Around the House Spring Chores Checklist for South Australians
Spring has arrived and your home is looking the worse for wear. The warmer weather is on its way, which could cause more damage to your home. Spring chores are a great way to make sure your entire property is prepared for the impending sun, rain or wind. The first step is making a checklist of any minor issues around your home. While these defects may seem harmless now, they can progress to major problems in a very short period of time.
Follow this guide for spring chores in South Australia to reinforce your home and property for the spring and summer weather.
- The roof is one of the first areas that will benefit from minor maintenance. Check for tiles that are loose, damaged or missing. Leaks can cause a major headache so inspect for moisture intrusion, cracked seals or flashing that is out of place.
- Trim and woodwork are the next areas to inspect. If your paintwork is peeling or damaged in any way, the surface underneath is not benefiting from adequate protection. Besides, damaged paintwork is an eyesore. Trim and woodwork may need a touch-up to keep your exteriors protected and aesthetically pleasing.
- You don’t want a deck that is damaged. Cracks, popped nails or rotting boards can progress to major issues. Make repairs where necessary to restore your deck – but don’t forget about concrete steps. A coat of concrete paint will provide added protection against the sun and rain.
- Don’t allow debris such as leaves and dirt to build up in gutters. Clean out any debris and repair damage where you find it. Leaf guards are an inexpensive solution for preventing debris from blocking downpipes.
- You don’t want cracks forming in your foundation. Skirt the perimeter of your home, looking carefully for any damage as you go. Hairline cracks are easily filled but if you find major cracks you should consult with a structural engineer.
- How reliable is your air conditioning system? Now is a good time to arrange a yearly check-up from a licensed professional.
- Windows get grimy during the winter months and those storm windows that kept out the harsh weather probably won’t be needed in spring. Clean your windows and sills thoroughly and take down any shutters.
- It’s highly likely you will want to spend time outdoors in spring and summer. With that in mind, make sure your outdoor furniture is clean and usable.
- Check garden hoses for leaks and repair needs.
- Your lawn and wider landscape may have suffered from a barrage of debris during the winter. Rake up any dead leaves and other debris. You can now use fertilizer and repair any bald spots with seeding. Once those jobs are done, you can water your lawn and plants.
- Take an inventory of your plants and start planting any spring seeds. You can find planting guides for a wide array of plants, shrubs and vegetables online. You may want to wait a little bit to ensure that you don’t end up over planting and crowding the landscape. Some plants are late bloomers, so to speak.
If you need to carry our any major renovations that require a building inspection, reach out to the experts at Houspect South Australia.