Spring is well on its way and it’s just a matter of weeks before leaves start turning green and flowers begin to blossom. Unfortunately, with the lovely new life of spring comes a term less inviting: spring cleaning.
Why not get a head start this year on your spring cleaning and get it out of the way? Follow this checklist and make sure your house is spic and span for the rest of the year, all while taking care of any safety hazards along the way!
Inside the Home
Floors: 1. Vacuum both wood and carpet floors. 2. Shampoo carpet and rugs, and mop wood floors. 3. Wax non-wood floors (like vinyl and linoleum).
Dust and Wipe: 1. Dust all shelves and countertops, dusting any items on top (like books, pictures, decorative pieces, etc.) of each surface. 2. Dust and wipe your walls and ceilings. Be sure to get the hard-to-reach places, like the tops of your ceiling fans, where dust tends to collect. *TIP: A vacuum with a detachable hose can help reach high nooks and crannies!*
Safety and Maintenance: 1. Change the batteries in all fire alarms throughout the house. 2. Use a resealing agent on any grout to deter staining and damage. 3. Turn off the power to your refrigerator from the circuit/fuse box, and dust the refrigerator coils to prevent from hazards. 4. Update your first aid kit, replacing any items you have used or have expired throughout the year.
(For a more detailed list of steps for spring cleaning inside your home, visit Martha Stewart’s Spring Cleaning Guide)
Outside the Home
Electrical: 1. Inspect outdoor light fixtures for any damaged wires and connections. 2. Wash covers to outdoor light fixtures. 3. Have a qualified contractor clean and service the outside unit of your air conditioning system.
Roof and Chimney: 1. Inspect roof shingles for any damages that may have occurred over winter. If any shingles are cracked or loose, it’s time to have them replaced. 2. Examine the chimney’s exterior for damage and have the chimney swept by a professional. (If you’re living in DFW, try The Chimney Sweep for all your gutter, rain leak, and chimney needs!)
Prepare for Drainage and Flooding: 1. If there are any low areas in your yard next to your home’s foundation, fill this area with compacted soil to prevent flooding and damage. 2. Check gutters for any leaks or loose parts. Make sure the gutter is draining away from your home’s foundation.
Ground: 1. Check concrete slabs for any cracks or movement. Fill the cracks with concrete crack filler and seal the concrete when possible. 2. Make sure firewood is at least 18 inches off the ground and 2 feet away from your home.
(For more spring home maintenance tips, be sure to check out HGTV http://www.hgtv.com/home-improvement/a-few-tips-to-herald-the-arrival-of-spring/index.html)
