As you prepare to set all your clocks ahead an hour and adjust to the new daylight savings time, the shift can be a great opportunity to get your entire home ready for the spring. After making it though another winter, your house could use some routine maintenance to ensure a smooth transition to warmer weather.
Check the gutters
As the snow turns to rain and the morning frost turns to morning dew, it’s important to make sure that your gutters and downspouts are clear and flowing to deal with the increase in water runoff from your roof. Any leaves from the fall that are still caught in the gutters have the potential to clog up the system, causing damage to wood trim that welcomes rot and critters into your attic.
Inspect your roof
Over the course of a winter, your roof faces a lot. Storms bring snow, ice and fallen branches, which can take a toll on a roof over time. So, this spring, be sure to check for any missing or damaged shingles as well as anything else that doesn’t look quite right. Call a roofer if something is out of place; it could save you time and money down the road.
Test the sprinklers
It’s a good idea to check your sprinklers or irrigation system to ensure you are not wasting water or leaving your plants without their life source. Winter can cause damage to these systems, and before you run them all spring and summer, you will want to take a walk around your yard to make sure everything is in proper condition and aiming in the right direction.
Look for imperfections on your driveways and paths
Cold temperatures can be rough on concrete and asphalt. The freezing and thawing can easily cause cracks or shift tiles. It should be easy enough for a professional to fill any cracks and repair them almost as good as new if you catch them quickly.
Check seals around windows and doors
Winter can also damage the seals around your windows and doors. While you no longer have to worry about the cold air that might seep through, any cracks could cost you money by leaking A/C or by allowing water to enter and cause damage.
Clean screens and assess them for damage
Before you throw open the windows to catch a summer breeze, check for any holes or tears in your screens to make sure you won’t be letting any unwanted visitors in with the wind. Also, check that they aren’t covered in dust from spending all winter in the attic and if they are, lay them on a flat surface and scrub with soapy water.
Service the A/C unit
Before turning your A/C on, calling a professional to come clean and service your system is a good idea to help cool your home more efficiently. Annual service helps ensure that the whole system is running smoothly and that you are not wasting resources, which will save you money and extend the system’s lifetime.
As you adjust to the change brought on by daylight savings time, it’s a good idea to take the opportunity prepare your home for the approaching warmer weather. Tackling these simple things around your property could save you a lot of time, money and frustration later in the season.
In addition, don't forget to purchase a Cinch home protection plan, which covers a majority of your built-in home systems and appliances you use most to help save serious time and money on repairs and replacements. Get a quote today!
The information in this article is intended to provide guidance on the proper maintenance and care of systems and appliances in the home. Not all of the topics mentioned are covered by our home warranty or maintenance plans. Please review your home warranty contract carefully to understand your coverage.