Springtime is perfect for tackling those indoor and outdoor cleaning tasks you have been putting aside all winter. While you might dread some of these items on the to-do list, taking care of them is important to keep your home in top condition and it will make you feel accomplished when it is done.
Outdoor spring-cleaning checklist
- Roof and gutters – Cleaning out your gutters and inspecting your roof shingles prior to the height of the summer rains are important. This is the time to make sure your gutters are clear of debris so rainwater can easily navigate out. If your gutters are filled with debris then the rainwater will overflow and can cause your gutters to sag. If you have loose roof shingles, they can cause water to leak through, so it is important to get these fixed before the heavier rains begin.
- Siding – You can rent or borrow a pressure washer to clean off any debris and mold buildup. Certain sides of your home, such as the north facing side, receive less sunlight to kill off the mold. If this isn’t cleaned off yearly then it will continue to grow and your siding will look worn and old. While you are cleaning your siding, it is the perfect time to look for any holes or damage to the rest of your house like the soffit or foundation.
- Deck, porch, and driveway – If your home has an outdoor patio, it should be inspected yearly for cracks or splinters in the wood. Now is also a good time to seal your deck, as well as any stone or asphalt surfaces that can get water damage.
- Windows and screening – Your windows not only get buildup from rain, but also from the grass being cut, and dirt, dust, and pollen blowing around outside. Inspect the screens for any rips, and check the window seals to make sure water and air can’t get in or escape out.
Indoor spring-cleaning checklist
- Furnace, ventilation, and dryer – If you can’t remember the last time you changed your furnace’s air filter, then it is probably long overdue. Dust the vent register covers carefully with a damp cloth, and check the vents for dust buildup. If you notice a lot of dust inside your vents, then it is time for them to be professionally cleaned. Contact us at Five Star to have your air ducts cleaned.
- Kitchen – Spring cleaning is the perfect time to carefully move your refrigerator and vacuum behind it for and dust and crumbs that have collected back there, and clean off the coils. Check your dishwasher’s hoses for damage, and your garbage disposal to make sure there aren’t any leaks. Deep clean the surfaces that are hard to reach, like above the cabinets, and wipe down your cabinets with your preferred cleaner for any dirt buildup—it will make them look brand new!
- Electrical – Test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to make sure they are working properly. If you haven’t changed the batteries in the last six months, now’s the time to do it.
- Air conditioner – If you haven’t had your air conditioning maintenance completed yet for the spring, now is the time to check this off your list before the heat of the summer kicks in. Many times, during routine maintenance the technician will find worn parts that are about to break, and these can be replaced before they cause you trouble. Contact Five Star today to schedule your routine maintenance!
All of these items take time to complete, but you will be happy after you tackle each one! At Five Star, we are happy to help with several of your spring-cleaning items. Contact us today for any of your plumbing, HVAC, electrical, insulation, and indoor air quality needs! We have convenient locations in Greenville, Spartanburg, Oconee, and Charleston, South Carolina, as well as Henderson, North Carolina, and surrounding areas.