The spring season is upon us! With it comes brighter days, warmer afternoons, and a season that is generally busier than the one prior. As the weather warms, ensure you’ve prepared your home for the season with our list of home maintenance tasks. 

The phrase "spring cleaning" originated from the practice of thoroughly cleaning one's home after winter, when oil lamps left grime on surfaces. Today, we use the term when warmer weather allows for open windows during thorough cleaning tasks. These tasks typically go a step further than regular cleaning routines as the new season and a fresh start arrive.

Deep Cleaning:

• Dust furniture, light fixtures, fan blades, window sills, and baseboards
• Sweep and mop flooring; vacuum and deep clean carpets and rugs
• Defrost fridge or deep freezer
• Clean out ice maker
• Clean curtains and blinds
• Check the batteries on garage door openers

Routine Tasks:

Address the usual monthly and quarterly tasks, including:

• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, replace batteries if needed
• Clean garbage disposal
• Check and replace HVAC filters (every 2-3 months)
• Clean air vents
• Clean dryer vents

Spring weather can be unpredictable, especially in the Carolinas! Set aside a little time on sunny days to complete these tasks, so your space stays in top shape rain or shine:

Garden & Yard:

• Prune shrubs and bushes
• Remove and/or replace dead plants
• Fertilize lawn and plant flowers
• Apply a fresh layer of mulch or pine straw to garden beds to retain moisture and control weeds
• Clean outdoor furniture
• Perform maintenance on outdoor equipment like lawnmowers, trimmers, etc.
• Check and repair fences, gates, sheds, and other outdoor structures
• Schedule yard maintenance 

Protect Your Investment:

• Clean out gutters and downspouts
• Inspect for exterior and roof damage; repair if necessary
• Check the foundation for cracks or damage
• Check around A/C unit, remove debris
• Clean windows and replace damaged screens
• Inspect attics and basements for damage, leaks, or issues 

While this list is not exhaustive, it should get you started on spring cleaning and maintenance! Depending on your home and lifestyle, there may be even more to-dos to prepare your home for the new season. 

Need help with some or all of these projects? Your Helen Adams Realty agent is happy to help with recommendations for everything from yard work, gutters, windows, inspections, and more.