“It’s almost time for spring cleaning. If you are a homeowner, there is always something that needs to be done around the house, especially when the seasons change. After a long, cold and wet winter, interior home maintenance jobs and repairs are a priority.” advises Joan Hansen.
“You will need to be diligent and complete your home maintenance ‘to-do’ list for the spring season. This practice will help to preserve the value of your home by preventing long term deterioration caused by neglect. Doing maintenance consistently, whenever the seasons change, will make your job easier.”
“As a homeowner and a real estate agent for over 37 years, I can tell you from a personal and professional perspective, that proper home maintenance will not only greatly improve the appearance of your house and property, it will protect your home against weather damage. Costs can be greatly reduced when you stay on top of home maintenance and are able to prevent major repairs.”.
“The sun shining on those dirty windows and dusty surfaces are bound to make us leap up and get started.
In the beginning of Spring it is often too cold to do your outside maintenance. So here is a checklist of interior maintenance:
Blinds, Ceiling fans, Carpets and Draperies
- Blinds, ceiling fans, carpets and draperies always need attention after a long cold winter.
Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses
- Vacuum upholstered furniture and mattresses, and rent a good carpet cleaner. It is important to remove dust, mites, and allergens.
Air Conditioner and Furnace
- Check your air conditioner and furnace in the Spring to make sure they are working efficiently and ready for the summer. Check all the connections, change the filter, and have it serviced, if necessary.
The Attic
- It is imperative that you check the attic after the winter months are behind you. You want to make sure no leaks have developed. Check for mice, insects, or other creatures that may have decided that your warm, cozy, home was the ideal winter hideaway.
Insulation
- Check the insulation to ensure that it is intact. Look for any signs of mold and water damage.
Basement
- Inspect the cement walls of your basement for cracks and any sign of leaks. Closely inspect the basement windows for mold and leaks. Examine the entire basement for any sign of pests.
Sump Pump
- Check your and the washing machine hoses.
Clean Out the Garage
- Spring is a great time to clean out the garage, basement and other areas where things have been piling up. Donate unwanted items to local charities, consign old clothes, sell household or sports items on Kijiji or Craigslist. Throw away broken mechanical items that are just taking up valuable storage space.
Inspect for Mold
- Take the time to inspect all windows, doors, bathrooms, and other areas where water damage and mold could occur. Address any mold issues immediately. Large amounts of mold will warrant your contacting a mold removal company to dispose of the mold properly. Mold is severely hazardous to humans and pets. Particularly at risk are small children and/or people with existing health and respiratory problems.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- A change of season is the perfect time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Check that they are working properly and change the batteries. Also be sure your fire extinguishers don’t have leaks and the pin is in place.
If this sounds like a whole lot of hard work, it is! But the rewards will be innumerable, when your home is clean, dust free, fresh and, most importantly, safe and healthy for yourself and your family.
“So ‘grab that duster and mop'( a little music, please)…I’ll be doing the same. Happy Spring!”.
Thinking of selling? For a copy of preparing you home to sell please contact me at 604-530-4141 or 604-220-7653 Joan Hansen, HomeLife Benchmark Langley or joan@joanhansen.ca