Spring Into Home Maintenance!

As the snow melts away and the sunshine starts to warm up Northeast Ohio, it’s time to shake off the winter blues and embrace the beauty of spring and summer. With longer days and warmer temperatures on the horizon, now is the perfect opportunity to get your home ready for the seasons ahead. At New Horizons Property Group, we believe that proactive maintenance and preparation can not only protect your home, but also save you money on energy expenses. In this guide, we’ll explore DIY tips and tricks to spruce up the exterior of your home, and make the most of this gorgeous weather here in Northeast Ohio.

• Clean and Inspect Your Exterior:
  • Start by giving your home’s exterior a thorough cleaning. Use a pressure washer or hose to remove dirt, grime, and mold from siding, decks, and walkways.
  • Inspect your siding for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Look for cracks, holes, or areas where the paint is peeling. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage and costly repairs down the road.
  • Don’t forget to clean your windows inside and out to let the sunshine in, and improve energy efficiency.
• Maintain Your Roof and Gutters:
  • Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles, as well as signs of sagging or water damage. Repairing small issues now can prevent leaks and water damage during spring showers.
  • Clean out your gutters and downspouts to remove debris such as leaves and twigs. Clogged gutters can lead to water backup and damage to your roof, siding, and foundation.
• Enhance Your Outdoor Spaces:
  • Revitalize your outdoor living areas by power washing patios, decks, and fences. This simple step can breathe new life into your outdoor spaces and make them more enjoyable for relaxing and entertaining.
  • Consider adding a fresh coat of paint or stain to your deck or fence to protect against weather damage and enhance curb appeal.
  • Invest in outdoor furniture and accessories to create inviting gathering spaces for family and friends.
• Boost Energy Efficiency:
  • Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulking to prevent drafts and reduce energy loss.
  • Install a programmable thermostat to regulate indoor temperatures and save on heating and cooling costs.
  • Plant shade trees strategically around your home to block the sun’s rays and reduce the need for air conditioning during the summer months.
• Invest in Low-Maintenance Landscaping:
  • Choose native plants and drought-resistant species for your landscaping to minimize water usage and maintenance requirements.
  • Mulch flower beds and around trees to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and improve soil health.
  • Incorporate perennial plants and flowers that will bloom year after year, reducing the need for replanting and upkeep.

Who doesn’t enjoy a few interesting facts about their home? Here are a few stats and facts about owning and maintaining the place your heart is – Your Home!

1. Energy-Efficient Landscaping: Did you know that strategically placed trees can help you save up to 25% on energy bills? They can provide shade in the summer and act as a windbreak in the winter! It’s like having nature’s air conditioner and heater all in one!
2. Curb Appeal and Home Value: Research shows that investing in landscaping and exterior improvements can increase a home’s value by up to 15%! So, not only does sprucing up your outdoor spaces make your home more enjoyable, but it’s also a smart financial move.
3. DIY Deck Maintenance: You might be surprised to learn that regular maintenance can double the lifespan of your deck. By cleaning, sealing, and staining your deck every few years, you can protect it from the elements! Also it never hurts to keep it looking like new for years to come.
4. Water-Saving Landscaping: Northeast Ohio might not be known for its droughts, but did you know this? By choosing drought-resistant plants and implementing water-saving landscaping techniques, you can save money on your water bill? Plus, it’s better for the environment!
5. The Power of Mulch: Mulching isn’t just for looks—it also helps retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. Plus, it adds a polished finish to your landscaping that enhances curb appeal without breaking the bank.

With a little effort and some DIY know-how, you can make the most of this beautiful weather in Northeast Ohio, and get your home ready for spring and summer. By taking proactive steps to clean, maintain, and enhance your home’s exterior, you can protect your investment, save money on energy expenses, and create inviting outdoor spaces for enjoying the season ahead. For more homeowning ideas and DIY tips, Home Depot is always a great resource as well!

To stay up to date on our houses’ exteriors and improvements, visit our Properties page. And just remember, here at New Horizons Property Group, we’re here to help you make the most of your home, inside and out. Happy spring!