Spring Cleaning
Ah, finally it’s Spring! Nothing like it. The time when the flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, & the furnace filter needs replaced. We all know you’ve been hiding in your home since Mariah Carey first assaulted the airways & the holidays officially began, so now it’s time to get your house in tip-top shape to re-emerge into society (into Bridgerton rn).
Worry not, we have compiled a list to help you tackle the chores!
1. Wash windows
Get those windows sparkling more than Kate Keller’s engagement ring the week she got it & cleaned it 20 times a day. This allows stagnant air to move out & aerate your home. Check out some tips for cleaning here. Make sure to open them up & get into the sills as well. Another tip from Alyssa - after cleaning away all the dirt, spray some rubbing alcohol on the window and wipe off to get a super crystal clear window pane.
2. Inspect roof
Take a look for missing or damaged shingles & any signs of leaking or cracking. As my father would want me to say, always make sure your ladder is stable. If you are really channeling your inner Monica Geller, clean algae or moss off by applying solution of equal parts bleach & water. Wait 15 mins & rinse off. Never pressure wash or scrub as you could damage the shingles (or damage your body and/or ego trying to get a pressure washer on the roof).
3. Clean gutters & downspouts
Reattach sagging gutters and prevent leaks by caulking any holes. Make sure downspouts are facing away from home to flow water away from house. While you’re at it, build up the grading around your foundation to really make sure no water is intruding. Bring it April showers.
4. Give your HVAC some love
The AC is getting ready to put the team on its back for the coming months. Remove debris from around the unit, replace filters, & clean ducts and vents. Replace clogged filters!! Clogged filters can lead to lower air quality (ew) & higher energy consumption ($$). We recommend scheduling a professional HVAC technician to check system’s efficiency, coolant levels, & address any issues. It’s cool to be cool.
5. Test sprinklers
Schedule company to professionally turn on sprinklers or DIY. Either way, test the sprinklers to ensure they are in working order & not watering sidewalks, driveway, etc. Green grass, so in right now.
6. Wash off porch furniture
Get that chase lounger ready for sunbathing & margarita drinking.
7. Head to the basement
Investigate for any signs of moisture (leaks, water stains, mold) and get your dehumidifier ready to rock and roll.
8. Safety Checks
Change batteries in smoke alarms & carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure fire extinguishers have the needle in the green zone & exhaust fans are working. Safety first (though it technically is 8th on this list I suppose) …
9. Get your lawn & landscaping in order
[9.1] Trim overgrowth, tidy flowerbeds. [9.2] Rake lawn deeply to get rid of thatch & dead grass. [9.3] Prepare flower beds by getting rid of weeds. [9.4] Plant some pansies!
10. Put away winter items
[10.1] Clear out that garage. [10.2] Put snow boots in storage & transition sweaters out of your top drawers & prime closet real estate. [10.3]Take your ice scrapper out of your car. Disclaimer: don’t hate me if it snows again, I’m no Chuck Lofton!
11. Buy some Zyrtec & wait for the warm weather in your well-maintained home!
As always, if you need contractor recommendations, let us know.
XO
