Springtime Checklist for Home Exterior
Consumer Reports (CR) is one of my favorite magazines. We use it to research most major products before buying, plus it often has helpful articles on issues relating to shopping and home improvement. I recently ran across a CR article online, Spring Checklist for the Home which got me thinking about areas to inspect as spring approaches. It’s important to check them early to avoid minor problems becoming major problems. CR has some great recommendation and I expand on each with a few suggestions of my own.
Inspect Deck for Hazards
While inspecting your deck, look for water stains close to the house. Water can weaken the deck’s attachment to the home, making your deck an unsafe place. If there is any question, CR recommends contacting a professional. It is also important to check for mold and mildew. It is a good idea to pressure wash your deck yearly and re-apply stain to protect the wood as needed. Also, remember to clear dried leaves from underneath your deck – grilling is a fun spring activity, but hot coals from a grill can cause the leaves, and subsequently your house, to catch fire.
Clean Dirty Air Conditioner
Clean your outdoor air conditioning unit, clearing away debris. Use a vacuum or power blower to safely clear leaves and other debris without damaging the unit. Remove the grille and vacuum the condenser coils. Dirty coils results in a less efficient air conditioner. Double check that everything is working properly. Spring is a busy time for repairmen, so check it early to avoid a long wait.
Check for Foundation Fissures
CR reminds us that small cracks in the foundation are no cause for immediate alarm, but a good time to keep an eye on things. They recommend marking the cracks with tape and re-checking them in a month or two to see if they have grown. If so, contact a structural engineer about how to fix the problem. For the DIY-ers, Polyurethane caulk is recommended for small cracks. If you see cracks, keep an eye out for water pooling at the foundation. This could be the result of clogged gutters.
Clogged Gutters and Downspouts
While not the most fun, it is important to clean leaves and debris out of your gutters. Also make sure that leaders extend 5 ft away from the house. Check your downspouts too. If one is clogged, try using the garden hose to get things moving. Don’t use too much pressure as gutters aren’t designed for that. If the hose doesn’t work you can also try a small plumber’s snake.
Inspect Roof Shingles
Check for leaks and water stains by inspecting the attic, rafters, ceilings, and the siding under roof eaves. Also inspect your shingles for cracks, curls, or any missing pieces. Shingles should be able to withstand light pressure. If they break, it’s time to take actions before a leak occurs. If you are looking for a professional in the Baltimore area, check out our review of Columbia Roofers.
Look for Weakened Trees
Inspect branches and roots to ensure the integrity of the tree. Many builders will plant trees that grow quickly but often have shallow root systems. These trees look beautiful but can’t withstand heavy winds. That makes regular tree pruning even more important. Check out our helpful article on tree trimming and pruning.
What do you think? Anything to add to the spring checklist?
Image courtesy of Robert S. Donovan
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2 Responses to Springtime Checklist for Home Exterior
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April 22nd, 2009 12:58 pm
As long as you’re checking everything might as well check furnace and ac filters, and change fire alarm batteries too.
April 22nd, 2009 10:52 pm
All good points but the leaders and gutters cannot be over emphasized. Time after time I read about someone in the home repair forums who doesn’t maintain leaders and gutters and winds up with water in the basement which can be so damaging.