Spring Maintenance
Now that the harsh winter weather is mostly over, it is time to think about how to prepare for spring.
Remove accumulated debris from gutters and downspouts
Starting at the roofline, while being careful climbing the ladder, clean debris from the home's gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can contribute to water damage.
Remove debris from around the house
Leaves, trash bags and other debris tend to accumulate around the foundation that can trap moisture. Excessive moisture attracts insects and animals, and may cause wood rot.
Make sure the outdoor air conditioning unit is ready for summer
Be sure to check for debris both inside the unit and outside. Leaves, trash and nesting material may cause damage to the unit once it is turned on. It is recommended that the air conditionef is serviced by a qualified HVAC contractor before using it. In addition, change the filter in the inside unit.
Prepare your lawn
Clean up the lawn to make sure there are no twigs, rocks or other hard objects that the lawn mower can hit and throw. Flying debris could injure someone far from the mower. Check the mower's blade for sharpness. A dull blade is more dangerous than a sharp one. Put fresh fuel in a gas mower, check the oil and make sure the wheels are on securely.
Inside the house
If accessible, look in the attic, crawl space and basement for any signs of water damage. Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Change their batteries, if necessary.