5 Things to Check at Home After Winter

It has been a rather wet and snowy winter in and around Washington, DC, this year, and while housekeeping and maintenance can be time consuming, it is always easier to get ahead of problems before they become big issues. Just remember the truism that thoughtful maintenance is cheaper than repairs. Plus, not all homeowners insurance policies cover damages caused by lack of maintenance or general weather-related wear and tear.

This year, there has been a lot of moisture from rain and melting snow. Maybe you have noticed the creeks rise and fall. The temperatures have also bounced around quite a bit. Based on the past twenty years, that is not too unusual for this area, but you still have to be particularly vigilant about the effects it has on your home.

1) Walk the Foundation Perimeter

It has been a rather wet and snowy winter in and around Washington, DC, this year, and while housekeeping and maintenance can be time consuming, it is always easier to get ahead of problems before they become big issues. Just remember the truism that thoughtful maintenance is cheaper than repairs. Plus, not all homeowners insurance policies cover damages caused by lack of maintenance or general weather-related wear and tear.

This year, there has been a lot of moisture from rain and melting snow. Maybe you have noticed the creeks rise and fall. The temperatures have also bounced around quite a bit. Based on the past twenty years, that is not too unusual for this area, but you still have to be particularly vigilant about the effects it has on your home.

2) Check Your Roof and Windows

Check the roof for changes in the plane. Piles of snow or autumn debris can damage roofs, especially if that buildup is allowed to sit icy, wet, and heavy on a specific place and to weaken the roof. Call an expert roofer if necessary. It is cheaper than repairing a hole, and you can potentially save your personal belongings, some of which might have sentimental value.

Check your windows for cracks to seal. As the temperatures change, cracks happen. Get ahead of the mold and humidity by cleaning out condensation, dirt, and grime.

3) Check Your Gutters and Downspouts

This is a must, especially after fall and before the heavier spring rains. There is always one more leaf, right? You might be surprised what accumulates after winter weather, even if you completely vacuumed your gutters before the season! So, make sure those gutters don’t have any sticks or leaves in them. You always want the drains to flow freely.

Make sure downspouts direct water away from your house. You never want water pooling around the foundation of your home.

4) Check Your Sump Pumps

This is a simple thing that can save you a lot of potential heartache. Make sure all parts and switches work, that there isn’t any buildup, and that blockages haven’t occurred. If you’re at all unsure, test it. Replacing it will be way less expensive than repairing water damage that may not be covered by your homeowner’s insurance.

5) Check your yard.

Do you have divots or eroded slopes that could allow water to drain toward your home or to pool anywhere else? Be sure to fill these to avoid water damage to your home’s foundation, garden beds, or yard structures, such as sheds or even home play sets. Remember, pools of water are also mosquito breeding grounds, and no one wants that!

If you are a first-time homeowner or a first-time buyer, you might not have considered these risks before, but it’s crucial to perform these basic tasks. They can truly help you maintain your home and stay ahead of potential problems.

If you are looking to buy a home for the first time, call us today. We can help!