Spring weather seems like it’s just around the corner—if it hasn’t arrived already. Take advantage of the moderate temperatures to get a head start on what should be an annual spring home maintenance routine and the benefits it can provide. Most of these items are fairly straight-forward and relatively easy to perform. If you are unsure or need additional guidance, you can find a video for most anything online. Make sure to watch a few videos to find what works best for you.
Your home inspector may have addressed some of these home maintenance items and listed them on your home inspection report. Use the list below to guide you, and remember that consistent home maintenance will protect your home for years to come.
Exterior
Roof
· Inspect the roof (with binoculars) for damage, lifted or missing shingles, and damaged flashing.
· Check the gutters and downspouts for debris.
Chimney
· Check for any loose bricks or flashing.
· Have any wood-burning appliances professionally inspected and cleaned.
Exterior Walls
· Check the walls for damage and loose materials.
· Caulk or repair cracks and openings.
· Repair and paint any loose paint, exposed wood, or trim.
· Check all hose faucets for operation.
· Inspect and remove lint and debris from all external vents and air intakes.
· Check and replace any exterior lighting.
Deck
· Inspect and repair any deteriorated wood, displaced or loose boards, supports, or railings.
· Inspect for any “springiness” in the structure.
Foundation
· Inspect for and repair any cracks or openings.
· Ensure that the soil slopes away from the foundation.
· Ensure that downspout discharge chutes are installed and directed away from the foundation.
Interior
Windows
· Check for cracked panes and loose or missing caulk.
· Clean the windows, tracks, and frames of any dirt or debris.
· Check all windows for proper operation and adjust as necessary.
Kitchen
· Clean refrigerator door gaskets and seals, and lubricate hinges.
· Vacuum the refrigerator and freezer condenser coils.
· Check and repair appliance lights.
· Inspect or replace the fire extinguisher.
Plumbing
· Check for leaks under kitchen, bathroom, and laundry sinks.
· Check the water hoses on the washing machine for cracks, bulges, and leaks.
· Check the water heater for leaks or corrosion.
Interior
· Repair nail pops, gouges, and cracks on your walls and ceilings.
· Touch up paint chips and scratches on your walls, ceilings, and cabinets.
· Inspect the basement perimeter walls for any signs of moisture.
· Inspect and test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace the batteries as necessary.
Summary
Keeping your home in tip-top shape doesn’t take a lot of time and money if you stay on top of your home maintenance items. This list is not all-inclusive, so if you see something that is not right, make sure to address it sooner rather than later. Your pride of ownership will show, and you will feel good knowing that your biggest investment is being properly taken care of.
At HomePro Inspections, our home inspectors are trained to look for and report any potential home maintenance issues they may come across. Any issues are documented in your home inspection report and recommended for resolution by a qualified professional.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN areas. You can contact us today at (507) 202-8942 or utilize our online “Schedule Now” feature to set up an appointment.