Spring Into Action! - 5 Steps for Spring Home Maintenance

Can you feel it? Spring is inching closer as the weather grows warmer, the days grow longer and local ice cream shops begin posting their opening dates (always a good sign).

This time of year, homeowners in the DC metro area are thinking about home maintenance projects they want and need to accomplish. For many, 2013 will also be year they’ll make changes they’ve been considering, including adding a sunroom to increase their living space, having a deck built for family parties or improving their landscaping.

Home maintenance takes time and energy, but it’s a worthwhile investment in your most valuable asset. Whether you’re a new or seasoned homeowner, now’s the time to consider these five tips and spring into action:

1. Check your AC – We know you might still have your heat on, but this is DC, so we’ll likely make the automatic switch from heating to cooling in one day. Hire a pro to check your cooling system to ensure it’s running in tip-top shape.
2. Caulk the Cracks – That sounds like something that could be on a t-shirt, but it’s referring to the cracks that appear around windows and doors, which let the heat out and cold in during the cool months and let the cool out and warm air in during the warmer months. So, get caulking!
3. Clean out the Gutters – A perennial favorite with homeowners is cleaning the gutters (not), and should be done to stave off damage and annoying occurrences during rain storms. To get the job done, seek out one of the many companies in the DC area who offer professional, affordable gutter cleaning.
4. Repair your Roof – It’s always good to have a (functioning and safe) roof over your head. If you don’t want to risk climbing up there, contract with a reputable company to check your roof and make the necessary repairs. You’ll be glad you did.
5. Keep your Basement Dry – And now for the other end of the house – the basement. Those annoying occurrences during rain storms can also happen in your basement if it’s not properly sealed and/or protected by a sump pump. Make the investment in your basement for peace of mind and possibly find more living space - with a remodel to your unfinished basement.

Taking care of your home this spring will be well worth it – now and for the future.

Trish Schroeder

Schroeder Design/Build, Inc.

Trish@SchroederDesignBuild.com

www.SchroederDesignBuild.com