Spring checklist for your home

Spring arrived this week, and now it is time to go outside and find out how your house has fared over winter. Whether you are planning to spruce the house up for sale or just need to do a Spring clean, here is a checklist of areas that might need your attention.

Fences:
A good place to start is with the perimeter of your home. Winter rain and wind can play havoc with fences, so check them out carefully. Wiggle posts to see they’re still firmly set and look for loose or rotten fence boards. Stand back and see if the fence is due for a fresh coat of paint – there is a range of all-weather colours available now that could make a dramatic difference to the look of your garden.

Drainage:
Inspect drainage around your home. Heavy winter rain can cause shifts in local topography that may change drainage patterns, allowing water to move or pool around the foundations of your house. Look for areas of water staining or dirt on concrete or foundations.

Trees:
Look for limbs that have cracked or are sagging, or trees that may be leaning more than you remember. Check for overhanging limbs that may be shading the roof and causing guttering problems or leaf build up (a potential fire hazard in Summer).

Foundations:
Check home foundations for signs of cracks or leakage. Small cracks can be a source for seepage into the crawl space under your home. Take particular notice of larger cracks that may indicate movement in the ground under or around the house.

Decking:
Weather invariably takes its toll on decks, so note the condition of the boards for rot or splitting. Walk the entire deck area to check for protruding nails, and also to see if everything feels solid. Pay attention to handrails, look for loose boards, missing nails, separated joints and support posts that feel wobbly. Finally, decide whether a fresh coat of paint is due this summer.

House numbers:
While you’re looking at the rest of your home, take a moment to check house numbers. Are they firmly attached and clearly visible from the street? Do they even exist?

Gutters:
Damaged or clogged gutters can cause a variety of moisture problems and also detract from the appearance of your home. Check that they are firmly attached and the downspouts are well secured and draining properly away from the house. Check the paint for deterioration, especially around joints where you may find signs of leaks in the seams.

Roofing:
Stand back (or use a drone) to take a look at the condition of the roof, making sure no tiles have blown off, have cracked or become loose.