Tips for Spring Outdoor House Maintenance

Spring is finally here! The weather is getting warmer, and you may be looking forward to spending some time outside. Barbecues, gardening, and laying out in the sun are just around the corner. After a long winter, however, there are a lot of things to do around the house. Read further to find out about the spring home maintenance tips that you should carry out before enjoying the summer. Doing some maintenance now will help preserve your property’s value and prevent unwanted surprises.

Attic Ventilation and Insulation Inspection

The attic is an important part of the house that is often neglected. Start your spring maintenance by going into the attic and taking a look at the insulation. Check for mold and signs of water damage. You should also look closely for animal droppings – squirrels, mice, and raccoons like to nest in attics throughout the winter and spring. If there are signs of animals, contact a local pest remover for help.



The insulation should be dry, and the roof vents should be clear of debris so that air can flow in and out. If the insulation is contaminated by animal feces compressed by animal activity, then you should consider attic insulation removal and re-installation. Clean insulation will improve the overall air quality in your home and getting insulation to the appropriate levels will ensure that your home is adequately insulated.

Roof Inspection

Homeowners should check the roof every spring for signs of damage. Holes in the roof may lead to bigger problems such as wildlife intrusions and leaks. Look for torn or missing shingles, then check all soffit intersections for damage. With time, the soffits and edges of the roof may split away from the framing of the house, creating openings. Seal cracks with caulking and make all necessary repairs. Examine the roof vents and gable vents closely to ensure that the attic is getting proper ventilation. Be sure to use caution and approach the roof safely when performing an inspection.

Eavestrough Maintenance

Clear your eavestroughs of debris and ensure that water flow is not obstructed. Simply scoop the leaves and debris out of your eavestroughs, then test the flow of your downspouts with a hose. You should also ensure that your gutters have no holes in them and that they are not falling away from the house. Problems that result from poorly maintained eavestroughs may include basement flooding and damage to the foundation.

Wall Vents and Weep Vents

Wall vents are important for air flow, so they should be kept clean and in good working order. Check if they have chew marks on them or any holes in their screening – rats and mice can use wall vents to reach the indoors. Inspect all wall features to ensure there are no cracks or crevices that could allow for moisture or pests to penetrate. To keep pests out, consider capping your wall vents with mesh.

Foundation Inspection

Do a walk around the house to look for gaps and cracks in the foundation. Check under the deck, as well. Many cracks are formed as the house settles and pose no structural threat, but they should be sealed to prevent leaks and pest entry. Seal these cracks with an epoxy sealer or silicone caulking. If you come across a new crack in the foundation, monitor it and call an expert if the crack expands within six months. Larger cracks should also be examined by a professional.

Yard Maintenance

Keep front and back yards clear of debris to avoid animals nesting or making a mess. Get rid of any leaf piles, grass cuttings, or weeds surrounding the walls of the home. Regularly check under decks and around sheds for signs of damage. Raccoons, skunks, and other pests like to live under these structures, so it is important that you seal them from the outside. Avoid leaving any food out in the yard, including fallen fruit and garbage.

Spring is an excellent time to do some much-needed maintenance. Making repairs is much easier to do when the weather is warm, and you will get to enjoy the benefits of your hard work this summer. Completing these spring home maintenance tips each year will identify issues before they have gotten out of control, saving you money and stress in the long run.

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