So how’s spring-cleaning going? Wait, what do you mean you haven’t even started yet? It’s nearly May! You know, there’s a reason it’s not called “summer cleaning…”
Now that we’ve done our best nagging-mother impression, and you’ve dejectedly put on your styling “spring cleaning” shorts and tank-top, you may as well add some home maintenance to your to-do list.
Florida may be the envy of every other state in terms of weather, but it can be pretty rough on your home. It’s important to be diligent in checking things over from time to time, as just a few minutes of cleaning and maintenance can forestall some major problems. Not to mention save you a ton of money while ensuring the value of your home.
Inman.com posted a great article on home maintenance, with a handy top-ten list of things to check off as you go over your home. While the entire list is definitely worth looking over, there are a few points that are especially important for homeowners in Florida.
Roofing Repairs/Fences and Gates/Clear Yard Debris
While we all like to keep the pretense that Florida is all sunshine all the time, anyone who has been here long enough knows that rain, thunderstorms, humidity, and the occasional hurricane are all big parts of the Florida ecosystem. These things can take a huge toll on your roof, fences and yard, especially if they have not been checked regularly.
Check your fence posts after heavy downpours, when the soil may come loose and rock the foundation. Keep an eye out for trees that may come in contact with the roof in bad storms or hurricanes. Maintain a clean and clear yard, not only for safety’s sake, but also to give your home an open and inviting feeling.
Fans and Air Conditioners
Ah, where would we be without these? Probably not in Florida, I’ll tell you that much.
Maintaining fans is easy to do and helps to ensure you have a clean, dust-free atmosphere in the room. A quick cleaning with a shop vacuum is oftentimes all you need. Remember that using fans is often a cheaper alternative to central AC if you’re looking to save a bit on the electricity bill. Speaking of central air conditioning, be sure to do a visual inspection of outside units from time to time, and always clean and replace the air filters.
Check smoke detectors
Do this. If not for the safety of you and your home, then also because many of them are programmed to let out really high-pitched squeals when their batteries are low. I’m pretty sure they are further programmed to only do this at 3 a.m. on a work night.
Further Checklists
The crew at Elsa Home Inspections has a pretty thorough list of things to look at for Florida homes that you can mark off for monthly, bi-annual, and annual checks. The more you get in the habit of performing these, the faster and easier it becomes. This will ensure that your home continues to be the safe and comfortable haven it undoubtedly already is.