Hello neighbor! We hope this finds you and yours safe and well – and at home!
Like tens of millions of other homeowners nationwide, you are sheltering in place due to the Coronavirus. If you’ve binged through all the good shows, tapped out on all your online games, we have an idea that may pay off long after the crisis is over. Why not conduct a spring home inspection?
Below we provide a checklist of some inspection tasks you might consider.
SPRING HOME inspection TASK list
Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure gutters and downspouts are free of debris and damage, but only if you are fit and can access gutters safely. Be sure you are using a reliable ladder placed on stable ground. Risking an injury during this shut-down is a bad idea given how crowded the hospitals are, so please only do this if you are confident you can do it safely.
Inspect Caulking Around Doors and Windows
Experts recommend replacing the caulk around windows and doors each spring, as cold temperatures can cause cracks, which can allow air to leak in and out of your home. You can order window and door caulk from online stores including Amazon, Home Depot and others. Hate to use a caulking gun? There are many products that come with an easy to use applicator. Be sure to select caulk specifically designed for doors and windows and pay attention to the color of the caulk.
Inspect Wood Decking, Railings, and Steps
Carefully inspect all exterior wood for rot, warping, curling, peeling, or splinters all of which can lead to instability and may lead to danger for you, your family, and your guests. If all you need is a coat of sealant, that too can be ordered online.
Pressure Wash Decks, Patios, and Driveways
Power wash away mildew, moss, and stains from hard surfaces around your home. Not only will your home look better, you may also prevent accidents caused by slippery walking surfaces.
Clean and Inspect Window Screens
Wash down your window screens to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Tip: If you remove multiple screens to be taken outside for cleaning, label each so you know which screen goes back to which window. Trust me, you will be glad you did, especially if you have a lot of windows.
Inspect Your Basement and Crawl Space
Look for signs of moisture, mildew, or mold. Not all moisture problems can be resolved without a contractor but you won’t know until you track down the problem. It may be you find it is an easy fix, like a slow leaking kitchen or powder room sink above. If you find moisture is seeping in through the walls or floor, there are lots of moisture barrier products that can be used temporarily until a contactor can be engaged.
Check Your Laundry Room
Inspect your laundry room. Be sure to test your wash sink drain and check the water supply connections to your appliances. Make note of any moisture, mold, or mildew and attempt to track to the source. Is your dryer exhausting outside? Is the duct clear of obstructions?
Inspect Your Attic
We recommend you do an annual attic inspection. An annual attic inspection can help prevent ice dams, moisture issues, damaged insulation, and detect rodent activity early before costly damage is done to your home. Keep in mind, if you do have problems, not all of them may be something you can tackle without a contractor – but you will be aware of the problem so once this Covid-19 drama is over you can have us out to help address any problems you do find.
Now before going up into the attic, you need to ask yourself a few questions. Have you heard strange noises at night that could be animals on your roof, or in your attic space? If so, please put off the attic inspection until you get a professional consult. Click here to read more about attic infestations>
Assuming you don’t have an attic infestation, you will want to inspect your attic for any signs of moisture or mold. Look at the roof sheathing, and other wood structures – are their gray, tan, or black stains? Dark staining can be a sign of mold. Do not attempt to address a mold problem on your own, but do make a note of it. It should be addressed as soon as possible. Click here for more information about attic mold>
Look for any signs of moisture damage to your insulation? Click here to learn more about attic moisture>
Inspect Grout in Bathrooms
Check the grout in your bathrooms including tile, counters, shower enclosures, bathtubs. Replace grout that is cracked or discolored. Check tile flooring. Is it in good shape? Is it discolored? If not, it isn’t hard to clean up and reseal the grout to prevent moisture damage from seeping beneath the tile. While you are there, check under each sink and inspect for leaks.
Replace Batteries in Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
If you did not replace the batteries in these important appliances when the clocks changed a few weeks back, it is a good idea to add this important task to your list. If your smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are over 10 years old, you should replace them. You can order batteries and replacement detectors online too!
You know your home best – Add to Your List
This is just a sampling of things you can do to ensure your home is in tip-top shape. If you have maintenance tasks you have put off for a while, why not tackle them now? Once we get the okay to leave, I don’t know about you, but we are getting out of the house!
HERE TO ANSWER QUESTIONS AND SCHEDULE FUTURE APPOINTMENTS
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call us at 630.830.3870
SPECIAL NOTE:
We want to take a moment to recognize all the first responders, nurses, doctors, interns, maintenance workers, and all those making it possible for the rest of us to get food and supplies during this crisis, THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU! We do appreciate the sacrifice you are making for our benefit!