Spring in Salt Lake City is just around the corner, which means it’s time to prep your home for warmer weather and prevent any winter wear and tear from turning into costly repairs. Here’s a checklist to help you transition your home from snow-covered to sunshine-ready!
1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Winter storms can be rough on your roof, so take a close look (or hire a pro) to check for missing shingles, leaks, or any damage. Clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage as snowmelt and spring rain roll in.
2. Check Your HVAC System
Your furnace has been working hard all winter, and soon your AC will take over. Change your HVAC filters and consider scheduling a professional tune-up to keep your system running efficiently for the warmer months ahead.
3. Examine Windows and Doors
Cold weather can cause seals and caulking to crack, leading to air leaks. Inspect and re-caulk where needed to keep your home energy-efficient. Also, clean windows inside and out to let in all that beautiful spring sunlight.
4. Test Sprinkler Systems
Before you start watering your lawn, test your irrigation system for leaks or broken sprinkler heads. In SLC, late spring is when watering restrictions sometimes kick in, so getting ahead on repairs can save water and money.
5. Inspect Exterior Paint and Siding
Salt, snow, and freezing temperatures can take a toll on your home’s exterior. Check for peeling paint, damaged siding, or cracks in stucco, and make necessary touch-ups to prevent long-term damage.
6. Service Your Lawn and Garden
Rake up leftover winter debris, aerate the lawn, and start planning for spring planting. If you have garden beds, refresh the soil and prune any trees or shrubs that need shaping before the growing season begins.
7. Check for Pests
As temperatures rise, pests like ants, termites, and rodents become more active. Inspect your home’s foundation, attic, and crawl spaces for signs of critters and seal up any entry points.
8. Clean Out the Garage and Outdoor Equipment
With spring cleaning season in full swing, now’s a great time to organize your garage, clean your tools, and prep outdoor furniture. If you own a lawnmower or other landscaping equipment, give it a quick maintenance check before you need it.
9. Test Outdoor Lighting and Security Systems
Longer days mean more time spent outside. Ensure outdoor lights, security cameras, and motion detectors are in working order. Replace bulbs and batteries as needed.
10. Check Your Basement and Foundation
Melting snow and spring rain can lead to basement leaks. Inspect your foundation for cracks and make sure your sump pump (if you have one) is in working condition.
Spring is a time for fresh starts, and tackling these seasonal maintenance tasks will help keep your Salt Lake City home in top shape all year long. A little preventative work now can save you from major headaches later!
Got any go-to spring maintenance tips of your own? Share them in the comments!
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