Spring-Cleaning Tips
Spring is in the air, and it may sound cliché but setting up a time for some ‘good old-fashioned spring cleaning’ is a good habit for your home and possibly your pocketbook.
Start by looking around your home and assess how much snow accumulation there is at the side of the home and on the roof. These two areas are the most common spots that can have costly leaks. Start by removing the piled-up snow from all window wells and pull or reduce large snow accumulations from the side of the house so meltwater does not pool against the foundation and seep through any cracks.
Inspect the roof and gutters to see if icicles are present. If you see icicles that could mean snow and ice are melting, then freezing again which could lead to ice damming. If there is snow on the roof and you do see ice or icicle build up it may be time to have the snow removed off the roof. A Manitoba spring can often mean warm temps during the day and cold ones a night where meltwater freezes and builds up as ice. This ice can push back up against and under the shingles so that it leaks when melting into an attic or ceiling area causing damage.
Add to your spring maintenance list to check your attic for insulation and consult a professional for an inspection to see if you have enough.
Another smart thing to do is test your sump pump to ensure it works to automatically start pumping water. Even by moving snow away from your foundation, the ground may still be saturated from the fall rains and then more so as snow melts. If the winter was particularly cold there may be frost deep down and meltwater will not be absorbed and eventually flow towards your home. Your weeping tile may absorb this water and drain it properly, but your sump pump is your backup if the extra water cannot be drained.
Speaking of drains, did you know that tree roots can keep growing during the winter months? As grounds shift cracks or breaks in your service lines could happen, and tree roots and debris could start blocking passage. Calling local plumbing professionals to have your drain line roto-rooted can help ensure no surprise sewer backup events happen.
Here are 8 more spring-cleaning tips – Happy spring cleaning!
Inside your home:
Clean out Dryer Lint
- Dryer lint can build up inside the vent pipe and collect around the duct. Clean both the clothes dryer exhaust duct and the space under the dryer. It is recommended to use a brush to clean the vent pipe. Look for lint buildup around the lint trap and clean it as needed. This buildup can make your dryer less effective, and it raises the risk of a household fire. Dryer lint is extremely flammable, and a single spark can ignite this material.
Change Detector Batteries
- Detectors are vital warning systems that ensure the safety of you and your family, so be sure to inspect them year-round. At least twice a year, exchange old batteries for new ones. It takes only a few minutes to replenish both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms during your spring cleaning.
Replace Furnace Air Filters
- Your furnace has been working hard this winter circulating warm air throughout your household. Replace the air filter, allowing your HVAC system to use less energy and save you money!
Windows and Doors
- Check the seals on your windows and doors for any cracks in caulking. Also, check for gaps or cracks in weather stripping. Repairing these items will help to prevent condensation build-up, mold, or heat loss during next winter.
Outside your home:
Gutters and Downspouts
- Clean out your gutters and downspouts to rid them of any debris built up from the winter. Gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home to help prevent pooling water and leaks. It is important to make sure that the water drains away from your walls and foundation.
Foundation
- Walk around your home and look for any cracks or holes in your foundation. It is important to keep in mind most insurance policies don’t cover losses due to foundation issues so keeping on top of this as a homeowner is very important! Any holes/cracks have them fixed by a qualified professional.
Look Over the Roof and Siding
- Harsh weather can compromise your roof and siding. While you’re cleaning your gutters, check the outside of your house for damages. If you spot areas of sagging or any missing shingles, contact a roofer to look.
Prepare your AC unit for use.
- A few steps to follow.
- 1. Replace your air filters.
- 2. Clear the area around your ac unit/registers to increase efficiency.
- 3. Check the insulation on the back of your unit. Any damage or missing insulation call a professional to look.
- 4. Schedule a tune-up. A well-maintained system will result in higher efficiency and a longer life span.
