Even if you are not selling your home this summer, there are many maintenance projects that need to be done every spring on every Minnesota home. As a Minnesota Realtor, I see many homes that have not been properly cared for. Throughout Anoka County there are houses with water damage from poorly maintained roofs and decks that are downright scary to walk on. If steps to maintain these properties had been taken on a regular basis, these homes would have sold more quickly and for a better price.
Here are five spring maintenance tips that will not only beautify your home, but also aid in retaining your home’s value for years to come.
Roof—Walk around with binoculars if necessary and check for any missing shingles that may have been blown off during a winter or spring storm. If any are missing or you see other damage, bring in a contractor to assess the damage and make repairs before you have water damage in your home.
Paint—Did the elements cause the paint on your siding or trim to start to peel? Now is the time to assess the damage
Deck Settling—Check for any settling or worn boards on your deck especially if it is off of the ground. If the supports of your deck appear to be pulling away from the home or if the boards are weather-worn, have it reviewed by a professional.
Gutters—Gutters filled with leaves? Take the time to clean out to prevent water backups. Keeping water away from the foundation is the best way to keep water out of your basement. If your gutters are clogged, they cannot do the job and the rains will pour right over the clogged-gutter’s edge near the walls of your home.
Driveway—The winter’s freeze and thaw cycle can do damage to an asphalt driveway. Cracks need to be filled or they will get worse. It is recommended that blacktop driveways also be seal-coated every 2 years when there in an open area with extreme sun exposure to extend the life of the driveway.
Here are five spring maintenance tips that will not only beautify your home, but also aid in retaining your home’s value for years to come.
Roof—Walk around with binoculars if necessary and check for any missing shingles that may have been blown off during a winter or spring storm. If any are missing or you see other damage, bring in a contractor to assess the damage and make repairs before you have water damage in your home.
Paint—Did the elements cause the paint on your siding or trim to start to peel? Now is the time to assess the damage
Deck Settling—Check for any settling or worn boards on your deck especially if it is off of the ground. If the supports of your deck appear to be pulling away from the home or if the boards are weather-worn, have it reviewed by a professional.
Gutters—Gutters filled with leaves? Take the time to clean out to prevent water backups. Keeping water away from the foundation is the best way to keep water out of your basement. If your gutters are clogged, they cannot do the job and the rains will pour right over the clogged-gutter’s edge near the walls of your home.
Driveway—The winter’s freeze and thaw cycle can do damage to an asphalt driveway. Cracks need to be filled or they will get worse. It is recommended that blacktop driveways also be seal-coated every 2 years when there in an open area with extreme sun exposure to extend the life of the driveway.
If you are relocating to Minnesota, are looking for Homes for Sale in the north and east Twin Cities metro area and need help from a professional Realtor, give me a call or visit my website for a FREE Relocation Packet. I specialize in acreage properties! Serving Anoka, Chisago, Ramsey and Washington Counties in Minnesota.
