10 Things to do to your home this spring.

Ah, spring has sprung! And now it’s time to see how rough winter was on your home. Once the freezing temperatures disappear, it’s a good time to check how your home withstood the season. Constant maintenance is always better, than waiting till absolutely necessary. 

Examine your current home insurance coverage- or have a high performance broker/agent

It’s also a good time for you to connect with your homeowners insurance agent to make sure you have the coverage you need for spring weather,  hurricanes and other sources of potential damage. For many people, their home is their biggest asset, so examining your current home insurance coverage is important as the severe spring weather season approaches, which is always followed by hurricane season. 

1.) Inspect your roof- This is especially important if you notice any leaks, loose shingles or metal. You want to make sure your roof is in good shape for the spring rains, and hurricane season.

2.) Fix all ceiling stains - Did your roof leak? You might see a yellow or brown stain. If so, first fix the leak before sealing the stain with a sealer/primer then apply a coat or two of paint. Moisture problems can lead to mold or mildew build-up, so fix them quickly before you have a bigger problem on your hands.

3.) Inspect windows and doors- Things to look for on doors include bent or broken hinges, frames or edges. Depending on the extent of the damage, you can either repair or replace the door. Also, check screens for holes before you swap out your storm panels. 

4.) Consider resealing your driveway- A lot of water seeps into driveways during the winter, which can create cracks when it freezes and then thaws. If you notice a lot of cracks, consider having it resealed to prevent further cracking. 

5.) Seal your deck every few years- If your deck is worn-down, have it pressure washed and resealed. 

6.) Check your fences- Power wash and clean your fence. Repair or replace any loose slats or rot on your fences. Double check to make sure they aren't loose or need further repair. Think about possibly staining as an upgrade. 

7.) Clean gutters and downspouts- Leaves can weigh down and break gutters. Grab a pair of gloves, a sturdy ladder and a towel to clear any leaves and debris out. Call a professional if you're not comfortable on your own.

8.) Apply caulk to leak-prone areas- Expansion and contraction can cause openings that will let spring rains seep in. Seal it up by applying exterior caulk to leak-prone areas like windows and areas of siding where walls join. 

9.) Inspect outside faucets and hoses, sprinkler systems- Turn them on to ensure water is still running as it should. If you can stop the flow with your thumb, the water pressure may be too low and pipe inside or on your property may need to be fixed

10.) Does your house need paint? Inspect siding, hardy board or bricks that may need to be caulked and or repaired. Make sure to scrape any peeling or cracking paint, sand and repaint. 

Insurance companies like to see a well maintained home, or pride of ownership. These helpful hints will always have your house in tip top shape and ready for whatever mother nature throws at you. We are always here to help, questions, quotes, need advice? Give us a call.