As a new homeowner, you don’t need to worry about major issues such as a failing roof. Yet, this doesn’t mean you can sit idle for the next 20 years. It is important to take steps to keep your home in good condition. Spring is a fantastic time to thoroughly inspect your home for any issues and make repairs while they are minor. Consider implementing the following spring preparation tasks to keep your home in new condition.

Outdoor Inspection

While it is unlikely your new home will have any major roofing or siding issues, it is good to get in the habit of taking a close look at the exterior each spring. This will help you become acquainted with the current condition of your home so you notice when something is not right and needs repair. Certain outdoor items, like the gutters, need to be cleaned out in the spring every year. Consider conducting the following inspection and maintenance tasks this spring.

Roof

Take a close look at the roof. The shingles or tiles should be continuous and consistent looking. If any are broken or missing, they need to be replaced to prevent further damage.

Gutters

Check the gutters and down-spouts for debris. Verify the gutter system is directing water away from the foundation of your home.

Siding

Look at the siding or stucco on your home to make sure it didn’t suffer any damage over the winter. Repair any damaged or broken siding. You may also notice a buildup of dirt. Consider power washing to keep things looking new. You can also power wash your walkway.

Windows and Doors

Verify the windows, doors, and trim surrounding them did not degrade over the winter. Spring is a good time to clean windows, doors and screens.

Interior Preparation

Many people think of spring as being a time for spring cleaning. While cleaning is beneficial, you should go beyond cleaning and prepare the interior of home for the spring and summer with the following suggestions.

Reverse Ceiling Fans

If you have ceiling fans, now is the time to change the direction the fans spin. You want the fans to run counterclockwise in summer and clockwise in winter to re-circulate warm air near the ceiling. This is more energy efficient. While you are changing the direction of the fan, it is a good opportunity to dust off the blades.

Smoke Detectors and Extinguishers

Spring is a good time to verify your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are operating properly. You should also practice a fire drill as a family. Identify a meeting place and emphasize that family members should get out of the house immediately without trying to save material items. Review multiple ways to exit the home.

Make sure you have fire extinguishers in the kitchen and on each level of the home and that they are fully charged.

Dryer Vents

Dryers commonly cause house fires due to the buildup of lint. It is wise to clean and inspect your dryer vent each year. Pull the dryer out and inspect from the back. Make sure lint has not clogged the vent to the outside.

Reprogram Your Thermostat

Consider reprogramming your thermostat to account for the warmer weather and any changes in your family schedule during the spring. You can save considerable money by properly using a programmable thermostat.



Although it is unlikely you will have to worry about any major home issues for many years, it is important to take steps to keep your home well-maintained from the start. Contact us for additional new home tips.