Every year after the winter ends people head to their basement, attic and garage to give these spaces a thorough cleaning. Spring cleaning is more than simply cleaning out closets. For many, it’s a chance to get your home in tip-top shape both inside and out. Take advantage of the freshness in the air and your motivation to complete DIY projects that benefit your home and your family.
Removing branches and debris from your roof
Winter can take a toll on your home’s exterior, especially the roof. Trees hanging over and rubbing in the roof can cause damage. For one the weight of the roof over the winter can create weak spots in your roof that can lead to moisture developing underneath the shingles. Trapped moisture under the shingles can slowly work its way through to your home. This can cause substantial damage, quickly. If you’re not able to climb onto your roof or you’re not comfortable, hire a service to clear away the branches that are near or hanging over your home. And while you’re attending to the roof, make sure to also have the gutters cleaned so that they can function properly.
Having a security system installed
If you’ve thought about it for a while now is a great time to move forward and get a security system installed. They give you added peace of mind while you’re at work or away, knowing that your family is protected. Many of the advanced systems offered through companies like Black Hat Security Systems have medical alert capabilities, sensors on entry ways and windows, allow you to control the temperature from a remote location, and records images in HD for enhanced quality. In addition to these services you can also download the app and monitor your home’s interior and exterior while at work, running errands or on vacation.
Protecting your plumbing and heating
After a long, harsh winter it’s important to do an inspection of your pipes, and your home’s heating and cooling system. If you are not sure how to check your pipes for potential problems, it’s always best to call in a professional. A plumber knows the signs of weakened pipes that may have occurred over the winter. If you did not insulate your indoor plumbing in the basement over the winter, you might already have damage. A pipe burst is very serious, as it can flood your home in a matter of hours. And, if it happens while you’re away, you could come home to mold, mildew and thousands of dollars in damage. Also, check your electric outlets to see if air is coming inside. This is harmful in all seasons because air pockets can cause your heating and cooling system to work harder than it has too. It can also create a place for bugs to enter your home.
Call an exterminator
It’s a known fact that bugs seek shelter over the winter and usually, the places they select are cozy, warm homes. An exterminator can check your roof, walls, attic, basement and garage for moist places and openings that may have provided a way for them to enter your home. While most bugs are more of a nuisance than harmful, spiders, cockroaches and ants can wreak havoc.
Outdoor furniture, swings and play sets
Before your first family get-together of the season, it’s a good idea to make sure that your furniture and children’s swing sets are secure. Winter elements can take their toll on any items stored outdoors without covering. Remove any rust with a spray coating and tighten all bolts and screws to make sure that everything is sound.
You don’t have to limit spring cleaning to scrubbing down walls, windows and doors. Take advantage of the fresh air and your high energy levels and take on some of the spring cleaning DIY projects you’ve thought about but put off for a while. Make your home comfortable and safe for every member of the family.