Spring has (almost) sprung! We are now entering the warmer season where everything blooms once again. But what does that mean in regard to your home?
It is imperative to keep your home in tip-top shape. This includes practicing the proper spring home maintenance—or what most refer to as “spring cleaning”.
Here are the top tips of the pros to prepare your home for spring:
Clean Your Windows
Springtime means experiencing longer hours and more light. Therefore, it is essential to clean your windows. And yes, even your screens!
To clean the exterior side of the windows, this is the best recipe:
white vinegar,
dish soap, and
water
This combination effectively breaks through the winter grime build-up. You should get a nice lather as you clean the dirt and let more natural light in.
To clean your screens, you can use the same solution—but put it into a spray bottle. It is easiest if you remove your screens before cleaning them. You can use a hose to rinse off the screens, letting them air dry in the warming weather.
Service Your Air Conditioning Unit
Whether you have a wall unit, split unit, or central air, it is time for its check-up! You must prepare ahead of time before the grueling heat of summer is upon us. Call in the professionals to service your air conditioners and prepare the A/C for blasting that cold, refreshing air.
While the professionals are checking your systems, ask them to check your ducts and vents to ensure there are no obstructions or blockages. These can lead to a huge problem—and are quite costly—down the road.
Replace Your Filters
Many people forget filters must be replaced. It is vital to replace your home’s air filters around once every three months. Yes, that often!
Air filters serve to filter out harmful bacteria, chemicals, and substances found in the air—that you are breathing in. The dirtier your filters, the more dirt you are inhaling. Depending upon your surroundings, you may need to replace your filters more than once a month—including if you have pets or allergy sufferers in the home.
Get Rid of the Clutter
“Spring cleaning” is notorious for removing excess items you no longer need or want. Go through your home and garage and make a pile for donation and a pile for garbage. Donate anything that is still in good condition. Anything that isn’t, simply throw away. Clutter adds more stress to your life!
A good rule of thumb is that if you haven’t used it during the last year, odds are you will not be using it this new year—so it’s time to move on from it. Revitalize your living space which allows for more open circulation. Create a clean, open, welcoming environment in which to relax.
A great insight: Clutter on the outside may mean cluttered on the inside!
Check the Exterior
Leaves have months to build up during the fall and winter seasons. Either you or a professional can safely use a ladder and remove the debris that can clog your gutters. Next, ensure you have no holes in your roof or any missing shingles.
Dirty house? You can clean its exterior with a mild soap and water mixture to remove stains from winter’s past. Lastly, check your windows to ensure they haven’t shifted from inclement winter weather.
Seal the Cracks
Winter months can be harsh on your home. It’s vital to check your windows and doors for any new drafts or openings. The cool air can easily escape through the cracks—and you will literally pay for it with the outrageous electric bill that is sure to follow.
Properly seal any cracks or replace windows and/or their frames to ensure proper insulation. Plugging any holes can also prevent any unwanted critters from making their way into your home. Add door sweeps under the door to further insulate your home and keep the cool air inside.
Fix Up Your Outdoors
Do you have a sitting area outside? Spruce it up with new, inviting décor. Throw in a new table and chairs with colorful pads and add in a BBQ.
Remove any debris leftover from the winter storms and trim back any trees and shrubs on your property. Get rid of any lingering dead grass by cutting git short and replanting a new layer of topsoil. If you need to reseed for new grass, now is the time before it is too hot.
If you have a deck or patio area, power washing is a great option to breathe new life into your concrete, wooden deck, or pavers. Sweep to remove excess dirt and reset your furniture for you and your guests. These clean visuals create an appealing place to relax as the warmer months roll in.
Are you ready for spring to come? These tips will prepare both the inside and outside of your home as we welcome the beautiful warmer months.
