After the winter months, many homeowners start to feel the urge for spring cleaning, though admittedly, they might not exactly be looking forward to it. However, with the arrival of daylight saving time, it’s not just about moving the clocks forward—it’s also a prime time to tackle home clutter and maintenance.
Experts from Better Homes & Gardens advise that home upkeep should be a year-round effort, not just a seasonal task. They recommend maintaining a monthly home improvement checklist to streamline your routine and save money. This list might include tasks like cleaning the furnace filter to enhance heating efficiency and reduce energy costs, replenishing salt in the water softener, cleaning faucet aerators and showerheads to eliminate mineral deposits, and inspecting sink and tub drains to ensure they are clog-free. Regular checks should also be done on smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and all ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), as well as inspecting electrical cords and ensuring that air vents are unblocked.
On an annual basis, the experts at Acme Brick highlight sustainability as a critical focus for home improvements, suggesting the use of eco-friendly, natural construction materials like brick and stone. They predict an increase in drought-resistant landscaping and interior updates that emphasize natural elements such as repurposed wood and low-maintenance flooring.
As spring unfolds and thoughts of outdoor gatherings and barbecues become more vivid, it’s time to pack away the winter gear and embrace the seasonal maintenance regime. This should include inspecting the roof for damage, changing air conditioning filters, cleaning windows and door screens, refinishing decks, and ensuring outdoor grills are clean or updated. Other important tasks include cleaning gutters, checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, inspecting bathroom caulking, and servicing the air-conditioning system.
Embracing a proactive approach to home maintenance can prevent the escalation of minor issues into costly repairs. Regular inspections and upkeep can stave off problems like water damage, mold, and energy inefficiencies. So, while you reset your clocks for daylight saving time, remember that a little prevention in home care can spare you a heavier burden down the line. And before you know it, summer will be here, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor in a well-maintained home.
