4 Things to Add to Your Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

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As you begin getting your home ready for the warm season, don’t forget to perform the necessary tasks on the exterior of your home in addition to the interior. Here are several important things you should be sure to do as we transition from winter to spring. By going through this spring home maintenance checklist, you’ll preserve the quality and value of your home.

 

1. Inspect Your Roof

Stand outside and inspect your roof from the ground, looking up through binoculars (if you have them) to search for any signs of damage or age. When looking at your roof’s condition, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Are there any missing shingles?
  • Are any shingles curled or warped?
  • Are shingles visibly losing granules?
  • Is all the flashing still intact?
  • Does the roof sag?
  • Is moss or algae growing on the roof?

Also consider these questions:

How old is your roof? If it’s nearing the end of its life expectancy, which is typically 15-20 years for traditional asphalt roofs, it’s time to consider your roof replacement options.

Should you repair or replace your damaged roof? We have a roofing guide to help you determine the answer to this question, which you can download for free by clicking on the button below. We also have several other great blog posts addressing this very issue on our website.

Should You Replace Your Roof? Find Out with Our Free Guide!

 

2. Look Inside Your Attic

Check your attic for any signs of leaks. If you see any moisture, mold, discoloration, rot, or damaged insulation, you may have a leak in your roof. Call your local roofing contractor to come out and pinpoint the leaks and repair your roof. You can also add to or replace the insulation in your attic if necessary. We recommend blown-in insulation for most homeowners. It's easy and quick to install, has a very high R-value (ability to resist heat flow), settles very little over time, and is non-corrosive as well as fire and moisture-resistant.

 

3. Check Gutters and Downspouts

Make sure debris isn’t clogging up your gutters or downspouts. They should be clean and ready to do their jobs effectively when the rain hits. Also check for any damage that may have been done over the winter. Ice dams can build up at a roof's edge in the winter and sometimes cause gutters to crack or be forced out of place. If you noticed ice dams on your home over the winter, the spring is a good time to seal air leaks in the attic and add insulation to prevent them from recurring in the future.

Consider your home's foundation. During the rainy season, a lot of people experience leaking and flooding problems, especially in the basement. This is another reason to inspect your gutters and downspouts. Make sure they are working effectively and positioned properly to transport rain water away from your home's foundation.

 

4. Wash Your Windows

Spring is the perfect time to give your windows and screens a good washing. This will make your home feel cleaner and fresher and give you a clear view of your yard. Many homeowners notice problems with their windows while washing them or opening them for the first time in the spring to let in the fresh air. 

If your windows are difficult to open, worn down, or getting old, you may want to consider upgrading with replacement windows. Window replacement can make a major difference in the overall look and feel of your home. You can choose from several types of windows (casement, single hung, double hung, bay, slider, etc.) and brands so you can find the windows that are right for your lifestyle.

Perhaps your windows only need small repairs, such as improving window seals, gaskets, caulking, or weatherstripping. These are inexpensive fixes and can make your windows much more energy efficient. Window wrap is available and can be installed professionally to seal any air leaks, prevent water infiltration, and reduce street noise.

 

Be sure to check out our new eBook: Springing into the Iowa Summer: Top 3 Home Improvement Concerns. It includes great information about your roof, siding, and windows. Click the button below to download it for free!

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If you need roofing and insulation services in Ankeny, Ames, Huxley, or Story County, contact Hedrick Construction.

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