How to Get Your Home Ready for Spring

The month of March certainly came in like a lion and is going out like a lamb, which means warmer weather is right around the corner. You’re probably getting ready to put away your winter coat, planning out what to plant in your garden, and dusting off those old rain boots, but don’t forget about your home. Here are some tips from our home improvement experts for how to get your home ready for the season:

Clean off Your Air Conditioner

If your outdoor air conditioning unit isn’t covered, it has probably collected a good amount of dust and debris throughout the winter. Before you start using it, give it a good cleaning by washing the fins with a hose. You’ll not only extend its lifespan, you’ll increase its efficiency.

Check Your Gutters

Clogged gutters can be problematic. When spring rain comes around, a clogged gutter won’t efficiently redirect it away from your home. This could lead to water backups and leaks inside your home. If the problem isn’t addressed, (we suggest calling our gutter experts), you could face water damage and/or mold growth.

Replace Your HVAC Filter

Allergy season is coming, and it’s important to start the spring with a fresh HVAC filter. Invest in a good filter that traps as much dirt, dust, pollen, and allergens as possible to keep your HVAC system running well and your home’s air clean.

Check Your Screens

With every spring season comes bugs, so before you open your windows to let the cool breeze flow through, check to make sure your window screens don’t have any holes in them. If they do, patch them up or replace the screens. Also make sure your screens are tightly fastened. If they’re not, they can be ruined by strong winds.

Re-Stain Your Deck/Porch

Our home improvement experts will tell you that spring is a great time to re-stain your deck or porch. Cold temperatures, ice, and snow can make the wood’s color look drab and dreary, so put a little life back into it. Plus, a freshly stained deck or porch will look great with all of the bright colors of the season.

Inspect the Exterior

Chances are you didn’t spend a lot of time outside during the winter. Do your home a favor and inspect its exterior, including the foundation and the roof. This past winter was a rough one, and it’s possible it caused cracks, heaves, deterioration, missing shingles, or other issues. If you find a problem, don’t hesitate to call the home improvement experts at P.J. Fitzpatrick.