The daffodils are flowering, and spring is on the way; you can feel it in the air! Before we get too caught up in the excitement of warmer weather to come, it is also an important time to cover off some home maintenance tasks. Follow these tips and your home will be standing pretty when we get those beautiful NZ summer days.
So where to start?
Spring Maintenance - House Interior
Inside your home, this is a good time to check appliances and facilities that have run all winter long. Check your Heat Pumps, Ventilation Systems, Gas Fires and Chimneys as your reliance for these heating systems decreases and they are doing less work. Most of these systems utilise filters and some form of ducting, making sure these are still good and mould free will ensure your home stays healthy. It is also a good idea to make sure that cooling/air conditioning functions are still working and ready to keep you cool during the coming heat.
It's also a good idea to inspect your washing machine and dishwasher pipes for cracking. You don’t want any potential leaks so best to get these redressed when required!
Check for mould growth on your windows and windowsills after months of cold and clean them well. While you are taking a closer look at windows, doors, and trims, check the integrity of caulking and seals. Check your insect screens for any tears before the bugs start appearing just as quickly as the warmer weather.
Don’t forget Bathrooms and showers should also be inspected for mould growth and given a deep clean. As with any surface that gets damp, this can happen.
TEST YOUR SMOKE ALARMS – yes again!
Spring Maintenance - House Exterior
For the exterior of your home, your gutters and downpipes may have collected some winter debris so get your cleaning tools out again. Clean weeds and plant growth from your homes base and around the heat pump or A/C outside condenser unit too.
Power wash concrete driveways and footpaths paying special attention to moss and lichen growth. If you have brickwork, check the mortar for cracking or weak spots and wash off any moss and lichen here too.
Inspect any decks, timber paths and all railings for rot and sturdiness. Nothing spoils a good barbeque as much as stepping through a rotten deck or trusting a faulty rail. Clean that moss and lichen while you are at it – your timber will be grateful as well as your wallet.
As things heat up and the weather becomes dryer take note of any painted surfaces that may need to be refreshed by washing or adding a new coat of paint. Check outside taps, exposed water pipes and sprinkler heads for drips or leaks.
Spring Maintenance - Outdoors Entertaining & Garden
Make sure that garden machinery, such as your lawn mower or trimmer, are still in good shape and make sure any services needed on these are up to date.
Check any gas barbeques, flexible gas pipes, gas connections and seals, and other outdoor cooking facilities are all in safe working order so that you and your friends are ready to utilise the good weather when it presents itself.
Remember, the little things done a bit at a time saves big costs and big works later.
