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March is here and that means winter will be over soon. As the temperatures gets warmer, many of us are getting excited to spend more time outside. For homeowners, the warmer weather also means that it is time to take on a few home maintenance projects. Get a head start with our March home maintenance checklist.
1. Clean Your Home’s Siding
All winter your home’s siding has helped to protect your property against the elements. All that snow and dampness can leave dirt and grime behind, leading to mildew and a shortened lifespan. Not only should you take care of your siding for a longe life span, you also likely want your home to look clean and well-kept.
Cleaning your home’s siding can get a little tricky, especially if you have a two-story home. Consider finding a professional to help get your siding clean and ready for the warmer weather.
2. Caulk Windows and Doors
The freezing weather and dampness during the winter can damage the caulking around your windows and doors. Cracks and gaps can lead to drafts, higher utility bills, and even damage from water infiltration.
Inspect the caulking around your windows, doors, and trim. If you notice any damage, repair it with a little additional caulk. Consider opting for a high-quality, siliconized acrylic latex caulk for your interior needs. This type is a little more expensive than the industry standard, but has better adhesions and flexibility. It will last longer and is easier to maintain.
3. Clean and Repair Outdoor Decking
Your outdoor decks were exposed to the harsh weather all winter. Leaves, dirt, and debris can stain the wood of your deck and increase the chance of rot. A little cleaning can go a long way to keeping your deck in optimal shape.
Pressure washing and standard deck cleaning products will refresh your deck and remove any staining in no time. You will want to make sure to clean any dirt out from between the boards and inspect for any loose boards, protruding hardware, or rot.
If your deck needs a little more care than you can provide, consider calling in a professional. Some maintenance now can save you a lot of money down the road.
4. Clean Out the Gutters
Gutters need to be cleaned every so often and March is the perfect time for it. Leaves, pine needles, twigs, and other debris have likely been building up all winter. Your gutters play an important role in protecting your siding and foundation, however they can only serve that role if they are clear and unobstructed.
Find a contractor that can help you if you don’t feel comfortable climbing a ladder and consider installing some gutter guards while you are up there. These screens, covers, or foam inserts (there are a few different styles available) will help to prevent build up in your gutters.
5. Check the Roof
While you are looking at your gutters, take some time to inspect your roof. You likely don’t see the top of your home too often, so now is the perfect time to check on things.
Make sure that there isn’t anything lying on your roof that shouldn’t be there, such as fallen branches. You should also look for any damage to your shingles, flashing, or boots. As with many other home maintenance projects, repairing these items promptly can help you save money in the long run. A roof replacement is no small job, so get some extra years from your roof with a little maintenance.
Always be careful when doing anything with your roof. If you are nervous about the heights, find a professional to help you.
6. Get the Yard Ready
Your yard and gardens have likely taken a bit of a beating during the winter. Take some time to clean them up so they will be ready for the spring weather.
Remove any branches, stones, and dead leaves from the yard. You can do this quickly using a lawnmower with a catch bag. If you have flowers, prune them now. For roses, experts say you should prune after the final frost, but before the flowers wake up from dormancy. Make sure to trash any buds that are showing signs of disease.
For some extra TLC, call in a landscaper to take care of your yard and gardens. With the right home contractors, your outdoor spaces will be looking beautiful for the spring and summer months.
7. HVAC Maintenance
You are likely currently using heating or nothing at all. Soon it will be time for air conditioning to keep your home comfortable in the warm weather and that means maintaining your HVAC should be at the top of your home maintenance list for this month.
Clean your AC condenser using a garden hose and spray nozzle. The fins can be damaged if you treat them too roughly, so don’t use a brush and be very cautious about pressure washing.
A little cleaning will help ensure that your AC runs smoothly in the summer and could mean big savings on your utility bill.
8. Inspect Exterior Pathways
Walkways and driveways can suffer in the freezing weather and ice. Clean up your exterior pathways and inspect them for any damage. Repair any issues to ensure safety and to prolong the lifespan of your pathways.
The repair process depends on the material of the walkway or driveway. Pavers and similar products can simply be replaced. Asphalt may need to be repaired with sealant. Consider completely replacing the pathway if the damage is extensive.
Find a professional near you to help out with the heavy lifting and get your exterior pathways in tip-top shape.
Find Home Contractors for Every Project
Taking on your maintenance projects is easier with the right home services contractors. Best Pick Reports makes finding top professionals in your area simple. From general handymen to HVAC specialists, you can find the best-rated service providers near you to take on that March home maintenance checklist.