Let's Think Spring

If you’re tired of snow, snow, and more snow, it may help if you remember that spring is just a few weeks away. Of course, thinking spring can also bring on thoughts of all those outdoor chores you’ve been able to avoid all winter, so they may not be all that pleasant. But those jobs have got to be done, so here’s a checklist.

Check the exterior your house for damage that winter weather may have caused, like cracks or chips in the siding. Go up to the attic and see if any leaks have sprung during the winter months. Your spring cleaning checklist should also include a washdown of your siding if your house has it. If the house isn’t too big, you can do this yourself with a garden hose. A power wash by a pro will set you back about $300. If you have a fireplace and you used it on cold winter nights, have the chimney checked and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep. Get rid of any ashes left in the fireplace too; they can soak up moisture, which can cause damage to the fireplace.

Your lawn may look brown when the snow clears but that layer of dead grass needs to be removed so the green stuff has a chance to grow. Rent a power thatcher to get rid of the top layer or hire a professional lawn service to do it for you. And while you’re thinking ahead, think summer. Have your air conditioning checked before you actually need to turn it on.