Spring will be here before you know it; March 20th is officially the first day of the Spring season. Here in the Pacific Northwest we’ll start seeing longer days, (hopefully) a little more sunshine and warmer temperatures. On the next sunny weekend, consider making time to get your home ready for the spring and summer months. Some of these “activities” aka chores, are not as fun as the others, but you’ll be more than happy you took the time to properly prep and de-winterize one of your most valuable asset: your home.
1. CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS
Grab your gloves, hose and a ladder and start clearing out the debris that has accumulated in your gutters and downspouts. Be sure to remove all the big piles of leaves and gunk that has gathered and finish the job with the hose. Test the flow of the gutters by running water through them and stick the hose directly into the downspout of the gutter to clear out any possible clogs.
2. REPLACE FILTERS
This rule goes for all of your filters. We’re talking water, range, and air filters. Spring is a great season to start fresh, and by changing the filters in your home, you’re home is guaranteed to be and feel cleaner altogether.
3. FERTILIZE YOUR LAWN
Fertilize your lawn, but don’t seed it, yet! It’s best to fertilize early in the season. Depending on your lawn, yard experts say you can start to fertilize as early as late February. This helps your grass get off to a good, healthy start for the spring and summer months!
4. PROTECT YOUR HOME AGAINST PESTS
One thing no one missed during the winter: bugs and insects! These critters on well on their way. Protect your home before you have a problem. Inspect the foundation and vents and repair any cracks or replace vents as needed.
5. CLEAN OUT THE DRYER VENT
This is one chore that is often forgot about, but also potentially the most hazardous. A clogged dryer vent is a fire hazard. Disconnect the vent from the back of the machine and use and lint brush to clean. From the outside of your home, remove the cover to clean and be sure the vent flap cover moves without constraint.
6. WASH YOUR WINDOWS
This is more of a housekeeping item, but who doesn’t want clean windows? Especially when the sun starts to peak through more often. For extra credit, take out the screens, spray them down and clean the outside of the windows along with the interior. I’m terrible taking screens in and out properly (maybe you have better luck than me!) Consider hiring a professional for this to eliminate the frustration of damaging or having to replace window screens.
7. TEST SMOKE ALARMS
You should test your smoke alarms far more often throughout the year, but checking and testing your smoke alarms is important. Make sure every single alarm in your home is working and replace any batteries as needed.
BONUS TIP:
Treat yourself to something spring-y for your yard, deck or patio. Winter seems to drag on forever (especially through late February and early March) and a bright colored pot, festive outdoor throw pillow or a beautiful bird feeder may be just what you need to brighten up your day and get your home ready for spring!
