When you own a home your to-do list can seem overwhelming. Since spring is here it may be time to assess what repairs may be needed on your home. Completing home maintenance tasks during the spring months will ensure the exterior of your home functions better than ever. Below is a checklist to help you spring into your home maintenance.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Even if you cleaned all your gutters in the fall, it’s a good idea to complete this task again in the spring. Especially after some of the big rains we have had on the Central Coast. It’s important to make sure the gutters haven’t pulled away from the house and check for loose granules in the bottom of the gutters. This may indicate that your roof is coming to the end of its lifespan and may need to be replaced.
Replace Damaged Siding
When siding is rotten or damaged, it can let air, water and debris into your home and can cause the materials around it to decay prematurely. Repairing or replacing damaged siding can prevent larger problems, saving you money in the future.
Inspect the Roof for Damage
Spring is one of the best times to inspect the roof. Look for shingles that are missing, curled or damaged. We suggest you inspect the roof from inside the attic first, looking for any light that penetrates through the rafters, and then move to the exterior. Then you can check the roof itself for any noticeable damage. You can do this easily and safely from the ground with a pair of binoculars. Remember, inspecting the roof on your own can be dangerous so contacting a local roofing professional like Williams Roofing Company may be your best option.
Examine the Chimney
Examine the exterior of the chimney for signs of damage. Make sure the flashing around the chimney is not bent or damaged. Have the flue cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep.
Check Weather-stripping
If the weather-stripping around your windows and doors is brittle or cracked, it should be replaced. Good weather-stripping will reduce drafts as well as block any energy loss.
Trim Overgrown Landscaping
It’s important to trim shrubs and other plants before the new growth begins in the spring. Experts agree that you should avoid letting vines grow directly on the house as they can damage gutters, roof and provide a “ladder” for rodents.
Repair Paint
Pressure wash your home’s exterior and look for any chips in the paint. Keep painted surfaces in good repair by scraping off any chipped and peeling paint and spot painting exposed surfaces. Exposed wood can rot, so give worn areas a new coat of paint.
Let Your Home Breathe
Inadequate ventilation can cause mold, and a lot of other issues with your roof. As the moisture in your home rises to the attic, if it can’t get out, it will start to build up and condense, causing problems throughout your home. When you have your roof inspection this year, have the inside of your attic and your vents inspected to guarantee that your house is moving air as it should. Also check your exhaust and intake vents to make sure they’re free and clear of all leaves, sticks and seeds.
Dealing with these maintenance tips in a timely manner will allow your home and roof to stand strong through the next season of weather challenges – and for many years to come.