Getting your home spring ready:
It’s that time of year again. Time to start making sure your home is ready for spring weather. It may not seem like a big deal, but having your exterior in top shape is key to your homes longevity.
Follow along for quick tips and spring clean up tricks.
Step One:
Snow removal. This is something that needs to be taken care ASAP. Remove snow from your roof, from beside your home and it’s foundation, from the gutters from the driveway and the sidewalk. Keep as much snow as you can away from your home,
especially when it’s melting.
Step Two:
Snow and cold can wreak havoc on your walkway. With warmer weather approaching, take this time to patch cracks and replace loose bricks and pavers. Rent a power washer or purchase a chemical treatment to clean up embedded stains in
concrete, stone or asphalt.
Step Three:
The garage can really take a beating during the cold winter months. No one wants to clean the garage when it’s cold and wet outside. Take some time to open it up and clean the inside of the garage from top to bottom.
Throw away any junk or garbage that has accumulated inside the garage and put everything back in its place. Clean mud and debris off the floor from vehicles and boots and check for cracks in the concrete.
Since you are in there, it would also be a great time to clean your vehicles, especially the undercarriage. Wash away any mud and salt brine that may have accumulated from driving during the winter months. If you live in an area where the roads are salted to prevent ice and snow buildup on the roads, you want to make sure to wash the residue from your vehicles so it doesn’t cause rust and other damage.
Also, once you clean your vehicle you will probably be able to keep your garage cleaner – longer.
Step Four:
Inspect your downspouts and gutters just before the spring rains start to be sure they’re clear of leaves, tree limbs and other debris that might cause problems later on. This can save you a lot of money on repair costs. Did you know that clogging usually occurs at the elbow in a drainage system, where the downspout connects to the gutter. This elbow is relatively easy to remove, take it off and inspect for clogging.
Step Five:
Get your garden ready. Early spring is the best time to plan your garden and start sprouting veggies and herbs in small plastic cups inside under grow lights or in a greenhouse. That way you don’t have to wait until it’s warm outside to plant and your garden gets a head start. It’s also a good time to prep the soil in the garden and put up or repair planters and trellises. Take some time to determine what you want to plant, and where, so you know exactly how to proceed when it’s time to get the garden planted.
All of the above also help with curb appeal. If you are going to sell your home in between Winter and Spring, this is a great way
to ensure curb appeal is at its best.
Gregg Bamford and Ryan Bamford
