Warmer temperatures are starting to arrive in the Mile High City, and it's a great time to take stock of your home's welfare after the thick of the winter season. You may be asking yourself 'why now' when it comes to home maintenance, but spring in Denver is a bit different. We often experience all four seasons in a matter of days as we transition into spring. Temperate days are a great time to complete easy maintenance projects. For more significant projects, starting earlier in the year with the planning and hiring process is imperative so that when spring temperatures come around, you have the labor and materials needed to get the project underway without missing a beat.
Spring Safety Check
Test or install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, ensuring everything is in working order and up to code. Now that there's no snow on the ground, it's also an excellent time to practice a fire drill with the whole family, even your pets!
Cooling Systems
Now is the perfect time to schedule service for your AC unit. Vendors' schedules are filling up fast, so getting someone in to check and clean your air conditioning unit or evaporative cooler before you need it on those hot summer days is important! Make sure to replace your filters regularly too.
Windows and Caulking
As the reminiscence of ice slowly melts away, now is an excellent time to inspect the exterior of your home, window seals, doors, and thresholds for cracks and gaps where water can get in. Remove any deteriorating sealant, give the track a good wipe down, and apply new caulking. Remember to check the windows for any damaged screens or weather stripping that needs to be replaced.
Siding and Exterior
Give your home a facelift! Check any wood surfaces for weathering or peeling paint, then sand, prime, and paint. It is worth renting a power washer to give your siding some TLC, prevent any mold growth, and give life to your new paint job. While making these improvements, see if your home number or mailbox needs some love.
Foundation
Scan your home's foundation for any hairline cracks, heaving, or deterioration. Classify and monitor them on an ongoing basis. It may be time to call a structural engineer if they've expanded. Ask your agent for a recommendation.
Roof and Gutters
Inspect your roof for any missing, loose, or damaged shingles. If you notice any wear or tear on your roof, it may be worth talking with your insurance provider to review what your homeowner policy covers, so there are no surprises. While the ladder is out and gloves are on, take the time to clean gutters, downspouts, & extensions and repair or replace them as needed.
All Things Wood
Even with weather-treated materials, Colorado's winters can do a number on outdoor spaces. Make sure to diligently check all decks, patios, porches, and, most importantly, fence, railings, and stairs. Re-seal any wood that needs it, or fully sand and re-stain or seal if the deck is in need of extra love before patio season. This doesn't need to be done every single year, but if water no longer beads up on the surface, it's time.
All Things Asphalt
Driveways can take a beating, too - wear and tear from your vehicles, toys, and kids' activities; the list is endless. Start by power washing the driveway to remove any gunk and scrub off oil residue. Follow with a sealant to promote longevity and stability. If you see any cracks in your driveway or dips you want to be leveled out, you may need to hire a professional to remediate the issue.
Landscaping
The ground is beginning to thaw, so get your bushes shaped and lawn prepped so it's ready to bring the dormant landscaping to life. Start by cutting and trimming any dead vegetation from last season to give the new shoots their day in the sun. Remember to trim overgrown bushes that grow close to your home so any rogue limbs don't cause any damage. Check your sprinkler system for leaks, exposed lines, and breakage before your lawn needs watering. Once you've ensured your water source, begin laying down grass fertilizer for a lush lawn all season long.
Declutter
As you begin to pack away your winter activities and gear for summer storage, it is worth going through all your items to ensure nothing needs to be replaced, donated, or thrown away. Decluttering as you go is an easy way to get the job done in stages and avoid getting frustrated. Especially if you need other family members to comb through items, 5 minutes here or there to go through a pile will be easy instead of several hours of zero fun.
Home appreciation is much more than the annual market value accrued on your home. Maintaining your home directly correlates to your home's appreciation and the success of your selling process. Spread the load out over the next several weeks and enlist housemates for assistance. Even little hands can be helpful for some of these tasks, and modeling responsible home maintenance is a valuable lesson to pass along to the next generation. Your home will thank you for making an effort to keep it in excellent condition!
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