Spring Home Maintenance Tips

Woman cleaning exterior windows of home. Zenith Properties NW in Clark County WA shares some helpful spring home maintenance tips.

It’s been a long, cold, rainy winter. After your home has somewhat hunkered down and been exposed to the elements, it’s now time to give it attention, preparing it for warmer days ahead.

Home Maintenance Tips Inside

  • Clean HVAC system and replace filters to improve efficiency and improve indoor air quality
  • Clean or replace window screens to prevent pests
  • Inspect basement or crawl space for leaks/moisture
  • Ensure sump pump is working properly
  • Inspect washing machine hoses and remove lint build up in the dryer

Home Maintenance Tips Outside

  • Clean gutters and downspouts for proper drainage
  • Trim back shrubs that are near the home
  • Inspect caulking around windows and doors for signs of damage
  • Touch up paint, stain, or wood finish
  • Inspect wooden railings, stairs, and decks for wood rot
  • Pressure wash siding and soffits
  • Pressure wash driveway, decks, and patios
  • Tune up landscaping equipment
  • Remove debris from foundation vents and window wells
  • Inspect roof, looking for signs or damaged or missing shingles and loose flashing
  • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned
  • Wash exterior windows to keep glass clean and clear

Spring maintenance is important for homes. It improves its efficiency and helps decrease the need for repairs and replacement. Caring for your home will ensure it continues to keep your family safe and comfortable. We hope these tips help as you spring clean your home this year.

Looking for a Rental Property?

If you’re looking for a new rental property or a home to buy in Clark County, WA, Zenith Properties NW is here for you. We’re a premier property management company serving all of Clark County, WA. Our knowledgeable staff provides a variety of property management and real estate services to the community. Contact us today to start looking for your new home or view our website to look at available properties.

Winter Maintenance Tips for Your Home

Decorated snowman with the text winter maintenance tips. Zenith Properties serving Clark County WA talks offers helpful winter maintenance tips for renters and homeowners.

Winter is fast approaching and whether you own a home or are renting, it’s time to prepare your home for colder temperatures. Follow these helpful tips from Zenith Properties to ensure your home is energy efficient and safe for when Old Man Winter hits.

Insulate

Having your home insulated will make a big impact on the comfort of your home (in both summer and winter) and will improve your energy efficiency, reducing your electricity and gas bills.

Block Drafts

In addition to insulation, sealing around your doors and windows will also make a big difference in your heating. Walk around your home, inspecting windows and doors. Weatherstripping and caulking can wear down over time and cause warm air to escape.

Consider Upgrading Appliances

If your budget allows for it, invest in new and updated appliances. Modern HVAC systems and tankless water heaters are drastically more energy efficient compared to their older counterparts.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Although gutters and downspouts are often forgotten, not maintaining them can cause a host of problems. Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to soil erosion, foundation cracks, and standing water–which attracts pests. They can also affect the integrity of your roofing.

Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Lowering your thermostat settings at night and when you’re not home can save you on heating costs. To make this more convenient, you may want to consider installing a programmable thermostat. Just maintain a temperature of no lower than 65 degrees to help prevent pipes from freezing.

Weatherproof Exterior Pipes

Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. Frozen pipes can crack and burst, causing thousands of dollars in damage. Shut off your outside pipes at the mains and ensure they’re drained, including your irrigation system. Cover your spigots with insulated faucet covers. They’re affordable and found at most hardware stores.

Prepare for Storms

Winter brings rain, sleet, and snow. Make sure you have the tools necessary to keep you safe and comfortable, such as sand bags, salt, snow shovels, and a generator.

Get Your Chimney Cleaned

If you have a fireplace, you’ll want to have it cleaned by a professional. Creosote buildup, leaves, and bird nests can create fire hazards.

Flush Your Water Heater

Sediment can accumulate at the bottom of your water heater, creating hot spots that can damage the tank in gas water heaters or cause the heating element to fail in electric-powered ones. You’ll want to drain your water heater at least once a year or hire a plumber to do it for you as part of regular maintenance.

Inspect Your Roof

Your roof isn’t there for just looks. It protects your home from the elements. Give your roof a good inspection to identify loose or missing shingles.

Whether you own a home or are renting, preparing your home for the winter months can save you a lot of time and stress and keep your family safe and comfortable.

Hopefully these winter maintenance tips will help you get prepared for the cold weather (and possible snow) that comes with our Pacific Northwest winter. If you have any questions about our homes in the Clark County WA area, give us a call!