How to Prepare Your Home for Spring

By Kyle Cooper, Allstate Agency Owner The Cooper Agency

Spring can be a great time to clear out clutter and start fresh. But, while you’re organizing closets and cleaning out cabinets, don’t forget to also tackle some basic home maintenance. These checklists may help make it easier to tackle spring home maintenance projects.

Rough winter weather can leave behind damage to your home’s roof or gutters and downspouts. Here are some tips to get a head start:

Check gutters for damage: Inspect your gutter system for damage, such as holes or cracks that may have been caused by freezing and thawing of ice.

Check for roof damage: Visually check the condition of your roof by looking for any damaged or missing shingles, says the III. It may also be a good idea to check your attic for any signs of leaks or moisture. If you find any problems, you’ll want to have them repaired — it’d also be a good idea to contact your insurance agent to see if your homeowner’s policy might help cover repairs.

Tip: Remember to use caution when working on your gutters or roof, or use a local professional.

Siding: Take a walk around your house and look for any siding damage. Be sure to repair any pieces of siding that are extremely weathered or cracking. If you have painted wood siding, peeling or loose paint should be scraped off, sanded and repainted.

Windows: Check for peeling or cracked caulk around the seals and repair as necessary. Repair or replace any screens that have holes to help prevent bugs from entering your home, and ensure winter wind hasn’t loosened any screens from their fasteners.

Deck: Consider resealing your deck if it’s showing a lot of age — HomeAdvisor states that wood decks should be treated every six years at a minimum. You should also ensure there aren’t any deteriorating or loose boards.

Foundation: If you have a brick home, inspect the mortar and see if any cracks need to be repaired. If you have a basement, inspect the walls and floor for cracks or other damage. If you can fit a nickel into any cracks, you may want to have a professional inspect the area to determine if repairs are necessary.

By setting aside time to get your home’s exterior ready for spring, you can ensure any potential issues following the winter season have been remedied — giving you more time to enjoy the new season ahead.