HOME
Spring Maintenance Checklist
This list of small fixes can help homeowners prevent big repair bills.
By Bryan Baeumler
THE WARMER DAYS OF SPRING are the right time to make sure your home hasn’t been affected by below-zero temperatures, moisture buildup or storm damage from the ice and snow of winter. As a contractor, home builder and HGTV host of several television shows, including House of Bryan and Disaster DIY, I’ve seen and had to repair many homes after the effects of winter. This checklist of small fixes can help prevent large bills for costly home repairs or insurance claims.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF BRYAN BAEUMLER
Removing debris and leaves from your gutters should be part of your spring maintenance routine, according to contractor, home builder and HGTV host Bryan Baeumler. | PHOTO: JJ GOUIN/ADOBE STOCK
Check the deck for any damaged, rotten or loose boards, and have it repaired as needed to avoid injury or issues. | PHOTO: TAB62/ADOBE STOCK
WHAT TO CHECK: OUTDOORS
Gutters and Downspouts Remove debris such as leaves and dirt from your gutters and downspouts. A water blockage can cause water leaks or overflowing and lead to damaged shingles, soffits (the ventilated underside of the roof’s overhang) and even impact the foundation.
Roof Check out the roof. Have any damaged or missing shingles repaired or replaced. This prevents water leakage and damage within your home.
Deck Examine the deck to see if there are any warped or loose boards. Check out any stairs leading from the deck. Replacing or fixing rotting boards will prevent injury. Update paint or stain if any areas are faded or peeling to keep your deck looking good.
Windows and Screens Note any areas where there may be drafts and any windows or screens that have to be replaced or repaired. Re-caulking can eliminate drafts and ensure you’re keeping your home energy-efficient.
Driveway and Pathways Frozen ground can cause shifts in your landscaping and patios, so look for cracks in the driveway and walkways. If unattended, these cracks can expand, resulting in more expensive repairs and possible injury.
Sprinkler System and Outdoor Water Sources Check the water pressure and note if there are any leaks or cracks to repair before gardening season begins.
Cleaning out dryer vents helps your appliance function better and reduces the risk of a fire. | PHOTO: BENJAMIN CLAPP/ADOBE STOCK
WHAT TO CHECK: INDOORS
Basement Do a walk-through of your mechanical room. Make sure the furnace is in fine working order and has a clean filter before putting it “to sleep” for the season. Also check the water heater for damage or rust — if there are issues present, get it serviced before you end up with a flood.
Washer and Dryer Clean your dryer vents. Dirty and clogged vents pose a fire risk. Lint buildup reduces airflow, which can lead to overheating. When that happens, you risk having the lint catch fire.
Fireplace Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned. A gas fireplace needs an annual inspection to ensure equipment is operating properly. A wood-burning fireplace needs the chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional. With each fire, smoke travels through the chimney, depositing creosote — a byproduct of burnt wood — which is highly flammable and can create a fire hazard. It’s a good time to have it checked and cleaned to avoid a potentially dangerous buildup or blockage. CAA
Spring Maintenance Checklist
Go through the Spring Maintenance Checklist. Ensure you catch and fix the small problems before they become major issues.
THE WARMER DAYS OF SPRING are the right time to make sure your home hasn’t been affected by below-zero temperatures, moisture buildup or storm damage from the ice and snow of winter. As a contractor, home builder and HGTV host of several television shows, including House of Bryan and Disaster DIY, I’ve seen and had to repair many homes after the effects of winter. This checklist of small fixes can help prevent large bills for costly home repairs or insurance claims.
PHOTO: COURTESY OF BRYAN BAEUMLER