As winter fades and warmer days approach, it's time to prepare your home for the changing seasons. De-winterizing your house ensures that everything is in working order after months of cold weather and helps prevent costly repairs down the road. Follow this step-by-step guide to get your home spring-ready.
- Inspect For Water Damage: Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can take a toll on your home's structure. Walk around your property and check for roof damage such as missing or broken shingles, cracks in the foundation or driveway, damaged gutters and downspouts, and peeling paint or siding issues. Addressing these early will prevent further damage as spring rains set in.
- Check Your Plumbing: If you winterized your plumbing to prevent freezing, it's time to restore the water flow. Turn on outdoor faucets and check for leaks, inspect pipes for cracks or bursts, flush out the water heater and check for sediment buildup, and test sump pumps to ensure they are functioning properly before spring showers arrive
- Clean and Prepare Your Gutters: Winter debris, leaves, and ice buildup can clog your gutters. Clean them out to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage. Also, check for loose or damaged sections that need repair.
- Prepare Outdoor Spaces: Get your yard, patio, and garden ready for use by raking leaves and clearing gravel and salt debris, inspecting fences and outdoor furniture, checking lawn equipment and starting any necessary maintenance, and planning for landscaping or garden improvements. It's nearly patio season, after all!
- Restock Emergency Supplies: Spring storms can bring power outages and flooding. Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with essentials like batteries, flashlights, bottled water, and non-perishable food.
By tackling these tasks early, you’ll enjoy a comfortable and worry-free season ahead.
(Image via Canva)
Posted by Ken Richter on
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