A Handyman’s 10-Hour Checklist for a Worry-Free Spring Season
The blooms are blooming here in the Treasure Valley. If you’re cracking open windows and clearing out linen closets, don’t forget to take care of the most commonly overlooked areas of your home (that make a big difference!). Here are a few areas we recommend servicing as our homes leave the winter season.
Not feeling ready to dedicate a weekend to another home project? We handle all of this and more with custom seasonal home care plans for WellKept Home Subscribers. Call to schedule!
Roof Inspection
Your roof is your first defense against weather. You might overlook it, but that could be costly later.
Inspect for Damage: Check for missing shingles and leaks. The freeze-thaw cycle can cause materials to crack.
Clean Debris: Remove leaves and branches. They can trap moisture and lead to rot.
Expected Project Time: 30 - 60 minutes
Gutter Cleaning
Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home. Clogged gutters can cause water damage, impacting your foundation and siding.
Remove Blockages: Clear leaves and dirt to prevent water overflow.
Check Downspouts: Ensure water flows away from your home. It stops basement flooding.
Expected Project Time: 1-2 hours - Shop our favorite gutter cleaning tool here
Caulking
Caulking seals gaps to keep out water and pests and keep your interior/exterior finishes protected.
Inspect Seals: Look at windows and doors. Gaps can let in water damage, drafts and insects.
Apply Fresh Caulk: Use quality products for long-lasting seals. Use minimal product for a cleaner look.
Expected Project Time: 1-2 hours. - Shop our preferred caulk here
Irrigation Startup and Sprinkler Checks
The summer sun comes quick in Boise. Make sure your sprinklers are turned on, damage free and covering the right areas of your lawn before the heat strikes.
Inspect Sprinklers: Check for clogs or damage. This keeps your lawn evenly watered.
Test the System: Run it for a full cycle. Look for leaks or uneven coverage.
Expected Project Time: 30 minutes - Shop our favorite sprinkler replacement heads here
HVAC Maintenance
Regular maintenance keeps energy costs down and improves the HVAC efficiency longterm.
Replace Filters: Do this every three months. Clean filters save energy and improve air quality.
Check for Issues: Listen for strange noises. They might signal a need for a professional check.
Expected Project Time: 5 minutes - Shop the filters we keep stocked for the whole year here (make sure to measure for your system’s size)
Deck/Patio Maintenance and Repair
Your deck is a great place to relax, but winter can take a toll from muddy paw prints to changing temperatures
Inspect for Damage: Look for loose boards and nails or cracks in the concrete
Clean and Seal: Power wash and apply sealant. This protects the surface from the elements longerterm.
Expected Project Time: 1 hour
Replace or Repair Window Screens
Nothing better than fresh after after a deep spring clean. Clean, undamaged screens not only look better, but keep dirt and bugs out of your home.
Inspect Screens: Look for tears and holes
Repair or Replace: Use kits for small fixes or replace the screen entirely for larger issues
Expected Project Time: 30 minutes