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The winter months bring cold, wet, icy, and even snowy weather to the UK and many of us go into a form of hibernation. While it is tempting to snuggle up under a blanket and wait for the spring to arrive, the end of winter is actually the perfect time to give our homes some much-needed TLC. When spring and summer finally arrive, life suddenly becomes much busier, and we start to invite people to our homes again, so it is important to get your home in working order. Here are six essential home maintenance jobs to get sorted this spring.
- Clean the guttering
Rain can come at any time of year in the UK, so it is essential to ensure that your guttering and drainage are in good working order. If any of your gutters are blocked with dirt and leaves, cracked, leaking, or loose, it could lead to water damage in your property if it reaches the foundations. You can either use a ladder to check your guttering yourself or hire a professional.
- Check your roof
The roof on your property protects your home against the elements, and many people do not realise that their roof has become damaged until it is too late. You or a professional roofer should check the roof for any loose tiles or shingles, as well as signs of cracking or warping. You may be able to do this from the ground if you live in a bungalow, but properties with two or more storeys may need to be checked by a professional as this can be dangerous.
- Service your heating and cooling systems
When the hot weather comes, you will want your air conditioning system to be working effectively and efficiently, so take this opportunity to get it serviced before you need to use it. In addition, your boiler has been working hard all winter to provide heating, and while you may not need your heating much in the summer, it is still important to keep the system in good condition by getting it serviced. It is also often cheaper to book a boiler service Shrewsbury based in the summer as engineers are less busy.
- Reseal windows and door frames
Freezing temperatures can cause the seals around doors and window frames to harden, crack, and become loose. This leads to gaps through which heated or cooled air can escape, increasing energy usage and costs, as well as water leaks in the home. Take time to check the seals around windows and doors and reseal any damaged areas.
- Test and change your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
It is vitally important that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working, so while you are running through your home maintenance checklist, take a few minutes to swap in some fresh batteries and test them.
- Clean your appliances
Your dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, and cooker need at least an annual clean to ensure they are working efficiently and to prevent unexpected (and expensive) breakdowns.