Spring ready: Essential tips for your home

The snow has melted, daylight hours have grown longer, and there’s a little more warmth in every breeze. These are unmistakable signs that spring has arrived, which means it’s the perfect to get your home ready for the season. With every seasonal change comes essential maintenance and here is the Encor Spring Checklist—a step-by-step guide to ensure your home is prepared.

Check the AC and furnace

The worst time to discover your air conditioning doesn’t work is during a summer heatwave. Prepare early by inspecting your air conditioning unit to ensure it’s ready for the season. It’s also wise to check your furnace after winter to confirm it’s still functioning properly and replace its filter. Check all connections, change the filters, and, if necessary, have them serviced if you notice any issues.

Examine roof shingles

With the snow gone, now is the perfect time to inspect your roof. Check for loose or damaged shingles that may have been affected by winter weather. The summer sun can worsen the damage, so it’s best to keep your roof up-to-date and secure. While you’re up there, inspect the chimney for signs of wear, and consider having the flue cleaned or inspected by a certified chimney sweep.

Check the attic and basement

Ensure your attic’s ventilation is working properly and that no critters or birds have built nests over the winter months. Check for obstructions in the vents, signs of roof leaks, and displaced insulation. Proper airflow will be a big help as temperatures rise. Similarly, check your basement for issues like cracks in the cement or signs of leaks. While you’re there, test your sump pump to ensure its functioning properly and ready for melting snow.

Inspect concrete, brickwork, and stucco

Winter can take a toll on foundations and stonework. Inspect all concrete for cracks or sinking. Fill cracks with concrete crack filler or silicone caulking, and when weather permits, power-wash and seal the concrete. If you spot water penetration in brickwork or cracks in the stucco, seal them with an appropriate sealant.

Check outside faucets

Inspect all outdoor hose faucets for freeze damage that may have occurred over the winter. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you’re able to stop the flow of water, it likely indicates damage to the pipe inside your home, which will need to be replaced.

Inspect screen doors and windows

Spring brings fresh air—and bugs! Screens allow the breeze in while keeping pests out, but only if they’re free of tears and holes. Inspect your screens in spring to ensure they’re in good shape. Repair kits can be found at most hardware and home improvement stores. While you’re at it, check your home's windows and doors. If needed, caulk around them to keep out heat and humidity during summer.

Clean the lawn and check for mold

Rake the lawn to remove any debris, branches, or leaves that may have been missed in the fall. Too much buildup can suffocate the grass beneath. Raking also removes dead grass blades and prevents snow mold. It’s also a good idea to check for water damage in your home caused by winter conditions, as this can lead to mold. Keep this list handy and revisit it next year when it’s time to do it all again. A safe and efficient spring can lead to a more enjoyable summer.

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