Spring has arrived! The birds are chirping, and the flowers are blooming, but your house looks a little worse for wear after a long winter. Don’t worry, every northern homeowner experiences this when the thaw hits. This is the perfect time to give your home’s exterior the TLC it deserves. These spring exterior home maintenance tasks will make your house shine and protect it from the elements for the year ahead.
Start with a Thorough Inspection
Before making any repairs, inspect your home. Walk around your property, noting anything that looks damaged, worn, or out of place. Pay close attention to the roof, siding, windows, doors, foundation, and gutters. Look for cracked paint, loose shingles, damaged flashing, rotted wood, and signs of pests. The sooner issues are spotted, the easier and less costly they are to fix.
Clear Gutters and Downspouts During Spring Exterior Home Maintenance
Winter storms can wreak havoc on gutters. Leaves, debris, and even ice dams can clog them, preventing proper drainage. Clogged gutters lead to water damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. So, grab a ladder, gloves, and a trowel, and clear out all the debris. Confirm that the downspouts are clear and that water is flowing away from your foundation. Install gutter guards to minimize future clogs.
Siding and Paint
Siding protects your home from the elements, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. Check for cracks, holes, or rot. Vinyl siding can be cleaned with a mild detergent and a soft brush or pressure washer (on a low setting). Wood siding may need to be repainted or stained. If you spot peeling or blistering paint, it’s a sign to prep and repaint. This is also a fantastic time to assess the caulking around windows and doors. Replace cracked or dried-out caulk to prevent water infiltration. A fresh coat of paint or stain will dramatically improve your home’s curb appeal and provide an extra layer of protection.
Spring Exterior Home Maintenance: Check Your Roof and Foundation
The roof is your home’s first line of defense against wind and rain. Inspect it for damaged or missing shingles, cracked flashing, and signs of leaks. If you’re not comfortable climbing onto the roof, hire a professional. Addressing roof issues promptly will prevent future repairs. Next, check your foundation for cracks. Small cracks can be sealed with caulk, but larger cracks may indicate a more serious problem and require professional attention. Making sure your foundation is solid is vital for the structural integrity of your home.
Windows and Doors
Windows and doors play a crucial role in energy efficiency. Check for drafts and confirm that the weather stripping is intact. Clean the windows inside and out to let in more sunlight. Inspect door frames for rot and make sure the doors close properly. Maintenance here will make a big difference in comfort and energy savings.
Yard and Landscaping
While focusing on the house, don’t neglect the landscape. Trim back overgrown bushes or trees that are touching the house. This will prevent damage to the siding and roof. Be sure that the soil slopes away from the foundation to prevent water pooling. Check for signs of pests or damage to your yard. A healthy landscape complements a well-maintained home.
By tackling these spring exterior maintenance tasks, your home will be ready for whatever the season brings. It’s an investment in your home’s longevity and a boost to your curb appeal.
Spring Exterior Home Maintenance FAQs
How often should I clean my gutters?
Clean your gutters at least twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. If you live in an area with many trees, you may need to clean them more frequently.
Can I pressure wash my vinyl siding?
Yes, but use a low-pressure setting and a wide nozzle to avoid damaging the siding. Keep the nozzle at a safe distance and test a small area first.
How do I know if I need a new roof?
Signs that you may need a new roof include missing or damaged shingles, leaks in the attic, and excessive granule loss from shingles. If your roof is over 20 years old, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a professional.
What type of caulk should I use for exterior repairs?
Use a high-quality exterior-grade caulk that is designed to withstand weather conditions. Silicone or polyurethane caulk are good choices.
Should I hire a professional for all these tasks?
Some tasks, such as cleaning gutters and minor siding repairs, can be done yourself. For more complex tasks like roof repairs or foundation work, it’s best to hire a qualified professional.
Inspection Services of Wisconsin offers home inspections in Northeast and South Central Wisconsin. Contact us to request our services.