Old man winter is ready to retire for another season so we can think about getting out of doors once again. Now its time to inspect your home's exterior for any cold weather damage and get ready to spruce up the yard.
Repair winter damage. Check gutters for sagging or leaks. Check for loose window frames or siding, deteriorating concrete or brickwork. Inspect roof for missing shingles, or water damage under eaves or soffits. Schedule repairs promptly.
Yard work. Clear away fallen branches and leaves. Using a mulching mower will spread grass clippings evenly over the lawn and provide a natural fertilizer. Aerate and fertilize as necessary. Loosen the soil around perennials; plant annuals or a vegetable garden. Prune shrubs and trees as needed. Be careful with very young trees and shrubs as pruning during time of new growth may irreparably damage them. Consult a local nursery first.
Patch and paint. Check exterior walls for holes or cracks; patch and paint as necessary.
Fans and air conditioners. Clean fan blades using mild soapy water. Check the central air-conditioning unit for debris and obstructions; vacuum the main condenser coil on top of the unit. Check the operating condition of window air-conditioning units; remove covers and wash filters in mild soapy water.
Turn on outdoor water supply. Hook up the garden hose and inspect it for cracks or leaks. Replace old washers. Test your automatic sprinkler system.
Clean windows. Wash windows, screens, and windowsills; repair any winter damage.
Check exhaust fans and vents. Make sure all exhaust fans and vents are clean and clear. Remove lint buildup from the clothes dryer vent.
Remove winter ashes. Clean ashes from your fireplace's firebox into ash pit or into a dustpan. Clean and lightly oil fireplace tools. Remove ashes from wood-burning stoves and inspect all moving parts and gaskets to make sure they seal tightly.
Condition your deck. Inspect for any loose nails. Consider replacing them with galvanized deck screws. Replace any broken boards or rails. Rent a power washer to clean dirt and mildew from the wood, then apply an all-weather sealer or stain. Clean patio furniture and barbecue grills.
Check fences and pool. Repair broken fence boards. Paint or seal them as needed. Clean the pool if it has been covered all winter.
Spring cleaning. Dust interior walls and ceilings to remove cobwebs and wash any grimy areas. Dust or wash registers. Wash window curtains or remove drapes for dry cleaning. Clean rugs and carpeting. Dust and polish wood or laminate floors. Polish woodwork. Clean the garage and bring out the garden tools and lawn mower.
Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. A great reminder for this is the start of daylight savings time. Change the batteries when you set your clocks forward.
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