Winter isn’t always the kindest to homes. The low temperatures and harsh weather can cause all kinds of damage to your home, leaving it needing some TLC by spring. As the temperatures begin to climb again and the days get longer, it’s a good time to take stock and repair any damage caused by the season – ensuring your home is ready for summer.
Here are eight house jobs to do once winter is over.
1. Clear your gutters
Your gutters can become clogged with leaves and other debris during the winter months, leaving your home at risk of flood damage. Once the harsh weather is over, it’s a good idea to clean your gutters to ensure they’re working effectively. While you can hire someone to do this for you, learning how to clean your gutter safely could help save you some money that could be better spent on your other post-winter DIY tasks.
2. Inspect and repair your garage
The changing temperatures during the winter months can impact different areas of your home, including your garage. Doors can expand and contract, affecting their alignment and causing cracks. This can also lead to drafts and flooding, with the potential to damage anything stored in your garage. Find a garage door repair company that can inspect and repair damage to your garage doors to keep your space safe and secure. You may need to consider a full door replacement if the damage is severe.
3. Check your roof for signs of damage
Your roof is another part of your property that can sustain some serious damage over the winter months, and one of the most costly to deal with. Checking your roof for signs of damage is something you should do as the seasons change, ensuring your home remains protected from the element year-round. Whether tiles are missing or your roof is showing signs of wear, it’s important to bring someone in to repair it as soon as possible.
4. Service your HVAC system
Your HVAC system can work hard over the winter months, helping your home stay warm and comfortable. But as the weather gets warmer, you’ll want to make sure your air conditioning is ready for summer. Clean out any filters and bring in a professional HVAC service company to help give your system a clean bill of health.
5. Power wash your home’s exterior
Months of winter weather can cause a build-up of dirt, algae and grime, leaving your home’s exterior looking less than sparkling! But with the help of a jet wash, you can get things looking like new again. Power washing can be a very fun and satisfying job, helping to lift away the signs of winter in a matter of minutes. Some areas you’ll need to power wash in the spring include your patio, driveway and decking.
Power washing isn’t just for aesthetics – it can also help make your home’s exterior less slippery, protecting you and your family when you’re outside.
6. Ensure your windows are safe
Winter weather can cause a lot of damage to windows – especially the seals. The cold temperatures can cause caulk to shrink, leaving your home at risk of drafts. A draft can mean your home uses more energy, causing higher bills and impacting the environment. Take the time to inspect your windows and fix any damaged seals, helping your home maintain comfortable temperatures during the summer months.
In addition to checking for cracks and damaged seals, remember to check all of the locks and handles on your windows. Any signs of weakness should be addressed immediately, ensuring your home is secured from potential burglars. If you have a home security system, make sure it’s cleaned and in good working order.
7. Take care of your garden
Most people neglect their gardens during the winter months – it’s easily done when it’s cold and wet! But spring is the perfect time to bring some life back into your outdoor space, and help you enjoy some time outside too. There are different jobs you’ll need to do to spruce up your yard for spring, including clearing up leaves and clutter, treating your lawn and cleaning your outdoor furniture. After a few days spent working on your backyard, it’ll be ready to enjoy once again. Keep up the good work throughout the summer to keep your garden looking its best.
8. Enjoy a big spring clean
Finally, one of the biggest (and most satisfying) jobs to do post-winter is a big spring clean! A spring clean will help you breathe fresh life into your home, ready to enjoy the season ahead. Your spring-cleaning checklist should include:
- A full declutter of your home.
- Clean all skirting boards, light fittings and other areas that gather dust easily.
- Wash your walls and doors – making sure they’re free from scuffs and other marks.
- Give all windows and mirrors a thorough clean.
- Check the batteries and function of your smoke detectors to make sure they’re working properly.
- Wipe down all switches and door handles.
- Clean mattresses and bedding, and vacuum under beds.
- Ensure your curtains and blinds are cleaned thoroughly.
- Shampoo your carpets and rugs.
These are just some of the jobs you’ll want to include on your spring clean list – there may be others unique to your home that you like to take care of during the spring. A spring clean is a great opportunity to refresh your home, bring in some new decor, and get your home ready for the warmer months ahead.
The long, dark days of winter can feel never-ending, so once spring starts to appear, it’s time to get to work on your home. From repairs and maintenance to cleaning your home inside and out, this post-winter reset can help ensure your home is ready for spring and summer, letting you just sit back and enjoy it.
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