Ready, Set, Refresh: Your Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

As the chill of winter slips away and nature begins to bloom, it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your home through a thorough spring refresh. Whether you’re preparing your home for the enjoyment of the upcoming season & summer months ahead or gearing up to put it on the market, spring maintenance plays a pivotal role in ensuring your home is in top condition. From deep cleaning to essential checks and repairs, taking proactive steps now will not only enhance your living experience but also increase the appeal and value of your property. We’ve put together your essential checklist for spring maintenance – it’s time for a refresh!

Your Essential Spring Maintenance Checklist:

1. Spring Cleaning: Spring cleaning is all about restoring freshness to your living spaces. In addition to your regular cleaning tasks, take the time to tackle areas that often get overlooked:

• Give blinds, curtains, windows, and screens a nice scrub or wash to get rid of dust buildup for a fresher feeling. 
• Consider deep cleaning appliances, including your refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher – both inside and out!
• Don’t forget to give your carpets, baseboards & upholstery a thorough clean. A steam cleaner can help you get stubborn stains and marks out.

Break down your spring cleaning tasks into manageable chunks and create a checklist to stay organized. A clean house is one of the easiest ways to help your home feel fresh and ready for spring!

2. Declutter: This is the perfect time to declutter and streamline your living spaces. Take a critical look at your belongings and identify items that you no longer need or use. Donate or discard items that are taking up valuable space and contributing to clutter. Clearing out excess clutter not only creates a more visually appealing environment but also promotes a sense of calm and tranquillity in your home.

Start small by focusing on one area at a time, such as a closet or pantry. Use storage solutions like bins, baskets, and shelving to keep belongings organized and easily accessible.

3. Attic and Roof Inspection: With the arrival of spring, it’s essential to check your attic and roof for any signs of leaks, water damage, or unwanted critters. Examine the roof for missing or damaged shingles, as well as any areas of potential weakness; consider hiring a professional roofing contractor for a more thorough inspection, especially if your roof is difficult to access or if you suspect significant damage.
4. Basement Inspection: Don’t overlook the basement when conducting your spring maintenance checks. Inspect the walls for cracks or signs of water infiltration. Check for leaks around pipes, windows, and doors. Ensure that your sump pump is in good working condition and ready to handle any potential flooding. Consider installing a dehumidifier to control moisture levels and prevent mould growth.
5. Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Check: Safety should always be a top priority in your home. Take the time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace batteries as needed and consider upgrading to newer models for enhanced safety features. Make sure you have a sufficient number of alarms installed throughout your home, including in bedrooms, hallways, and on each level.
6. Air Conditioning Maintenance: Before the summer heat arrives, take the opportunity to ensure that your air conditioning system is in good working order. Change air filters, if needed, to improve air quality and efficiency. When it gets hot outside, you’ll be thankful that you took this step! Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your air conditioning system and prevent costly repairs down the line. If you haven’t already done so, now is a great time to think about investing in a smart thermostat to optimize energy usage and keep your home comfortable year-round.

7. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clearing debris from your gutters and downspouts is essential to prevent water damage to your home’s exterior. Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris that may have accumulated over the winter months. Ensure that downspouts are pointed away from your house to direct water away from the foundation. If you want to make things easier, think about installing gutter guards to minimize debris buildup and reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning in the future.

8. Foundation Inspection: Your home’s foundation is its literal support system, so it’s crucial to keep it in good condition. Inspect the foundation for any cracks or signs of damage, as these can lead to water infiltration and structural issues.
9. Check Window and Door Seals: Proper seals around windows and doors are necessary for energy efficiency and maintaining indoor comfort. Inspect the seals for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracking or peeling. Re-caulk as needed to ensure a tight seal and replace damaged screens to keep pests out while allowing fresh air in.
10. Garage Door Maintenance: Your garage door plays a significant role in your home’s curb appeal and security. Check that it’s operating smoothly and inspect for any signs of wear or damage. Clean dirt and dust from the doors and windows to keep them in good condition and lubricate hinges, springs, and rollers regularly for smooth operation.
11. Fireplace and Chimney Inspection: If you have a fireplace, spring is the perfect time to ensure it’s in safe and working condition. Check for any debris or obstructions in the chimney and inspect the fireplace for signs of damage or wear. Consider scheduling a professional chimney sweep to remove creosote buildup and ensure proper ventilation. 
12. Check Your Fence and Deck: Your outdoor living spaces deserve attention during spring maintenance. Inspect your fence and deck for any damage, such as rotting wood, loose boards, or missing fasteners. Stain or seal the wood as needed to protect it from the elements and keep it looking its best.

8. Check Driveway & Walkways: Cracks and damage to your driveway and walkways can worsen over time if left unchecked. Inspect these areas for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces. Repair minor cracks and damage with a concrete patching compound to prevent water infiltration and extend the life of your driveway and walkways and turn to the pros if it’s time for a full update.
9. Check Outdoor Lights and Motion Sensors: Outdoor lighting enhances safety and security around your home. Check your outdoor lights and motion sensors for proper operation and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Clean the light fixtures to ensure optimal brightness and visibility.
10. Landscaping: Ready to rejuvenate your outdoor space? Mow the lawn, trim trees and bushes, and clear out any dead growth. Consider planting new flowers or shrubs to add pops of colour to your garden beds – just make sure to pay attention to timing to ensure they survive and are ready for optimal growth.
11. Clean Your Barbecue: Get your grill ready for the upcoming barbecue season by giving it a thorough cleaning. Scrub the grates and interior surfaces to remove any built-up grease and residue. Check the propane tank level and refill as needed to ensure you’re ready for outdoor cooking fun.
12. Set Up Your Outdoor Space: Finally, as the weather warms up, it’s time to transition your outdoor space for enjoyment in the sun. Clean and inspect your outdoor furniture, cushions, and accessories. Arrange your furniture to create inviting seating areas and add decorative touches to enhance your outdoor living experience. Don’t forget to add shade options, such as umbrellas or awnings, to provide relief from the sun and make your outdoor space more comfortable.

By following this comprehensive checklist for spring maintenance, you can ensure that your home is ready to embrace the vibrant season ahead. Taking proactive steps now will not only enhance your living experience but also increase the appeal and value of your property.

And when the time comes to sell your home, remember that our team at Coldwell Banker Community Professionals is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience for you and your potential buyers. If you need any help deciding on where to focus your maintenance efforts for the best results, get in touch – our team can help you make choices that will get you the best returns!