Springtime Tuneup

THE 269 HOMES SPRINGTIME TUNEUP

✅ CHECK FOR PESTS

I like to start by inspecting common entry points such as doors, windows, vents, and cracks in the foundation. I’m looking for signs of infestations like droppings, gnaw marks, or nests—I’m cleaning up cobwebs around doorways and high corners, checking inside cupboards, behind appliances, and in the dark, damp areas of the home, including basements and attics, where pests often hide out for the winter. I take care to notice unusual odors, grease marks, or damaged areas, which can sometimes indicate rodent or insect activity. I’m getting out the sponge and the mop, and going over the place with a fine-toothed comb—both in an effort to target problems, and to tune up the overall fresh appearance of my home after it’s weathered a long winter. 

✅ CLEAN AIR DUCTS

In the springtime, I spend a lot of time thinking about the air in my home: After a cold season of recycling heated air, I’m always hungry for the cleanest, freshest air I can get. Often, this pursuit involves removing dust, debris, and contaminants from the ductwork of the heating and cooling system in my home. Some years, I’ll begin by turning off the HVAC system myself, removing and cleaning vent covers with soap and water, and following up with a long hose attachment to reach into my ducts and dislodging any built up dust and dirt. In springs that seem to call for deeper cleaning, I like to a professional with specialized tools to thoroughly clean the duct interior. Regular air duct cleaning can improve indoor air quality and system efficiency.

✅ MULCH AND FERTILIZE GARDENS

Mulching and fertilizing garden beds are essential practices for maintaining healthy, productive landscaping—and even more than that, this to-do is one of my favorite ways to crank up the curb appeal. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature—and it also brings the life and vibrancy back to the whole scene, making my garden beds look and feel brand new: perfect for spring! I like to spend a whole day on this one, watching as the my home’s exterior gets a much-needed makeover, fit for the flowers and summer sun.

✅ INSPECT ROOF FOR DAMAGE

This one goes out especially to my fellow flat roofers! Inspecting a roof for damage in the spring is an important task to catch issues caused by winter weather. You can start by visually examining the roof from the ground or a safe vantage point, looking for missing or damaged shingles, sagging areas, or signs of water damage like dark spots. You should check gutters and downspouts for indications of wear. Addressing minor damage early can prevent more costly repairs later in the year—and especially when it comes to our incredible FLW and Norm Carver gems…don’t skip this to-do! I won’t if you don’t—promise.

✅ POWERWASH EXTERIOR SURFACES

The last thing I check off my list before ducking out the door for the lake all summer long? I bring out the power washer and blast away all the dirt and grime that’s built up over the winter months. Power washing a home's exterior is essential for maintaining its appearance, value, and even structural integrity. Over time, dirt, mold, mildew, algae, and other contaminants can build up, leading to discoloration and damage—but regular power washing not only restores curb appeal, but it can also help prevent costly repairs by removing harmful buildup before it causes long-term deterioration. I think of power washing as the ultimate polishing; there are few things I love more than a late springtime afternoon spent admiring my beautiful, freshly-polished home from the curb. Believe me, it’s worth it!

Here are a few other maintenance items that may need your attention this spring:

• clean gutters-downspouts
• service HVAC
• test smoke + CO Detectors
• deep clean windows
• clean outdoor funiture
• inspect exterior paint
• check plumbing for leaks
• service lawn equipment
• have your chimney cleaned/inspected 

While my springtime to-dos are just the beginning, I find that taking care of these few items before getting swept away into summertime (I’m talking real estate AND barbecues, let’s be honest) can really set me up for a gorgeous summer of enjoying my home with ease. Let me know if you check off any of these to-dos—and be sure to share your own Springtime Tuneup To-Dos with me!