You know that the cold and dry days are coming to an end when the snow starts melting and your lawn starts showing sprouts of green. Open your windows, let the warm sunshine in, and welcome the new promises of springtide!
But before you begin planning your travel adventures and outdoor activities, however, make sure to freshen up and invigorate your home first so that you can fully enjoy the beautiful weather. Here are some ideas to make your house ready for springtime.
Repair Winter Damage
Although tons of snow could make your area a veritable winter wonderland, the freezing temperatures could wreak havoc on your home. Ensure that your home is in tip-top shape by checking it for structural damage and carrying out repairs immediately.
The combination of low temperatures and harsh weather conditions during winter could have caused leaks and water intrusion in your home’s architectural assemblies. As such, be sure to investigate your pipes, attic, rooftop, and flooring for water and moisture damage.
Pay close attention to your insulated walls as well. Wet insulation will not only lessen its thermal insulation value but may also trigger the growth of mold and bacteria. Replace the affected area immediately with the appropriate insulation supply to prevent further harm.
Besides checking for moisture intrusion, examine your roof, gutter, driveway, basement, crawl spaces, and every other nook and cranny for any winter damage. Address all issues as soon as possible to contain the damage and save on repair costs.
Schedule an HVAC Inspection and Maintenance
Spring is known for its temperature swings. You’re likely to feel the warmth on some days and then experience a cold plunge on other days. Ensure optimal indoor thermal comfort despite the changing temperatures by ascertaining that your HVAC system is in good condition.
Schedule an HVAC inspection and maintenance before you start switching between heating and cooling modes. Professionals can readily address any damage caused by the cold season in your system and ensure that your air conditioning is working efficiently as the weather warms up.
Seal Air Leaks
Besides ensuring that your air conditioning is ready to keep you cool indoors, you should also do some air sealing to keep your home more comfortable in time for the fluctuating temperatures of spring and the hot summer months ahead.
Air sealing prevents hot air from entering your home and cool air from coming out. As a result, your home is made more comfortable, and your electricity bills will not be as high since your air HVAC system does not have to work twice as hard. Note that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that you can save an average of 15 percent on cooling costs when you air seal and insulate.
More than maintaining indoor temperature and saving energy, sealing air leaks also prevents dust, pollutants, and pollen from entering your home. Keep in mind that one of the downsides of spring is the release of pollen grains by plants that can trigger hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and other allergies.
Clean and Maintain Your Windows
Whether you realize it or not, your windows take a lot of beating during winter as it works to keep cold air out. As the temperature rises, you may notice that your windows will be stained with dirt, dust, and even salt residues originating from the roads. This is why you should make cleaning your windows a top priority as springtime comes.
Clean windows will improve the aesthetic value of your home and allow natural light to enter your home. Remember that letting the daylight in is a great way for you to overcome winter blues and for you to soak the sunlight in so that your body can synthesize much-needed vitamin D.
Be sure to repair or replace damaged window parts so that you can readily open your windows to enjoy the fresh spring breeze. This season is also the best time to change your heavy draperies with light and airy curtains.
Clean and Organize Your Home
Get rid of all the dirt and grime that have accumulated in your home during the cold season, clean and air-out every room in your house, change your linens and draperies, and de-clutter your home as soon as the weather starts getting warm again. Enjoin the help of the rest of your family, and start sprucing up your home from top to bottom.
Before you dismiss the idea of spring cleaning, know that this routine offers numerous benefits beyond a clean and organized home. For one, cleaning-up can lessen the risk of seasonal allergies and illnesses as it helps reduce the levels of allergens and pollutants inside your house. A tidy space can also reduce stress, induce relaxation, and increase productivity.
Bring Greeneries Inside
After a season of snow, rain, and cold, it is time to bring back freshness and life inside your home. Celebrate spring by decorating your indoors with various greeneries. There are plenty of indoor plants you can choose from that will surely add vibrancy and color to the different rooms in your house.
Try succulents in shades of green, purple, and gray if you are worried about maintenance. For splashes of vibrant hues, go for polka dot begonia, rex begonia, snake plant, or coleus. Ultimately, you can enjoy all the aesthetic-boosting, air-purifying, and stress-relieving benefits of whatever types of houseplants you choose to decorate your residence with.
The items discussed above are just a few ideas to help you get started on getting your house ready for spring. While prepping your home may take time, energy, and resources, the benefits far outweigh any cost. Keep in mind that when you care for your home, you will live more comfortably, happily, and stress-free.
