Are you ready for spring home improvements? We are! Get ready for summer with this simple 5 item checklist to get your home ready and prepared for the warm weather. Let’s Go!
1. Clean Your Gutters
Clearly (no pun intended) you need to clear those gutters of all debris including small twigs, dirt and leaves. If you had ice dams this past winter they have the potential to damage your gutter, downspouts and/or your home’s exterior siding/fascia. Make sure your gutter is intact and draining properly before you grab a hose to wash away dirt and leaves. Gutters should also not be sagging or broken.
The last thing you want is to create any leaks into your home. Gutter problems can cause serious issues including foundational damage.
2. Check Your Roof for Damage
The winter season can do extensive damage to your home, such as damaged shingles and even rot on the roof deck. Check your roof shingles to see if there are any missing, curling, rotting, or loose. Loose shingles can allow moisture inside your attic space, resulting in expensive repairs.
Also, check for algae growth. On the inside of your home check for water spots on your ceiling as this can indicate leaking and roof trouble.
If you’re concerned about roof damage, it’s critical to reach out for a free estimate on roof installation. A new roof improves home performance all while protecting you from the elements.
3. Check Your Home Siding
Are you ready for some serious curb appeal?
Tired of peeling paint and faded siding?
Before you liven up your home give your home a lookover before you head into a fresh, spring makeover.
Check your siding for peeled paint, warped shingles, and termites as these can be indications of water damage. Please know I learned this the hard way: you never own a paint job, you lease it.
Furthermore, you have to consider what is happening beneath your existing siding. If your siding is old and rotting, you can bet that you have problems going on underneath as well. This compromises home performance and can result in energy loss.
Also, you can have the look of wood shakes (very popular!) and have it be maintenance free for life. Learn more about our maintenance-free vinyl siding. Side Note: Please don’t power wash your siding before checking into your warranty as this could void it.
4. Check Your Windows & Doors
Be sure to check your windows and doors to ensure they are still functioning properly.
Many homeowners had ice dam leaks this winter and you’ll want to make sure your windows weren’t compromised. Your windows should NOT be drafty or have any air leakage.
Check the caulking and weather stripping around your windows and doors to ensure a tight seal as this is your first line of defense against air and water. If you see any condensation on your windows (fogged glass) it means that your windows are no longer working properly. If you do need to replace your windows, don’t fret, energy efficient replacement windows can offer up to an 87% return on investment and will lower your energy bills!
As for your front door, check for peeling paint and cracking. A cracking wood door could indicate water penetration. Replacement entry doors were found to offer the highest ROI of any home improvement! Find out the top ROI home improvements now.
5. Attend to Your Yard
Assess your yard after this harsh winter and help get it into shape for the upcoming spring and summer months. Rake up any branches and leaves and look for bald spots on your lawn, damaged trees and shrubs. Did you treat your roof with sodium chloride and now you find it’s damaging your yard? Check out this great advice from Rich Grant of Mayer Tree Service on how to restore your trees and shrubs. Mayer Tree is also offering $200 off a full care lawn program.
Do you have any additional home improvements you like to take on during the spring? We love to hear what you are doing to prepare your home for the season. Contact us today for a free quote!
