The snow has melted (hopefully for good!), the birds are singing, and the days are getting longer here in Bloomington. Spring is a time of renewal, and that includes giving your home some much-needed attention after a long winter. At MEJARO Inspection Services, we see firsthand how neglecting seasonal maintenance can lead to bigger, costlier problems down the road – issues that often come up during a home inspection.
Think of spring maintenance as preventative care for your biggest investment. By tackling these tasks now, you not only keep your home safe and comfortable but also protect its value and potentially avoid unpleasant surprises during a future inspection.
Here’s our essential spring checklist, looking at your home through the eyes of an inspector:
Exterior Essentials: The First Line of Defense
Winter weather can be harsh. Start your spring maintenance by inspecting the exterior elements that protect your home.
Roof & Gutters:
Task: Visually inspect your roof from the ground (use binoculars if needed) for missing, damaged, or curling shingles. Check flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Thoroughly clean gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris. Ensure downspouts direct water at least 3-6 feet away from your foundation.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Damaged roofing is a primary entry point for water, leading to leaks, attic mold, and structural damage. Clogged gutters cause water to overflow, potentially damaging siding, landscaping, and even the foundation – all major red flags in an inspection.
Siding & Trim:
Task: Walk around your home, looking for cracks, holes, warping, or rot in siding and trim (wood, vinyl, brick, etc.). Check for peeling paint or damaged caulking around windows and doors.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): The building envelope needs to be sealed. Gaps or damage allow water and pests entry, compromising insulation and structure. Peeling paint indicates moisture issues or lack of maintenance.
Foundation & Grading:
Task: Examine the visible foundation for cracks (especially horizontal or stair-step cracks in masonry). Ensure the ground around your foundation slopes away from the house. Fill any low spots near the foundation with compacted soil.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Foundation issues are serious and costly. Proper grading is crucial to prevent water from pooling against the foundation, which can lead to leaks, settling, and structural damage.
Windows & Doors:
Task: Check seals and caulking for wear and tear. Repair or replace damaged window screens. Ensure doors close and latch properly.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Damaged seals lead to energy loss and potential water intrusion. Intact screens keep pests out. Proper door function relates to security and energy efficiency.
Decks, Patios & Walkways:
Task: Inspect decks for loose or rotting boards, wobbly railings, and proper flashing where attached to the house. Check patios and walkways for cracks or uneven surfaces that could be trip hazards.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Deck safety (especially ledger board attachment and railing stability) is paramount. Trip hazards on walkways and patios are safety concerns inspectors note.
Air Conditioning Unit:
Task: Clear away any leaves, grass clippings, or debris that accumulated around the outdoor condenser unit over winter. Ensure shrubs are trimmed back at least 2 feet. Consider scheduling a professional HVAC tune-up.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Proper airflow is essential for AC efficiency and longevity. Restricted airflow strains the system. An inspector checks the age and apparent condition of the HVAC system.
Interior Integrity: Comfort & Safety Checks
Once the exterior is assessed, move inside to check key systems and areas.
Basement & Crawl Space:
Task: Check for dampness, musty odors, visible mold, efflorescence (white chalky stains on walls), or new cracks in foundation walls. Test your sump pump if you have one.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Moisture intrusion in basements and crawl spaces is a major concern, leading to mold, rot, pests, and structural issues. Sump pump failure can cause significant flooding.
Attic:
Task: Look for signs of roof leaks (water stains on insulation or underside of roof sheathing), pest intrusion (droppings, nests), and adequate insulation/ventilation. Ensure vents aren't blocked.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): The attic reveals much about the roof's health, energy efficiency (insulation levels), and potential pest problems. Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and extends roof life.
Plumbing:
Task: Check under sinks, around toilets, and near the water heater for any signs of leaks or corrosion. Look for dripping faucets.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Even small leaks waste water and can cause significant hidden damage over time. Active leaks are always noted during inspections.
Safety Devices:
Task: Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Replace batteries (spring is a great time to do this annually!). Check expiration dates – most detectors need replacing every 7-10 years.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Functional smoke and CO detectors are non-negotiable safety items. Inspectors verify their presence and (often) test them.
Dryer Vent:
Task: Clean the lint trap after every use. Annually (or more often if needed), clean the entire dryer vent duct run from the dryer to the exterior termination point.
Why it Matters (Inspector's View): Lint buildup is a serious fire hazard and reduces dryer efficiency. Obstructed vents are a common safety finding.
Protect Your Investment with Preventative Care
Spending a weekend on spring maintenance might not sound exciting, but it's one of the best investments you can make in your home. It helps prevent costly repairs, improves safety and comfort, and keeps your property in top shape – something any future buyer (and their inspector!) will appreciate.
If you're considering buying or selling a home, or if you uncover issues during your spring check-up that concern you, MEJARO Inspection Services is here to help. Our comprehensive inspections provide a clear, unbiased assessment of a property's condition.
Stay proactive this spring! Your home will thank you for it.
Need a professional eye? Contact MEJARO Inspection Services today for your home inspection needs in the Bloomington area!
Request a Quote: www.mejaro.com/quote
Call Us: 888-400-2740
Email: info@mejaro.com
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