Get Ahead of Problems with these Spring Preparation Tips
Posted on February 23, 2017 by Advance Companies
If you can believe it, spring is just around the corner. We’ve reached mid-February and have managed not to freeze. Once we turn the corner and dive into March, it’ll be time to start thinking about spring projects, many of which you’re happy to do because you can hang out in the garage. But not all projects are good projects- like fixing your sump pump after discovering it’s malfunctioned, after you’ve encountered some flooding. What should you be doing now, in order to avoid that situation? We have some ideas.
Examine Your Roof
Check for damaged shingles as soon as possible. Snow and ice– especially over the course of several months, even years if your roof is aging– can easily damage roof shingles. Closely examine your roof and replace not only broken shingles, but also those that are worn and damaged. Examine chimneys, and skylights for damage. Hire a qualified roofer for these projects. If you let it slide, your roof is bound to worsen as the summer sun beats down on it.
What does that mean for you?
Well, if you skip this important spring preparation tip, you might encounter some leakage at some point during those summer showers. A leaky roof can lead to mold growth and peeling paint, which no one want to deal with, right?
Clean and Repair Gutters/Downspouts
This cannot be understated. Cracked, warped, or rusty gutters will not function properly when late spring showers and summer rain make their way to your neighborhood. Check for cracks and damage and make the appropriate fixes. Check downspouts for see that they direct water an adequate distance away from the house. Flooding, as it pertains to general rain showers and storms, can largely be avoided with properly functioning gutters and downspouts.
What does that mean for you?
Heavy rainfall, or buildup in gutters can lead to a literal cave in. Check the age of your home to see what you can expect from your roof in the future. If you have buildup in those gutters or downspouts, the added weight on your roof can cause some much-needed restoration eventually.
Service Your AC Unit
Have a qualified technician out to your home or business for a full air conditioner unit inspection. Having it inspected annually will keep the unit(s) running efficiency. Clean and change your filters annually. You can also consider purchasing a new AC unit, or upgrading your thermostat to a Nest to really help your machine work better, not harder.
What does that mean for you?
Having a new or recently tuned AC unit will help your spring and summer stay cool, and avoid future unexpected bills!
Perform Maintenance on your Sump Pump
Your sump pump has probably been out of use with subfreezing temperatures. That will likely change with spring showers. Perform routine maintenance on your pump, as you should annually. First, fill up your pump basin to the top with water. Your pump should immediately begin to run. Once the trial run is finished, remove the pump and clean out debris from the grate found underneath. Dirt and debris can collect and clog your pump.
Note: Head outside and make sure your pump is pushing water away from the house at an adequate distance.
What does that mean for you?
Should an unexpected heavy rainfall cause some minor flooding in your basement, you can rest assured that you can easily take care of it. A sump pump is invaluable in the event of a flood or heavy leak.
Inspect Concrete Slabs
The way that concrete is mixed allows for a certain amount of water to fill in the pores. That means that during the winter your concrete can expand from the extra water, which causes cracks. Inspect concrete slabs for movement and cracks. Concrete should drain water away from your home or business’s foundation. Fill cracks with sealer or silicone caulk. Power wash your concrete before filling.
What does that mean for you?
Consider switching out that old concrete for a newer layer on top. Otherwise, you might have a bigger crack that can cause an eventual pothole. Bad for tires, or children playing on concrete.
Don’t Forget the Spring Cleaning
Everyone always says that they want to do some cleaning and get rid of excess stuff in the spring, but we know that many people really just don’t do that, right? Our only recommendation is that if you have a lot of excess boxes in your attic, consider getting rid of what you can because this can prevent weakening of home supports.
At Advance Companies, we’re happy to get your home ready for spring, whether you’re need of restoration, construction, or other services. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.
