7 “Must Do’s” for Spring

With spring comes the inevitable list of responsibilities every home owner faces, and many dread.  But come on, isn’t really all that bad?  Okay, okay, we withdraw the question.

At the same time, however, we present a carefully crafted of 7 spring projects you don’t want to ignore.  They won’t take you a ton of time, either, leaving more time than you probably expect for all your leisure time activities.

Inspect the Sump Pump – April showers bring more than May flowers. They can bring flooded basements, too. If you have a sump pump and it’s been a while since it’s been pressed into action, now’s the time to give it a thorough going over to ensure that it’s ready when needed.  Clear the sump pump pit of any debris, pour a pail of water into it, then turn it on to see if starts and stops as it should.

Dry Out the Basement – Basements are at risk for leaks and moisture; over time, that can lead to mold growth, peeling paint, and rust. Address any cracks or gaps around doors, windows, and in the foundation that could be allowing water to seep into your basement, and run a dehumidifier to help keep humidity levels under control.

Unclog Downspouts –Neglecting your downspouts could cause serious problems should torrential rains come our way. Run a hose or auger into downspouts to clear blockages and make sure your downspouts are pointed away from the foundation of your home, ideally extended at least three feet out.

Power Wash – The exterior of your home takes a beating all year long. Wash away all that dirt and grime using a pressure washer. And don’t forget your deck or patio while you’re at it.

Check for Termites – Termites can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Make sure your home is in the clear by taking a walk around the exterior. Use a screwdriver to probe behind wood trim, siding, and decking. Look for wood that looks decayed or water damaged, or for other physical signs of termites like discarded wings or pellet-like droppings. If you suspect termites, contact a professional immediately to stop them in their tracks and prevent thousands of dollars’ worth of damage.

Reseal the Driveway – From normal wear and tear to winter’s icy fury, even newer driveways can crack prematurely. Prevent further damage and extend the life of yours by filling in any cracks or gaps and having it resealed with a good quality asphalt sealer.

Reseed the Lawn – No matter how lush and green your lawn was last summer, a long winter can cause it to come back looking a little sparse. Prep your lawn for a reseeding by mowing it, then use a spreader to apply the seed evenly. Keep the new grass watered regularly, and stay off the lawn until the new grass has been established.

Okay, so you like the list and agree that every single item needs tending it to at your address.  The problem is, you don’t feel particularly up to each and every task; or, perhaps, maybe you’re already aware of one or more problems that need professional attention.  Well, if a broken sump pump is on that list, then Your 1 Plumber is your local, qualified, and glad-to-assist resource.  Don’t have a sump but want the added protection?  We’d be happy to provide you with a free quote.  Contact us today for any home plumbing need at all.