in Portland, OR, start by contacting EnergyGuard Windows & Doors. We can get you fair pricing on the best products. And getting in early means you can get your project done a lot faster than putting it off until the busy season.