2021 SPRING HOME MAINTENANCE GUIDE

2021 Spring Home Maintenance Guide

 

After a long, cold winter, many of us look forward to a fresh start in the spring. Wash away the winter grime, open the windows, and prepare your home for warmer weather and backyard barbecues.

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Inside

 

❏ Conduct Annual Spring Cleaning

Be sure to tackle those areas that may have gone neglected—such as your blinds, baseboards and fan blades—as well as appliances, including your refrigerator, dishwasher, oven and range hood. Clear out clutter and clothes you no longer wear, and toss old and expired food and medications.

 

❏ Shut Down Heating System

Depending on the type of heating system you have, you may need to shut your system down when not in use. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper procedures.

 

❏ Tune Up A/C

If your home has central air conditioning, schedule an annual tune-up with your HVAC technician. If you have a portable or window unit, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper maintenance.

Find a HVAC technician near you! 
https://www.thumbtack.com/k/hvac-technicians/near-me/

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❏ Check Plumbing

It’s a good idea to periodically check your plumbing to spot any leaks or maintenance issues. Look for evidence of leaks—such as water stains on the ceiling—and check for dripping faucets or running toilets that need to be addressed. Inspect your hot water heater for sediment build up. Check your sump pump (if you have one) to ensure it’s working properly.

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Find the best plumber near you! 

https://www.thumbtack.com/al/northport/plumbing/

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❏ Inspect Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Batteries should be replaced every six months, so change them now and again in the fall. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to test your individual devices. And even properly functioning devices should be replaced at least every 10 years, or per the manufacturer’s recommendation.

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How Much Do Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detectors Cost?

https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/safety-and-security/smoke-co-detector-prices/

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Outside

 

❏ Inspect Perimeter of Home

Walk around your house and look for any signs of damage or wear and tear that should be addressed. Are there cracks in the foundation? Peeling paint? Loose or missing roof shingles? Make a plan to make needed repairs yourself or hire a contractor.

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Find a house painter near you!

https://www.thumbtack.com/k/house-painting/near-me/?

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❏ Clean Home’s Exterior

Wash windows and clean and replace screens if they were removed during the winter months. For the home’s facade, it’s generally advisable to use the gentlest method that is effective. A simple garden hose will work in most cases.

How Much Does Window Cleaning Cost?

https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/cleaning-services/clean-windows/

 

❏ Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts should be cleaned at least twice a year. Neglected gutters can cause water damage to a home, so make sure yours are clean and free of debris. If your gutters have screens, you may be able to decrease the frequency of cleanings, but they should still be checked periodically.

 

❏ Rake Leaves

Gently rake your lawn to remove leaves and debris. Too many leaves can cause an excessive layer of thatch, which can damage the roots of your lawn. They can also harbor disease-causing organisms and insects. However, take care because overly vigorous raking can damage new grass shoots.

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Find a leaf raking professional near you

https://www.thumbtack.com/k/leaf-raking-services/near-me/

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❏ Seed or Sod Lawn

If you have bare spots, spring is a good time to seed or lay new sod so you can enjoy a beautiful lawn throughout the remainder of the year. The peak summer heat can be too harsh for a new lawn. If you miss this window, early fall is another good time to plant.

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Top Lawn Care Services

https://www.homeadvisor.com/c.Lawn-Garden-Care.-12047.html

 

❏ Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide

While a healthy lawn is the best deterrent for weeds, some homeowners choose to use a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring to minimize weeds. When applied at the right time, it can be effective in preventing weeds from germinating. However, a pre-emergent herbicide will also prevent grass seeds from germinating, so only use it if you don’t plan to seed or sod in the spring.

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https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/home-garden/pre-emergent-herbicides-kill-lawn-weeds/

 

❏ Plant Flowers

After a long winter, planting annuals and spring perennials is a great way to brighten up your garden. It’s also a good time to prune existing flowers and shrubs and remove and compost any dead plants.

https://www.greentopps.com/?

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❏ Mulch Beds

A layer of fresh mulch helps to suppress weeds, retain moisture and moderate soil temperature. However, be sure to strip away old mulch at least every three years to prevent excessive buildup.

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https://www.homeadvisor.com/tloc/Port-Charlotte-FL/Landscape-Soil-Sand-and-Rock-Delivery/

 

 

❏ Fertilize Lawn

Depending on your grass type, an application of fertilizer in the spring may help promote new leaf and root growth, keep your lawn healthy, and reduce weed.

https://landing.trugreen.com/weed-specific?

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❏ Tune Up Lawn Mower

Send your lawn mower out for a professional tune-up and to have the blades sharpened before the mowing season starts.

 

 

❏ Inspect Sprinkler System

If you have a sprinkler system, check that it’s working properly and make repairs as needed.

 

❏ Check the Deck

If you have a deck or patio, inspect it for signs of damage or deterioration that may have occurred over the winter. Then clean it thoroughly and apply a fresh coat of stain if needed.

https://www.homeadvisor.com/sem/task.Inspection-General-Home-Home-Inspector.40087.html?

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❏ Prepare Pool

If you own a pool, warmer weather signals the start of pool season. Be sure to follow best practices for your particular pool to ensure proper maintenance and safety.

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