After months of wind, snow and ice, spring maintenance should be on your mind to prevent lasting damage to your home.
Your spring upkeep should serve two purposes. The first is to assess and address any damage that occurred over the winter. And the second, of course, is to make sure your home is ready for the warmer weather to come.
If you own a newly built home, seasonal maintenance is especially important because it helps protect your warranty. New homes in Ontario come with a builder’s warranty that lasts up to seven years from the date of possession. However, if you neglect to do the regular maintenance your home needs, any resulting damage may not be covered.
To help you kickstart your spring maintenance, here is a handy month-by-month checklist:
March
- Clean the furnace filter, heat recovery ventilator and humidifier.
- Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries if necessary.
- Check and reset any ground fault circuit interrupters once a month.
- Check the attic for roof leaks, water damage or insulation issues.
- Check the sump pump (if applicable).
- Remove snow and ice from the roof overhang and vents to prevent ice damming and water damage.
April
- Check eavestroughs and downspouts for damage or blockage.
- Inspect the basement or crawlspaces for leaks.
- Check the roof for loose or cracked shingles.
- Check driveways and walkways for frost damage.
- Check your water heater for leaks.
- Turn on the exterior water supply.
- Plan landscaping in a way that will avoid soil settlement and water collecting near your home’s foundation.
May
- Inspect fences for weather-related or other damage.
- Check caulking for air and water leaks.
- Check exterior finishes for wear that requires attention.
- Check that windows and screens are operating properly.
- Check the septic system if you have one.
