Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home, inside and out. Beyond the usual decluttering and dusting, spring cleaning presents an opportunity to address maintenance tasks that often get overlooked in your home. By performing a thorough spring cleaning, you are not only creating a more comfortable living environment but also protecting your home from potential damage and extend its longevity.
We have provided a comprehensive guide on areas of your home that are often overlooked below.
1. Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downpipes
Over the winter months, gutters and downpipes can become clogged with leaves, debris, and dirt. Blocked gutters can lead to water damage, roof leaks, and even foundation issues. Start your spring cleaning by:
- Clearing out any leaves and debris from gutters and downpipes of your home.
- Ensure that water flows freely and away from your home’s foundation.
- Checking for any signs of rust, cracks, or sagging and repairing or replacing damaged sections as needed.
2. Check your Roof for Damage
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, and winter weather can take a toll on its condition. Perform a visual inspection of your roof to look for:
- Missing or cracked tiles that need to be replaced.
- Any cracks, rust or damage to colourbond sheets that need to be replaced.
- Signs of leaks, mould, or mildew, which could indicate moisture problems.
- Damage to flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
If you’re not comfortable inspecting the roof yourself, you should consider hiring a professional to do a more thorough check.
3. Clean Windows and Screens
Spring is the perfect time to let the sunshine in, but dirty windows and screens can block natural light and diminish the aesthetic appeal of your home. Tackle this task by:
- Washing windows inside and out with a glass cleaner or a mixture of water, vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap.
- Removing screens and scrubbing them with mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime.
- Checking for tears or holes in the screens and repair or replace them as needed.
4. Service your Ducted Heating & Cooling Systems
After a long winter, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system could use some attention to ensure it runs efficiently for the warmer months ahead. Key tasks include:
- Replacing or cleaning the filters to improve air quality and system efficiency.
- Cleaning vents and ductwork to remove dust, allergens, and debris.
- Scheduling a professional service to check for any potential issues, such as refrigerant leaks or worn-out parts.
5. Deep Clean Carpets and Flooring
Floors bear the brunt of foot traffic, spills, and everyday wear and tear. Spring cleaning is the perfect time to give your carpets and hard floors a deep clean:
- Vacuum carpets thoroughly to remove surface dirt and allergens, then steam clean or shampoo them for a deeper clean.
- Sweep, mop, and, if necessary, polish hardwood, tile, and laminate floors.
- Pay special attention to high traffic areas, and consider using rugs, or mats to protect flooring from future damage.
6. Declutter and Organize Storage Spaces
Over time, storage spaces such as closets, drawers and garages, can accumulate clutter, making it difficult to find items when needed. Take the opportunity to:
- Sort through belongings, donating, recycling, or discarding items you no longer need or use.
- Organize remaining items with storage solutions like bins, shelves, and hooks to maximize space.
- Clean out and reorganize your pantry, tossing expired items and organizing shelves for easier access.
7. Examine the Exterior of your Home.
Your home’s exterior can be damaged by the harsh winter weather, leading to peeling paint, damaged cladding and brick mortar. A few key steps to consider include:
- Checking for peeling or chipped paint and scheduling touch-ups or repainting as needed.
- Inspecting cladding for cracks, warping, or mould, and cleaning or repairing any damaged sections.
- Inspecting bricks and mortar for any cracks, damage or mould, and cleaning or repairing any damaged sections.
- Washing the exterior walls with a pressure washer to remove dirt, mildew, and grime.
8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Spring is an ideal time to test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. For safety and peace of mind:
- Press the test button on each detector to ensure they are working properly.
- Replace batteries, if needed, or consider installing new detectors if they are more than 10 years old.
- Ensure there is a detector installed on every level of your home, including inside bedrooms.
9. Clean and Inspect Appliances
Regularly cleaning and inspecting your appliances can extend their lifespan and improve efficiency. Key tasks include:
- Pulling out kitchen appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers to clean behind and underneath them.
- Checking seals and gaskets on refrigerators and freezers to ensure they are intact and sealing properly.
- Cleaning the dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer lint traps to prevent blockages and potential fire hazards.
10. Refresh Outdoor Spaces
Spring is also the time to prepare your outdoor spaces for warmer weather and increased use. Consider these steps:
- Power wash decks, patios, and walkways to remove dirt, mildew, and grime.
- Inspect fences, gates, and outdoor furniture for damage, and repair or repaint as necessary.
- Clean outdoor lighting fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs to enhance safety and curb appeal.
Spring cleaning is more than just an annual ritual—it’s a crucial part of home maintenance. By taking the time to address these essential tasks, you can prevent costly repairs, maintain a comfortable living environment, and ensure that your home is ready for the year ahead. So roll up your sleeves, gather your cleaning supplies, and make the most of this season by giving your home the care and attention it deserves.
