Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Copy Link
Homeownership is a wonderful thing, but with it comes responsibilities. The change of seasons calls for home maintenance to do lists to make sure your real estate investment is protected and well cared for. When the seasons shifts, follow these few home tasks.
SPRING
If you can feel a hint of warmth in the air, there are a few tasks around the house that should get done. Spring is a great time to undertake those pesky maintenance jobs that may be on your to-do list. Here are multiple tasks most homeowners should confront during the spring season.
Make sure there’s no mildew. Wander around your property and check that all the vents on your foundation walls are not clogged by debris. You need the air to flow through and under your home to minimize the prospect of mold and mildew, which are detrimental to the health of you and your family.
Check for unwanted tenants. Check under the house for critters that might have taken refuge from Winter without paying rent. You want those uninvited guests outta there!
Watch for water. You should check the quality of drainage around your house. Sometimes, earth moves in heavy rains and storms. Make sure that water is not gathering against timbers or brickwork, as that might cause serious long-term problems.
Paint your problems. The technology in paint these days is remarkable, but Winter can still give it a terrible beating. So, check doors and window frames for chipped or flaking paint. Fix that up now, and you’ll avoid a bigger paint job down the road, or having to replace rotten timbers.
Get your garden equipment serviced. Get in early! Don’t be at the back of the queue to get your lawn mowing and trimming equipment fixed when the grass starts growing again. If your mower has died, consider a battery model. It’s amazing how they’ve improved over the past few years. They are easier to maintain, lighter to push and more environmentally-friendly. Get trimmers and hedge cutters sharpened or serviced too.
SUMMER
- Use nature: A shade tree can be a lovely addition to your entertainment area, but it’s not an immediate solution.
- Shade sail: These meet a variety of budgets, depending on their size and whether they are made of PVC, nylon or polyethylene fabric. They can be cut into squares, triangles and rectangles. Usually cheaper than permanent structures, you’ll still need to install poles to hang them. Shade sails collect dirt and debris and need regular cleaning.
- Cantilever umbrellas: These are cheap and readily available in stores and online. They cover a lot of area without being too imposing. Weigh down the base when installing them by using weight bags designed for the task.
FALL
WINTER
If the onset of winter has caught you out, you’re probably wondering how you can quickly prepare your home for the cold weather so there are no expensive problems down the track. Getting a few jobs checked off your list now will help you avoid some common maintenance problems.
Heat is on. If you have an open fire, your chimney must be cleaned at least once a year to avoid fire risk. And if you have not done so for a year or more, book a service for your Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning system.
Gutter debris. It’s important to clean your gutters annually. Don’t go into winter with them clogged by leaves; water can gather and will damage your gutters.
Branch out. Tree branches falling on your roof can cause thousands of dollars of damage. Take a stroll around your home and check for potential problems. Call an arborist if you see an issue.
Monster mulching. If you like to put the effort into making your garden beautiful, make sure you place at least four inches of mulch on your flower beds to insulate your precious plants from the worst of the winter freeze.
Bursting out. Don’t ignore the pipes in your house. Get them insulated if they run along a wall or in an unheated area. Most hardware shops have several excellent products, and installing them should be a breeze. Your water pipes aren’t the only thing that can burst. If you have an in-ground water system, you’ll face a similar problem. The best solution is to use an air compressor and blow the water out of the system. Air compressors are pretty cheap, and the job is a simple one.
Trust an experienced real estate agent.
Curious about what your home is worth in its current state? With professional guidance, you can make informed decisions that align with your current wants, housing needs, and long-term goals. At ERA First Advantage Realty, we know experience matters. Connect with a local ERA agent today!
For additional things to consider to keep your home protected from season to season, read The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist from Better Homes and Garden.
