Your Checklist for Spring 2019 Home Maintenance

With Spring just around the corner (and we promise it really is), you may be eyeing those cobwebs on the ceiling and the dust bunnies along the baseboards. As you tackle that Spring cleaning list, don't forget your home's maintenance list, especially if yours is a Mansfield home for sale.

Our REALTORS® suggest checking through these key areas of your property, top to bottom:

• Roof and Gutters
  Spring is a good time to clean the roof and check for missing shingles,  rust or cracking, and of course, any leaking. Sometimes simply hammering the wayward shingle down and applying some caulk is enough, and sometimes you might need to call a professional. If you can't get on the roof yourself, using a pair of binoculars can get you started with your inspection. 
  
  At the same time you're giving the roof some attention, look over the gutters too. Clean out any leaves or debris. Look for leaks here also, as well as any place the gutters or downspouts may have pulled away from the house. Again, the caulk gun may be all you need to shore up the problem.
  
  
• Windows and Doors
  Homes are more attractive when the windows and doors shine. Your spring maintenance list should include a thorough cleaning along with fixing or repainting tired frames, replacing missing hardware, and patching broken screens. You especially need to make sure any weather stripping you have around the windows is in place and has a seal. 
  
  
• Porches, Patios, or Decks
  Once you've moved away from the door, take a good look at your outdoor gathering areas. Porches, patios, and decks give your home personality, but that can be marred if those areas are messy, cluttered, or needing repair. Wash the furniture, get rid of the clutter, and access whether wooden areas need to be re-stained. Especially check railings and stairs for safety concerns, and fix any loose boards or nails. 
  
  
• Yard
  Of course, spring is the time to get your green thumb out, but before you begin any new landscaping project, spruce up existing plants and grass. Trim any dead branches or shrubs. Also test out your sprinkler system, adjusting the sprinkler heads as needed. Finally, make note of what areas of your lawn will need extra love to get good and green, and start planning for spring lawn care. 
  
  
• Driveway
  For both asphalt and concrete driveways, start with a good cleaning using a strong brush and a hose. Next check to see if cracks need to be sealed. With asphalt driveways, you should reseal the entire thing every five years.

Taking care of your home on a regular basis could help you avoid costly repairs, and make it easier to sell when the time comes. If you need more advice on getting your home in tip-top shape for attracting buyers, contact us and our agents will be glad to help you.