The “to-do” list I have mapped out for this season is atrocious. It includes leveling the side yard for a garden space, repairing the fence in multiple locations and updating the chicken coop – just for starters. But the tasks that top the list are home maintenance. After all, I want to protect my family and my investment.
The team at Boggs Inspection Services knows what it takes to keep up on home maintenance. And while the list can seem daunting, these small steps will make a big difference in the longevity and integrity of your home’s structure and function.
Here, Boggs Inspection Services helped outline some of the most important considerations when maintaining your home this spring.
- Examine the roof.
Winter damage, especially the hard rains and extra snow we had this year, can do damage to your tiles. When the sun comes beating down, any existing damage can become worse. Make sure there are no loose tiles, and no missing tile or gaps. It’s also important to clean the roof with a non-abrasive scrub brush and a product like Moss Off, but never power wash a roof.
- Check the gutters.
While you’ve got the ladder out, make sure you check the gutters for debris, cracks or leaks. First, clean the leaves, needles and debris out of your gutters, then run a hose through to check for leaks. Fix any leaks with caulking, or determine if damages are bad enough to require professional repairs. As a final step, make sure your gutters are connected to a downspout that’s in good working order. All downspouts should point away from your home and connect either to an underground drainage system or a splash block, directing the water away from the foundation. Water can be a home’s worst enemy when not given proper direction.
- Look at the chimney.
Even if you don’t use your fireplace, a spring check-up for the chimney, including cleaning, is recommended. Hiring a professional chimney sweep is the best, as they have the certification and know-how and many insurances require professional cleaning for coverage. External examination is important, too. Are there wet or unstable bricks? Is there damage or corrosion? Follow this comprehensive checklist crafted by Boggs Inspection Services to ensure your fireplace is in good working order.
- Examine the concrete.
Cracks in your concrete can indicate tree roots, or depending on the age, faulty installation. Concrete and asphalt have different properties. Asphalt driveways are generally set up as one long, unbroken surface, so they will often crack more easily than concrete surfaces, which have controlled joints interspersed throughout. Freezing weather and extensive pressure (from above or underneath) can cause cracking. In addition to inspecting concrete for aesthetic reasons and possible causes, it’s important to consider cracks as trip hazards as well.
- Complete your tree and shrub pruning.
Nikki McCoy
Make sure branches and roots are not too close to the walls and foundation of your home. Critters can use the limbs and branches as a pathway to your gutters, attics and crawlspace. Leaves and shrubs that have grown against siding can start to cause wood rot or otherwise damage exterior materials. Another consideration is the weight of overgrown branches in case of breaking or cracking during a storm.
- Go above and beyond.
Painting, caulking and all the little odds and ends of home repair are essential in keeping your home in its best shape. If you need an extra, thorough eye to give your home the spring inspection it deserves, don’t hesitate to call Boggs Inspection Services. They will take care of all the details in damage prevention and intervention. They also have a recommended list of service providers if professional work is deemed necessary.
To learn more about Boggs Inspection Services, call 360-480-9602 or visit their website.