As winter thaws and spring blossoms,it's the perfect time to assess your home's condition. A thorough spring home inspection can identify any damage winter may have caused to your home,address potential future issues and prepare your property for the warmer months ahead.
If you’ve finished all the items on The Ultimate Checklist To Prepare For Warmer Weather,there’s still more you can do to prepare your home for the season. By conducting a thorough spring home inspection,you can proactively address potential problems,maintain your home's value and ensure a safe and comfortable living environment all year long.
Here's a comprehensive guide to make sure your property is in tip-top shape for spring.
Here’s What To Look For On Your Home’s Exterior:
- Give Your Roof A Once-Over - Winter may have had its way with your roof. Examine the roof for missing,cracked,curling or loose shingles. These can leave your home vulnerable to leaks and water damage. Pay special attention to skylights,which can be a weak point in the roof.
- Examine Your Home’s Siding And Flashing - Inspect siding for cracks,chips and areas that have become loose or detached. Hanging or damaged siding or flashing can become dangerous in a storm. Remember to also check for signs of rot or insect damage.
- Assess Your Foundation - Check your foundation for any cracks,which could indicate structural issues and allow water to seep inside. Note any changes or new cracks since the last inspection. Cracks can be sealed with a concrete sealant.
- Check The Integrity Of Your Porch And Deck - If you’ve got them,inspect decks and porches for loose boards,railings or supports to ensure structural integrity and safety. Be aware of any rotting occurring,especially if the structure is made of wood. Consider recoating your deck if it’s been a while,as this can help prevent deterioration.
(MORE:Stop Spring Mold Before It Starts)
Focus On These Things On The Interior Of Your Home:
- Check Your Attic For Moisture - As the highest point of your home,the attic is prone to leakage and water seepage. Look for signs of moisture,leaks or mold in the attic. Check insulation and ventilation.
- Inspect Your Basement For Signs Of Seepage - Another common place for leaks and flooding is the basement. Check for dampness,water seepage or signs of water damage. Note any cracks or leaks in the walls and floors and address them with a sealant. If your basement is particularly vulnerable to significant flooding,consider installing a sump pump or contacting a contractor for waterproofing.
- Noticed Window Condensation? - Check windows for condensation between panes,which could indicate seal failure. Another sign of a leak in the window is if you witnessed frost forming on the interior side of the window during the winter months.
- Address Wall Or Ceiling Water Stains - Look for water stains on walls and ceilings,which could indicate leaks from the roof or plumbing. These stains often appear as brown or yellow areas on the drywall,and can cause mold growth or the breakdown of your wall or ceiling.
- Assess All Ventilation. Evaluate ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens to ensure proper airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
This Is Where Weather May Have Impacted Your Home The Most:
- Check For Ice Dam Damage Spots - An ice dam can occur when melted water and ice make their way under the roof’s shingles after several days of melting and refreezing,according to the National Weather Service. During your home inspection,revisit areas of your roof where ice dams may have formed during winter and check for any resulting damage to the roof,gutters or siding. Ice dams can also cause damage to your ceilings and walls,especially if unnoticed for an extended period of time.
- Notice Any Wind Vulnerability Points - Inspect areas that may have been vulnerable to high winds during winter storms,such as loose shingles,siding or fences. Be sure there is nothing loose that can become dangerous during your next storm.
- Sun Exposure Can Cause Damage Too - Check areas exposed to direct sunlight for damage to paint,siding or roofing materials.
- Evaluate For Storm Readiness - Assess your home's overall readiness for spring and summer storms. Ensure emergency supplies are stocked and that outdoor furniture and equipment are secured in case of high winds.
