Spring Home Maintenance Tips

Thursday, March 11, 2021   /   by Randy Durham

Spring Home Maintenance Tips

1.     Clean Gutters: clogged gutters and downspouts and rot any wood trim, so it is very important to clean them after the last cold front.


2.     Clean HVAC filters: this really needs to be done more than once a year. Dirty filters make your system work harder, which rewards you with a higher energy bill.


3.     Check the washing machine fill hose: Inspect for any cracks that can turn into leaks that can result in costly water damage.


4.     Clean and repair screens: clean with warm soapy water and patch any small holes


5.     Fix cracks in your walkways and driveway: These can be trip hazards and you will avoid issues with repair negotiations once your home is under contract.


6.     Vacuum your fridge coils: you can find these on the bottom or back of the fridge that conducts the hot air from inside the unit. If they are coated with dust, your fridge works harder.


7.     Prep the lawnmower: change the engine oil and sharpen cutting blades.


8.     Drain your water heater: Sediment can build up in the tank, which shortens its work life. Use the spigot near the bottom of the heater to drain it. Your electric bill will thank you.


9.     Reseal woodwork: outdoor structures last longer when they’re stained and resealed every other year.


10.  Check for termites: They swarm in the spring. Contact a professional if you see signs.


11.  Inspect the roof: look for missing shingles, any damaged metal pipes, or anything that looks out of the ordinary.


12.  Repaint exterior: spring is the best time to repaint if you are planning on sprucing up the color.


13.  Check sprinklers and irrigation systems: check for any broken or damaged hoses and sprayer heads. Adjust any heads that are spraying into the streets, sidewalks, or porches. Your water bill will thank you.


14.  Prevent mosquitoes: remove any standing water that can be a breeding ground for blood-sucking pests. 


15.  Clean the fireplace: Carefully remove any cooled remains and ash. Also, clean the surrounding area. Leave the chimney to a professional.


16.  Deep clean appliances: this includes top, bottom, side, and any accessories to the dishwasher, oven, stovetop, fridge, washer, and dryer. Don’t forget to clean the lint trap in the dryer.


17.  Clean winter clothes: wash any winter gloves, hats, and scarves and pack them away for the next season. Take any winter coats and blankets to the dry cleaners.


18.  Clean your windows: Do this on a cloudy day. Wash with soapy water and a microfiber cloth. Dust the windowsills and touch up any paint if needed.


19.  Clean plumbing: Clean every drain in your home. Do this by pouring boiling water down the drain, then add baking soda, followed by vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug. Follow up with a rinse with boiling water.


20.  Vacuum under the furniture: Remove any heavy chairs and clean and vacuum underneath. Be sure to vacuum under any cushions if you don’t do this regularly.


21.  Clean walls: remove any dust and use a degreaser in heavily soiled areas like the kitchen. Mr. Clean makes large magic erasers to clean walls with ease.


22.  Polish metal doors and hardware: liquid polish works well for lightly soiled surfaces; pastes and creams work better for heavier ones.


23.  Detectors: change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and dust out units.


24.  Scrub sliding door tracks: Use a dry toothbrush to loosen debris, then vacuum. Clean up any remaining grime with a wet sponge.


25.  Deep clean carpets: This needs to be done with a carpet shampooer every twelve to eighteen months.


26.  Clean window treatments: Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner for heavier fabrics. Put sheer fabrics in the dryer with a fabric softener sheet on low heat. Launder any heavily soiled draperies in the gentle cycle.


27.  Power wash: This includes the home's exterior, driveways, walkways, and outdoor furniture: Use a cleaner that helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew.


28.  Inspect any caulking: Do this around doors and windows for damage. Re-caulk damaged area if needed.


29.  Lawncare: Reseed the lawn to fill in any bald patches. Trim any hedges around the HVAC units.


30.  Pool care: Treat the water, check any valves and filters, and inspect any equipment before opening the pool for the summer.


  seller tips

Real Estate Partners Chattanooga LLC
Randy Durham
525 W Main Street
Chattanooga, TN 37402

Information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Data is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS.
Last updated January 18, 2025 Copyright © 2025

This site powered by CINC: www.cincpro.com