Spring Forward: What the First Day of Spring Means for Homeowners

Spring is Here: Time to Shake Off Winter’s Mess

The snow has melted, the birds are singing, and your house... well, it looks like winter had a wild party and forgot to clean up. From clogged gutters to dusty fans, your home needs some TLC to bounce back from the cold months.

Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Our Spring Home Maintenance Checklist will guide you through the essential tasks to get your home fresh, functional, and ready for warm weather fun. Let’s roll up those sleeves and dive in!

Maintenance Minute

Where Small Fixes Make a Big Difference!

This week focus on the Spring Home Maintenance checklist!

Ah, spring!

That magical time of year when the birds are singing, the flowers are blooming, and your house suddenly looks like it lost a battle with winter. Welcome to the season of renewal—and home maintenance.

The first day of spring isn’t just a date on the calendar; it’s a wake-up call for homeowners everywhere. So grab your gloves, your trusty toolbox, and maybe a strong cup of coffee—it’s time to shake off winter and get your home in shape.

Why Spring Maintenance Matters

Winter can be tough on your home. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures are like that one friend who stays too long at your party—they leave a mess behind. Ignoring these issues could mean costly repairs down the road.

Spring maintenance helps you:

• Spot damage early before it worsens

• Extend the life of your home’s systems

• Improve your home’s curb appeal

• Save money on energy costs

Plus, who doesn’t love the feeling of starting fresh?

The Great Spring To-Do List

Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with our Spring Home Maintenance Checklist, available as a free download.

Here are some key highlights from the checklist to help you hit the ground running:

Outdoor Checklist

☑️ Inspect the roof for damaged or missing shingles. (Winter storms love to leave their mark.)
☑️ Clean and inspect gutters to avoid water damage.
☑️ Reinstall garden hoses and test faucets for leaks.
☑️ Wash the exterior of your home—your siding will thank you.
☑️ Prune trees and bushes to keep your yard looking sharp.
☑️ Clean and inspect your BBQ grill. After all, spring means grilling season!

Indoor Checklist

☑️ Change your furnace filter to keep your HVAC system running efficiently.
☑️ Clean bathroom fans and range hood filters.
☑️ Test your sump pump to avoid unwanted indoor swimming pools.
☑️ Switch your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to push cool air down.
☑️ Inspect the attic for leaks and pests—nobody wants uninvited guests.

These tasks aren’t just for aesthetics; they’re essential for preventing costly repairs down the road.

Pro Tips for Tackling Spring Chores

1. Break It Down: Don’t try to tackle everything in one day unless you want to feel like you fought a bear. Break tasks into manageable chunks over a few weekends.

2. Prioritize: Focus on areas that were exposed to the harshest winter weather first (like your roof and gutters).

3. Enlist Help: Got teenagers? Bribe them with pizza and assign them tasks like yard cleanup or window washing. They’ll survive.

4. Safety First: Don’t skip safety gear, especially when working on ladders or with sharp tools.

Free Download: Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

To make things easier, we’ve created a detailed checklist that you can print and follow. It covers everything from roof inspections to pantry organization. Grab your copy here. 👇🏼👇🏼

With a little effort now, your home will be ready to enjoy all the sunny days, backyard barbecues, and lazy afternoons spring has to offer.

So roll up those sleeves, homeowners—spring is here, and it’s time to get to work!

Q&A- What’s the best way to clean outdoor furniture after winter storage?

How to Clean Outdoor Furniture After Winter Storage

Winter can leave your patio furniture looking like it’s been on a wilderness retreat. Here's how to get it fresh and ready for spring:

1. Dust and Debris Removal:

   • Start by brushing off loose dirt, leaves, and cobwebs. A leaf blower or handheld vacuum can speed this up.

2. Deep Cleaning by Material:

   • Plastic/Resin Furniture: Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Use a sponge or soft brush to scrub away grime. Rinse well with a garden hose.

   • Metal Furniture: Wipe down with soapy water, paying attention to any rust spots. For rust, scrub lightly with steel wool and touch up with rust-resistant spray paint.

   • Wood Furniture: Use a mild wood cleaner or a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Avoid power washing wood, as it can strip the finish.

   • Fabric Cushions: Check the care tag first. Most cushion covers are machine washable. For non-removable covers, scrub with a solution of warm water and mild detergent, then rinse and air dry in the sun.

3. Finishing Touches:

   • Apply a protective spray to metal furniture to prevent rust.

   • Use a UV protectant on plastic or resin furniture to reduce sun damage.

   • Consider applying teak oil to revitalize weathered wooden pieces.

Pro Tip: Store cushions in a dry, covered space during winter to save yourself some scrubbing next spring!