The warmth of spring is just around the corner, and with it comes a fresh round of outdoor chores awaiting you. Cold, wet winter and spring can be damaging to the exterior of your home. From cleaning the downspouts and gutters to investing in replacement windows in Seattle, WA, here is a checklist of a few projects you might start once things have a chance to dry out.
1. Clean Downspouts and Gutters
Drainage is a leading concern. First, check for any obvious problems like loose gutters and disconnected spouts. If everything looks right, climb up a ladder and remove loose leaves and debris from the gutters. Then run some water down the spouts to make sure nothing is clogged. If drainage flows away from the foundation, you should be all set.
2. Check Roofing for Damage
It is a perfect opportunity to check the roof while you are cleaning out the gutters. Loose shingles and tiles are a concern. But so is any moss growth on the roof. Look specifically on the north-facing side or where trees leave the roof in shade.
3. Inspect and Wash Exterior Siding and Stucco
To keep moss and mold at bay you should clean the exterior siding with a pressure washer. Don’t spray the windows with a pressure washer. It could break the seals.
4. Seal Up Gaps
The constant wet and damp conditions can cause caulking around the windows and doors to shrink and crack. Any gaps can allow air and water to get in. You will want to address the problem and seal up the gaps before the problem gets worse.
5. Prepare Air Conditioning for Summer
Before the heat of summer rolls in, you want to clear debris away from the outdoor unit. There should be three feet of clearance. To remove dead leaves, brush, garbage, and anything else that may have collected around it over the past months.
6. Clear Out Dead Plants and Shrubs
Landscaping is natural for spring home maintenance. If you didn’t trim trees and clear out old shrubs in the fall, then spring is a great time to take up the task.
7. Reseal Deck and Exterior Wood
Check decks, porches, stairs, railings, and all exterior wood. Wood needs to be treated every four to six years. You might need to sand and refinish any exposed wood.
8. Turn on Water and Sprinklers
As soon as the weather is warm enough, it will be time to reconnect hoses and turn on the water for the sprinkler systems. Look for leaky valves, exposed lines, or any improperly working sprinkler heads.
9. Repair Damaged Screens
Clean the windows and screens, checking for damage or holes. Repairing a screen is a simple task and something you can accomplish with just one trip to the hardware store.
10. Consider Replacement Windows
Builder-grade windows are not going to last forever. Most only last for about 15 years. As they deteriorate you might start to notice leaks, damage, fogging between the panes, and difficult operation. Any one of these could indicate it is time for new windows.
If you are interested in replacement windows in Seattle, WA reach out to the experts at Signature Window & Door Replacement.
