Seasonal home TLC will prepare your house for pretty much anything that you might expect nature to throw at it. From freezing ice to pounding heat, each season brings its own issues that can damage a property. From inspecting windows to spring cleaning, here are some ideas.
Check the Roofing, Gutters, and Drains
What goes up must come down, but sometimes things just come down. Rain, leaves, and, oh, the roof! Roofing and drainage issues are among the worst that can happen to a house, especially during a particularly bad season. Local companies like E.W. MacDowell Roofing will install quality roofing for protection against anything nature can throw at you. But even with the best roof in town, you can lend a hand by checking for and removing problems each season.
Inspect the Windows and Exterior Doors
Windows are wonderful, allowing you to see the world outside while keeping it from coming in, and in some seasons, you really don’t want that! While windows provide a view, they also serve another purpose, and that’s keeping out drafts. Drafts will cool your home and challenge your heating system in winter, making it more expensive to run. Doors are also the same, so check for drafts and seal them. If they are single-paned and old, it might be time for some new ones.
Heating and Cooling Seasonal Home TLC
Heating and cooling are vital. No one should have to be cold, and there are many convenient ways to make your home feel warmer. However, HVAC repair requests increase by around 55% in the summer, so you also need a cooler home to stay comfortable even when it’s hotter:
- Check heating and cooling vents aren’t blocked by dirt, dust, and debris.
- Ensure any wireless communication controls are working so you can actually use them.
- Replace HVAC filters in summer and bleed radiators (if you have them) in the winter.
Deep Cleaning the House
Why wait for spring to clean the home? There’s no bad time to clear out the house, and it’s shocking how much a person can accumulate over just one season. So how about a seasonal cleaning instead? A clean and tidy home is a safe home, and that means fewer accidents and reduced chances of serious problems such as electrical fires or falls down the stairs. Local dumps and tips are generally open all year round, and charity stores will accept most goods.
Check Plumbing, Gas, and Electrics
Plumbing, gas, and electricity are the main components of a modern home. Without any of these, your life could become chaos. However, you can make simple checks each season. Signs of plumbing issues include gurgles, drips, and odors. Gas problems include cold water, faulty boilers, and strange noises. Electrical issues are indicated by burning smells, discolored sockets, and flickering lights. No, you don’t have ghosts; the house just needs a quick check!
Summary
Checking the roofing, gutters, and drainage are vital seasonal home TLC tasks you should get around to before each new one starts. Of course, heating and cooling systems must be kept in working order. It also helps to look for the signs of gas, plumbing, and electrical issues.
