Looking Forward to Spring
Although we're still battling winter in the Philadelphia and Bucks County area, it's important to keep in mind that spring really is coming soon. Thinking about spring around the corner gives a big boost for our mental and emotional well being. It also reminds us of the many spring chores homeowners must take care of so we aren't caught unprepared -- especially after such a brutal winter filled with snow, wind and ice.
Winter Has Taken a Toll on Your Home
Just take a look at your car after snow has started to melt. It's filthy! Remember your house is just as filthy even though you may not notice it as much. Add the debris from wind and rain to the melting snow on your roof and your gutters are ripe for clogging. Clogging can cause the gutter to break, as well as allowing water to back up under the eaves and into your home.Spring Cleanup Is Needed for House and Lawn
Don't forget about the damage and danger of allowing melting snow and ice to remain on your roof.At the very least, assuming you somehow escaped the piles of snow atop your roof, your home needs the gutters cleaned and the siding power washed. Of course, your lawn is likely filled with sopping wet debris as well. A good landscaping company can help you out with all of that, including the mounds of snow melting on your roof. It's better to line up a service now than wait until the rush.
Once the snow and ice are gone, you'll need to check the roof for missing parts, leaks and soft spots. If you aren't sure you can check the roof safely, hire a professional roofer -- don't take chances.
Check your sidewalks, patios and driveway for cracks and weak spots, too. If you have pavement or retaining walls that are shared or adjoin other properties, you can find information about your responsibilities and obligations here. Here are a couple of informational articles about concrete, asphalt and winter weather:
http://www.coit.com/how-to-maintain-your-driveway-during-winter
http://www.bestpickreports.com/blog/post/when-cracks-attack-keep-your-driveway-safe-this-winter
Don't forget to consider sealing your driveway once the worst winter weather is definitely passed.
If you are too busy at work and with the kids to even consider any DIY efforts on the spring cleanup and maintenance outside, you might want to consider hiring a service for the inside as well! We all get overwhelmed with daily life, but spring cleaning isn't just an old timey notion -- it's very important to the value and comfort of your home. Check out CheckMaid; they have a 200% guarantee.
