March is here! With the onset of spring, most of us have a routine for spring cleaning once we open up the house from winter. But — there’s important work to be done outside the exterior of your home as well. Especially in colder climates, the fluctuation in temperatures, ice, and melting snow are all factors that contribute to wear and tear on your home.

Here are our top 5 spring cleaning ideas to help keep your home exterior in its best shape.

1. Check your roof for damage

The best time to find a roof problem is before it becomes an issue. Take the time to pull out your ladder and look for any shingle problems that might have developed during the winter from ice dams. From the University of Minnesota housing technology department: “An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow (water) from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and other areas.” Read more from This Old House about how to prevent ice dams next winter.

2. Make sure all windows are opening and closing properly

After locking your windows all winter, check to make sure they’re functioning as they should. You might need to clean or lubricate the sliding tracks to make windows open and close more easily.

Wood windows swell when they”re damp or air humidity is high, making them tough to operate. For casement windows, debris can built up in the window track, or the moving parts may need to be cleaned and lubricated or replaced. Read more from Popular Mechanics about the most common window problems.

While you’re checking the windows, take note of any drafts. The glass panes or the weatherstripping under the sash may need to be replaced. Not only will this help your energy bills in the winter, but it will help keep the cool air in during the summer months.

3. Install your window and patio door screens

It won’t be long before that first beautiful spring day is here. It’s better to be ahead of the game and address any screen issues now, before you want all that fresh spring air rotating through your home. Check for damage or holes, as well as a tight seal around the installation. Bugs, birds, frogs and more are best observed outside the home, right?

4. Clean out your gutters from fall leaves

Despite the best of intentions in fall cleanup, your gutters have probably accumulated a few leaves this winter. You’ll also want to make sure all downspouts are clear to allow maximum flow during the snow melts and spring rains.

5. Check deck railing and stairs

Take the time to look over and test the strength of your deck railings and stair railings. Wood-built decks can shrink and swell from water throughout the year. As you enjoy barbecues and parties during the spring and summer, you’ll want to make sure it’s safe for all your guests. Bring a hammer and screwdriver along as well to drive in any nails or screws that may have popped above the surface. Your toes will thank you!

The steps laid out above won’t take long to complete. But your house will thank you for giving it the TLC it needs to function at its best — and you can likely save yourself some money on costly repairs.

If you have any questions about products or for a free estimate, contact us at our website, hvext.com.