Flowers are blooming, bees are buzzing, and warmer weather is finally arriving. Spring is here! And you know what that means – it’s time to start thinking about your home’s annual spring maintenance.
After being cooped up indoors all winter, spring is a great time to get things in order—both inside and outside your home. Ready to tackle your to-do list? America’s Preferred Home Warranty is here to help you do your thing this spring.
STEP 1: Create or download a checklist
Having a simple checklist on paper (or your device) can help you stay focused on your “mission” to keep your home—and the systems and appliances you count on every day—running safely and efficiently.
An added bonus is the feeling of accomplishment you get as seasonal tasks are completed!
If you need help with your list, download our Spring Home Maintenance Checklist PDF to get started.
STEP 2: Exterior home maintenance checklist
Inspecting and maintaining these areas found on the exterior of your home can help you avoid the common issues that lead to major repairs.
- Check your driveway and walkways for damage to your concrete or asphalt
- Inspect your roof for loose, cracked, or missing shingles
- Clean and repair gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and water damage
- Look for termites and other pests that typically swarm homes in springtime
- Clean around your air conditioner by removing leaves, sticks, and other debris
- Inspect your chimney for any brick, stone, or other obvious masonry issues
- Examine your home’s foundation and concrete slabs for cracks or movement
- Check outside faucets and hoses for leaks, cracks, and freeze damage
- Apply a sealant to any minor cracks and chips in your home’s exterior masonry
- Replace rotted siding or trim with new material to prevent further damage
- Pressure wash deck and outdoor furniture to remove dust, mold, and other allergens
- Check window exteriors for damaged or missing glass, caulk, or weather stripping
- Repair or replace damaged window screens to keep pests from entering your home
- Assess your sprinkler system to locate leaks or any missing or damaged sprinkler heads
STEP 3: Lawn and garden maintenance checklist
Caring for your lawn and garden can help enhance your home’s curb appeal, keep pests away, and use water more effectively.
Spring lawn care
- Rake your yard to remove dead grass, leaves, twigs, and other lawn debris
- Aerate your lawn to help your grass get more water, air, and nutrients for growth
- Fertilize your grass after 2-3 lawn mowing cycles or 2-3 weeks after it starts greening
- Water your lawn up to one inch per day in the early morning hours for a green lawn
- Mow your lawn when it’s dry and only remove the top one-third of your grass blades
Spring garden care
- Clean out garden and flower beds to prepare the soil for the upcoming year
- Test your soil bed every 3-5 years to see what nutrients it might be missing
- Add a 1- to 2-inch layer of compost or fertilizer to make your soil bed healthy
- Prune trees and shrubs whose limbs were damaged over the winter; avoid pruning shrubs or plants that flower in the spring
- Replace trellises and stakes you put away for winter so your new plants can grow!
STEP 4: Interior home maintenance checklist
Maintaining your home’s systems and appliances can improve their lifespan and efficiency, helping you prevent expensive breakdowns and replacements.
- Maintain your HVAC system to prevent expensive repairs and replacements; change your HVAC air filters every 30-90 days
- Inspect your home’s plumbing for leaks, clogs, and damaged fittings or faucets
- Clean and maintain your garbage disposal to prevent future plumbing issues
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries as needed
- Maintain your refrigerator every six months to maximize its efficiency and longevity
- Inspect your washer and dryer for leaks, damaged hoses, or safety hazards
- Maintain your gas or electric water heater every six months
- Check your water softener for leaks and other issues that could impact water quality
- Get your pool and jetted tub ready for warmer weather
- Maintain your oven to help this appliance last longer and prevent fire hazards
- Clean your microwave to keep it sanitary and improve its efficiency
- Check your garage door to ensure it is working safely and properly
- Clean your dishwasher to reduce water leaks and improve its effectiveness
Checklist completed!
Once you’re done, you should have a more efficient, safe, and comfortable home just in time for summer!
Everything you can do to make your house more livable not only benefits everyone in your home: Experts say that regular maintenance can even make your home more valuable.
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