Spring has sprung! We love warmer days, but the change of season can put your home at an increased risk for weather-related damage. We’ve put together some spring maintenance tips to keep you safe in the midst of melting snow and unpredictable temperature swings. Follow these steps to enjoy the season without worry!

1. Clean your gutters.
   As the snow melts and rain begins, it’s more important than ever that your gutters properly drain water from your roof. If they become clogged, water can build up and cause pressure damage and leaks.Thankfully, cleaning your gutters can usually be done in under an hour. With a ladder and a helping hand, you’ll be good to go in no time.
2. Check your roof.
   While you’re cleaning out your gutters, give your roof a quick once-over. Make sure no shingles are loose and no debris is stuck that could eventually fall down to clog your drainage system.If you notice any problems, reach out to a professional immediately. Your roof is integral to your home’s protection, so potential damage is nothing to play around with.
3. Seal holes and cracks.
   Winter is tough on your home’s exterior. Do a lap and make sure the cold season didn’t leave behind any holes where pests could get in — even small cracks can invite termites and other creepy-crawlies.Small openings can be closed with a cheap spray can of foam, while anything bigger should be addressed professionally just to be safe.
4. Examine your air conditioning unit and ducts.
   To ensure your home is ready to cool down when the temperature rises, check that your air conditioning unit is in top shape. You should wash or change the filters, clean the coils, and wipe down the outside unit if necessary.You should also take a look at your ducts and consider getting them professionally cleaned. Indoor air pollution is one of the greatest environmental threats to Americans, and it can be easy to miss dust accumulation on your own.
5. Inspect your windows.
   To keep cool air in and moisture out, you’ll want to make sure your windows are completely sealed. Check each one carefully and replace the caulking if necessary.This is a quick, easy process that helps keep energy costs low as you run your air conditioning — and it helps prevent any mold growth from accumulating in your walls.
6. Replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries.
   When everything goes as it should, it’s easy to forget we even have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors — but more than a third of deadly blazes happen in homes without working smoke alarms. We all know the havoc fire and smoke damage can wreak, and now is the perfect time to check and replace their batteries.

Sources:
US News
Washington Post
Family Handyman