As spring winds down and the weather warms up, it's the right time to put your summer maintenance list together to get your home and landscape in order. Creating a list will help you visualize the work that needs done and makes it easier to prioritize tasks. Our agents share tips to help you get started.
Get Ready to Clean
You should start your maintenance by getting rid of clutter and thoroughly washing the inside and outside of your home. This will make it easier to see any damage to the home and any issues that need repairing.
Perform a Visual Inspection
Do a walk around your home. On the outside, inspect the siding, shingles, concrete, grass, and foliage. Note any cracks that need repaired, siding that needs replacing, roofing issues, cracks in the concrete, etc. On the inside, inspect the insulation in the attic and crawlspace, note any drafts around windows/doors, identify fixtures and faucets that need repairing, and note any painting or remodeling you want to do over the summer.
Schedule HVAC and Plumbing Inspections
Hire a NATE-certified HVAC technician and a certified plumber to inspect your furnace, air conditioner, and plumbing systems. Annual inspections are a wise investment in your comfort and the reliability of these systems. And many air conditioner/furnace manufacturers require them to maintain warranty coverage.
How's the Grass?
Inspect your grass and any flower beds, gardens, trees, etc., on your property. Note the condition of your grass and plants and create a list of tasks that need completing. This may include trimming trees, adding fertilizer, reseeding dead spots, replanting, etc. If you have an in-ground sprinkler, inspect the nozzles, inspect for leaks, and confirm controls are operating properly. And don't forget to check that all the nozzles are properly aimed so that you don't waste water over the summer.
Test the Appliances
Give all the appliances in your home a thorough check. Confirm that your oven, refrigerator, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, etc., are delivering optimal performance. You should also clean out all dryer and oven vents because these are significant fire hazards.
Inspect the Deck
If you have a deck, inspect the planks, rails, and support beams for signs of rot and other damage. It's also a good idea to check that water is still beading on the surface and that it doesn't need resealing.
Check the Drainage
Clean out gutters, downspouts, and drains. Ensure that these are properly attached to the home and that the water flows freely away from your home and foundation.
Get Rid of Pests
Clear out cobwebs, bird nests, wasp nests, etc. And, make sure you have no standing water around the home as this can become a breeding ground for mosquitos.
Check Security
Test all door and window locks to make sure they move freely and latch tightly. You should test all smoke/CO detectors for operation and make sure that exterior lights are functional.
Take a Breath
How does your house smell? Clean out your resisters and air ducts, confirm fans are operating properly, and if you have a chimney, have it professionally cleaned. Change the filters on your furnace/air conditioner, clean your humidifier/dehumidifier/air purifier, and open the doors and windows to let some fresh air in!
And, if you are thinking about putting your home on the market among Ridgewood homes for sale , contact us to get the process started. We're happy to give you some ideas that could add value to your home!
