10 Spring Home Maintenance Tips

With winter’s cold giving way to the warmth of spring, it’s the perfect time to give your home some much-needed attention. Spring brings longer days and blooming flowers, making it ideal for tackling those home-maintenance tasks. From cleaning gutters to testing smoke alarms, these tips will keep your home safe and functional while helping you avoid expensive repairs down the road. By staying on top of maintenance tasks now, you can protect the resale value of your property.

 

Our 10 Spring Home-Maintenance Tips

1. Clean and inspect gutters and downpipes

2. Check the roof for damage

3. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

4. Service air-conditioning and heating systems

5. Refresh the exterior

6. Inspect taps and pipes

7. Declutter and organise storage spaces

8. Clean dryer vents and exhaust fans

9. Schedule a termite inspection

10. Deck and patio maintenance

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1. Clean And Inspect Your Gutters And Downpipes

Autumn leaves often clog gutters and downpipes, causing poor drainage. Clean them to prevent water damage and make sure water flows away from your home’s foundation. Check for any cracks in your downpipes after cleaning.

2. Check The Roof For Damage

Check your roof for any damages made during winter, like cracked tiles or loose metal sheets. If you notice leaks in the ceiling or attic, address them immediately. A small leak can turn into a costly repair if ignored. Call a professional if you find any potential problems, as roof inspections are important for long-term maintenance.

3. Test Smoke Alarms And Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke alarms are mandatory in Australian homes. Test them, change the batteries if necessary, and replace any alarms older than 10 years. This is not only important for safety but also a requirement for home insurance.

Homes with gas heaters should also have carbon monoxide detectors. These can be silent killers, so don’t forget to test them regularly.

4. Service Your Air-Conditioning And Heating Systems

With warmer weather on the way, it’s important to ensure your air-conditioning system is working efficiently. Clean or replace air filters and check that vents are clear – clean filters can reduce energy use by up to 15%. Regular servicing improves efficiency and can also extend the life of your system.

5. Refresh The Exterior

After winter, give your home’s exterior a thorough clean by pressure washing walls, cleaning windows, and trimming plants. Be mindful of garden beds and plants, keep some space between them and the house to avoid termites. Also, inspect for any damage, such as peeling paint, cracked weatherstripping or loose handles, and make necessary repairs. Keeping the exterior fresh not only enhances curb appeal but also prevents bigger issues down the line.

6. Inspect Taps And Pipes

Cold weather can cause pipes to burst or taps to develop leaks. Check all taps, pipes and toilets for any signs of water damage or leaks. Fix any minor drips and make sure outdoor taps and hoses survived the winter weather without damage.

7. Declutter And Organise Storage Spaces

Spring cleaning goes beyond the usual tidying. Tackle clutter in your garage, shed and other storage areas to create a more organised, functional space. By decluttering and tidying up, you’ll free up room for everyday items and make it easier to keep things neat throughout the year.

8. Clean Dryer Vents And Exhaust Fans

Lint buildup in dryer vents is a fire hazard, so make it a habit to clean the lint trap after every use. It’s also a good idea to clean the dryer vent thoroughly a few times a year. Don’t forget to check and clean other exhaust fans in your home as well, such as those in the bathroom or kitchen, as dust can block them and affect their efficiency.

9. Schedule A Termite Inspection

Termites are a major issue in Australia. Spring is the time when termites become most active, so schedule an inspection to check for any signs of infestation. Prevention is key, and addressing any issues now will help avoid expensive repairs later.

Consider termite treatments or barriers as part of regular maintenance, especially if you live in high-risk areas such as coastal regions, the northern parts of Australia, or even urban areas with poor drainage and excess moisture.

10. Deck And Patio Maintenance

As the weather warms, your outdoor living spaces should be ready for use. Give your deck a quick inspection for any signs of wear, such as loose boards, cracked timber, or protruding nails, which can pose safety hazards. Power wash your deck and apply a fresh coat of stain or sealant to shield the wood from weather. For added protection, consider using water-based products, which require less maintenance over time.

Don’t forget to check hidden timber areas, such as fascia boards and cladding, to ensure there’s no peeling paint. Lastly, inspect the deck’s support fixings, especially where the deck meets brickwork, as these can corrode. Adding extra stainless-steel fixings can help prevent structural issues and keep your deck safe and sturdy.

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Tap Into Your Home Equity To Fund Maintenance

Spring is the perfect time to tackle home-maintenance tasks that keep your property in top shape. Tapping into your home’s equity provides the financial flexibility to handle necessary repairs and upgrades without impacting your immediate savings.

At Home Loan Experts, we can help unlock your equity so you can use it to make sure your home is in good shape. Call us 1300 889 743 or enquire online for free today.