Your Spring Exterior Home Maintenance Checklist

It’s time to tackle spring exterior home maintenance once again! Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be painful. Think of it as giving your house some well-deserved attention after a long winter. Let’s look at some essential tasks to keep your home looking its best and functioning flawlessly.

Inspecting the Roof: Your Home’s First Line of Defense

Start with the roof. From the ground, scan for damaged, missing, or curled shingles. Look for signs of granule loss, which can indicate aging or wear. If you’re comfortable and have the proper safety equipment, a closer inspection is even better. Pay attention to flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Damage or deterioration could lead to leaks. If you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to call a professional roofer. They have the expertise to assess and repair issues safely.

Spring Exterior Home Maintenance: Gutters and Downspouts

Next, focus on the gutters and downspouts. Winter can leave behind a mess of debris, including leaves, twigs, and even the occasional rogue tennis ball. Clear out blockages for proper water flow. This prevents water from backing up and potentially damaging your roof, siding, or foundation. Check for leaks, sagging, or damage to the gutters and downspouts. Make sure they are securely attached to the fascia. Extend downspouts away from the foundation to direct water away from the house. This simple step will prevent a lot of potential problems.

Siding and Trim: Giving Your Home a Facelift

Now, take a good look at your siding and trim. Look for cracks, rot, or peeling paint. Vinyl siding can be cleaned with a mild detergent and a soft brush or cloth. Wood siding may require more attention, including scraping and repainting or resealing. Pay close attention to areas where siding meets windows, doors, and corners. These are common spots for water intrusion. Check the trim around windows and doors for signs of rot or damage. Caulk gaps to keep moisture from seeping in. A fresh coat of paint or stain will revitalize your home’s appearance and protect it from the elements.

Check Windows and Doors During Spring Exterior Home Maintenance

Windows and doors are vital for aesthetics and functionality. Check for cracked or broken glass, damaged weather stripping, or loose hardware. Make sure that windows open and close smoothly. Lubricate hinges and locks as needed. Inspect the caulking around windows and doors for cracks or gaps. Recaulking is a simple task that can greatly affect energy efficiency and prevent water damage. For doors, check the weather stripping and threshold for damage. Replace as needed to ensure a tight seal.

Foundation and Hardscaping: Keeping Things Grounded

Inspect the foundation for signs of shifting. Small hairline cracks are often normal, but larger cracks or signs of settling could indicate a more serious issue. Look for water pooling around the foundation. Make sure the ground slopes away from the house to direct water away. Check your walkways, patios, and driveways for cracks or damage. Repair issues to prevent further deterioration and maintain safety. Clean accumulated debris from hardscaping areas.

Landscaping: Adding the Finishing Touches

While not strictly “maintenance,” spring landscaping is essential for curb appeal and protecting your home. Trim back overgrown bushes or trees that are touching the house. This prevents damage to siding and roofs and reduces the risk of pests. Clean up debris from winter storms. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Add some colorful flowers or plants to brighten up your landscape.

By tackling these tasks, you’ll get your home ready for the warmer months and beyond. Regular maintenance is key to preventing future repairs. A little effort now will save you a lot of headaches later.

Spring Exterior Home Maintenance FAQs

My wooden deck looks faded and gray. What’s the best way to restore it?
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the deck using a deck cleaner specifically formulated for wood. After cleaning, allow the deck to dry completely. Then, apply a wood brightener to restore the wood’s natural color. Once dry, apply a high-quality deck stain or sealant to protect the deck from the elements. Choose a stain or sealant with UV protection to prevent further fading.

My concrete driveway has developed some small cracks. Is it better to patch them or resurface the entire driveway?
Patching with a concrete crack filler is usually sufficient for hairline cracks or small surface cracks. If the cracks are wide, deep, or numerous, or if the driveway shows signs of significant deterioration, resurfacing might be necessary. A concrete contractor will assess the damage and provide a recommendation.

My exterior faucets are dripping after winter. How do I fix them?
Worn-out washers or O-rings often cause dripping faucets. First, turn off the water supply to the faucet. Disassemble the faucet and inspect the washers and O-rings. Replace damaged or worn parts. If the problem persists, the faucet may need to be replaced. If you’re not comfortable with plumbing repairs, call a licensed plumber.

Esham Inspections provides home inspection services, mold inspections, and water testing to Maryland and Delaware. Contact us to schedule an appointment.