With the snow gone and longer days, the promise of tulips and BBQs is real! Before bringing out the power-washer, beautifying the planters and fluffing the patio cushions, focus on some boring but essential maintenance basics. Making sure your home and property not only looks good, but is damage-free, paves the way for safe outdoor enjoyment…this spring and for years to come! *
🏠 Roof & Chimney
o Look for missing, curled, or cracked shingles (freeze–thaw cycles loosen them).
o Check for loose flashing around vents and chimneys.
o Inspect for icicle damage along roof edges.
o Make sure the chimney cap is intact and no bricks or mortar cracked over winter.
💧 Gutters & Downspouts
o Clean out leaves, twigs, and ice debris.
o Ensure downspouts are still attached and directing water away from the foundation.
o Check for sagging gutters or leaks at joints.
🚪 Siding, Windows, & Doors
o Look for cracked siding, peeling paint, gaps in caulking
o Reseal windows if necessary to prevent summer humidity and pests.
o Replace draft strips that are dried or cracked.
🚶🏻Foundation
Walk around the entire house:
o Check for new cracks
o Examine soil erosion near the house
o Investigate signs of water pooling
🧱 Driveway, Walkways, Patios & Hardscape
o Prevent weed growth and hazards by checking asphalt, cement, gravel and stone surfaces for:
o Cracks caused by freeze-thaw.
o Potholes or deepening sink holes.
o Plow damage such as cracked curbs and chipped Belgium block.
o Clean up excess salt & sand to clear the way for healthy plants and clean-looking concrete.
o Sweep, hose off and clean the edging of front and back steps.
o Identify missing grout or uneven stones on walkways cause by heaving.
Decks
o Check for rotting or jutting boards.
o Hammer down loose or protruding nails.
o Ensure railings are strong and secure.
🌳 Trees
o Remove large branches from winter storms or blizzards.
o Check trees for split limbs, hanging branches, leaning trunks.
o It is typically easiest to trim trees prior to spring growth but consult a qualified arborist for optimal timing on ornamental shrubs and bushes such azaleas, rhododendrons and hydrangeas.
🖼️ Lawn
o Rake up leaves, sticks and winter debris to prevent mold and dead patches.
o Check yard areas for pooled water and blocked drains
Attic Inspection
o On a sunny day, look for indications of roof leaks including:
o Water stains on wood
o Wet insulation
o Mold or mildew
o Daylight showing through the roof
o Prevent next year’s ice dams (and flood damage) by checking the edges of the roof eaves for dark stains or rotting wood
o Look for signs of critters including droppings, shredded insulation, nesting materials and (uh oh!) scratching noises. Seal entry points if found.
🔥 Fireplace
Before warm weather arrives:
o Sweep out ash and soot.
o Check the damper opens and closes properly.
o Look for cracked bricks or loose mortar inside the chimney.
o If you used it heavily in winter, a professional chimney cleaning is advised.
o Test your CO and smoke detectors and replace old batteries.
🌬️ Airing Out
After months of sealed winter air, reduce dust, allergens and odors:
o Open windows on mild days.
o Let fresh air circulate through rooms.
o Clean or replace HVAC filters.
🐜 Pest Prevention
Spring is when pests wake up.
o Seal entry points (gaps around pipes, holes in siding, and openings in foundations) before ants or other insects make their way in.
o Repair torn screens before replacing your storm doors and opening windows.
🕯️ Saying “Adieu” to Winter
o Swap winter candles/scents (pine, cinnamon) for lighter spring scents (citrus, floral, linen).
o Wash blankets and winter textiles.
o Put away heavy throws and winter decor.
o Clean windows to let in more sunlight.
*If you’re a DIY-er and have the time, you can probably handle many of these end-of-season tasks. However, for assessments and fixes that you’re not too sure about, enlist the expertise of licensed and insured professionals. Need some spring ideas and referrals? Just ask Susan!
