As winter’s chill fades and Minnesota’s spring arrives, it’s time to give your home the attention it deserves. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs and ensuring your property stays in tip top shape. At Northway Home Inspection, we know a well-maintained home is easier to inspect—and easier to sell. Here’s your ultimate spring maintenance checklist to keep your home inspection-ready all year long.
1. Clean Your Gutters to Prevent Water Damage
Minnesota winters can leave gutters clogged with leaves, ice, and debris. Clearing them out ensures proper drainage and prevents water from seeping into your foundation. While you’re up there, check for leaks or sagging. Clean gutters are a green flag during a home inspection!
2. Inspect Your Roof: A Common Home Inspection Focus
Snow and ice can take a toll on Minnesota roofs. Look for cracked, loose, or missing shingles and inspect flashing around chimneys and vents. Addressing these issues now means fewer surprises during your next Northway Home Inspection.
3. Prepare Your HVAC System for Minnesota’s Summer Heat
Your air conditioning has been in hibernation all winter. Replace filters, clean vents, and consider a professional tune-up. A well-maintained HVAC system not only keeps you cool but also passes inspection with flying colors.
4. Seal Gaps to Keep Pests Out (and Your Energy In)
Minnesota’s warming weather brings out pests. Inspect windows, doors, and foundations for cracks. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal them. Keeping pests out is a small step that makes a big difference during an inspection by Northway Home Inspection.
5. Power Wash for Curb Appeal and a Cleaner Inspection
Power washing your siding, deck, and driveway removes mold and grime, boosting curb appeal and preventing decay. A clean exterior not only looks great but also helps inspectors spot potential issues more easily.
6. Test your sump pump
Fill your sump pump with water to allow the float mechanism to activate. You should see/hear the water get pumped out. If that doesn’t happen make sure it's plugged in, and if not it will need to be fixed or replaced.
7. Replace Smoke Detector Batteries for Safety
Spring forward, change your clocks—change those batteries too! Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working. Functioning alarms are a crucial part of every home inspection report.
8. Trim Trees and Shrubs to Protect Your Roof
Snow-laden branches can cause roof damage. Trim back any limbs hanging near your roof or power lines. A well-maintained yard not only enhances curb appeal, but can help protect your house.
9. Create a Spring Maintenance Calendar for Peace of Mind
Feeling overwhelmed? Break down these tasks over a few weekends. A maintenance calendar keeps you on track and helps prevent surprises during your next home inspection.
Regular maintenance is the key to a smooth home inspection and a stress-free sale. At Northway Home Inspection, we help Minnesota homeowners stay ahead of potential problems. A little time and effort now can save you money—and a lot of stress—later.
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