Each spring, we can’t help but step outside and survey the damage our Northern California winters have brought upon our homes. From worn siding to broken fixtures and spouts, inspecting what has passed and what has failed the test of winter is the first step to a healthy home. On behalf of the experts at Renewal by Andersen of Sacramento, we’ve put together our top five spring home maintenance tips to ensure your home stays comfortable, clean and secure for the remainder of the year.
Window interiors and exteriors
Leaky windows and patio doors will let in warm summer air and let out cool indoor air, so if you haven’t already installed Renewal by Andersen’s weathertight windows and doors, be sure to check that caulking and weather stripping have remained in place. If you experienced condensation inside the glass during winter, your weather seal has most likely been broken, and you’ll need to replace either the glass or the window. And don’t forget to spring clean your windows! Follow our signature steps to like-new windows.
Roof shingles and gutters
After the last frost, check on broken or damaged roof shingles and clean your gutters so they’re unclogged before the spring rains begin. Incorrect drainage can lead to water leaking indoors, in crawl spaces or along windowsills, leading to window mold. And don’t forget to look for missing shingles or hanging gutters. If your roof is old, start budgeting for repairs now as the summer sun can be quite damaging.
Leaky faucets and clogged drains
Check outside hose faucets for freeze damage, a common winter occurrence in Northern California. Turn the water on and place your thumb or finger over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water, it is likely that the pipe inside the home is damaged and will need to be replaced. While you’re at it, check the garden hose for dry rot and under the kitchen and bathroom sinks to make sure connections on pipes and hoses are properly sealed.
Sprinklers and concrete
Save water—and your garden!—by checking on sprinklers and irrigation systems in your front and backyard. Run the system through all the zones to ensure no heads are broken or damaged. Adjust any heads that are spraying on or near your windows—this can lead to moisture issues, condensation buildup and window failure. Be sure to inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement from shifting foundation or tree roots. Remember, all exterior slabs should drain away from your home.
Air conditioning unit and vents
Take care of your air conditioning unit or cooling system by changing the filters each season, and hire a licensed professional to service the equipment before the start of summer. It doesn’t hurt to hire a professional to clean and service the outside of the unit. Clean coils operate more efficiently, and seasonal maintenance will keep the system working at peak levels, contributing to the energy savings you might already be reaping thanks to your Renewal by Andersen windows. And when it comes to interior vents, be sure to replace them each season as well.
By following these spring home maintenance tips, you’re well on your way to enjoying a healthy, happy home for the rest of the year. But if you’d like to eliminate annual window maintenance from the to-do list, consider replacing your current windows and doors with our top-of-the-line ENERGY STAR® certified products. Schedule a no-cost, no-hassle consultation today.
