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11 Mar Preparing your home for the spring thaw

Posted at 17:02h in Blog, Homeowner Tips, Press by

Home Preparation For the Spring Thaw Tips

Preparing Your Home For the Spring Thaw

The air is warmer, the days are getting longer, and after an exceptionally snowy winter, the grass is starting to reveal itself around our homes. Spring will soon be upon us, which means all that snow is going to melt. Rapidly melting snow and frequent rain, especially on still-frozen ground, can mean more water than your home can handle. Even if you live in an area with a low flood risk.

Be sure to take these important steps, if you able and it’s safe to do so, to protect your home during the thaw.

  • Clear away any snow and ice from your home’s foundation, including window wells, to avoid leaks and possibly flooding as it melts.
  • Take a closer look. Seal and repair any cracks in your walls, foundation and around windows, to ensure moisture does not penetrate the building. If you discover a leak, even a small one, consider contacting a professional. Water damage can escalate quickly and repairs are costly.
  • Clear out built-up ice and debris from your eavestroughs and downspouts. Direct downspouts and/or downspout extensions away from your home. This is an integral part of your home’s water draining system, and if the flow is clogged, it can result in damage. If there is a drain on the street near your property, be sure to clear any leaves and garbage away from the grate so melting snow from the road can flow freely.
  • Beware of overhead leaks. If your roof is in need of repair, this is likely the time you will become aware of it. You may start to see water spots form on your ceiling. Do not ignore the signs! These spots are an indication of a water leak caused by damage to the roof. Don’t forget to check for leaks in the attic as well.
  • Clear obstructions away from basement floor drains.
  • Store valuables in waterproof containers and above basement level.
  • Ensure that your sump pump, backup sump pump and/or backflow valves are working (if you have them).
  • Re-open outside water valves only when overnight temperatures are consistently above freezing.
  • Before you turn on the air conditioning for the first time this season, inspect the unit to ensure it is functioning properly. This is also the perfect time to replace your furnace filter and change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

If you’ve already taken these steps, consider sharing this list with friends and family.

Simple inspections and maintenance work at the change of seasons allow you to take good care of your property. These small steps will help you avoid serious problems such as water infiltration, mold growth or small critter infestation.

Discover our tips and advice for the fall and winter by reading this article: Fall Maintenance with an Eco-Friendly Approach

If you are thinking of selling your property, we would be happy to do an evaluation of your home and provide you with advice on how to increase its sale value. We are here to help, please contact us with any real estate inquiries you may have!