Your home is a huge investment, and one that requires regular maintenance and care. Staying on top of home maintenance is essential to ensuring that the time you spend living in your home is as safe and healthy as possible. In addition to keeping your home operating efficiently, keeping your energy bills at a minimum, and preserving or increasing your home’s resale value.
Inspect Your Property for Winter Damage
Begin by inspecting the area around your manufactured home for winter damage. Remove any tree branches or other debris. Trim trees, bushes and shrubs away from the home.
Assess the Foundation
The foundation is an essential part of your home. It’s out of sight but shouldn’t be out of mind. Inspect your home’s perimeter skirting and foundation system each Spring looking for missing panels, cracked support blocks, loose or missing shims, loose or rusty tie down straps and any standing water. Standing water under your home creates the potential for damage caused by frost heave, where freezing soil expands and exerts pressure upwards on the structure. If you notice the signs of foundation damage, schedule a review by foundation repair experts. Check and relevel the home as needed.
Inspect the grading around your home to ensure water flows away from the foundation. Avoid placing soil and mulch directly against the skirting, which can trap water under the home causing damage and attract termites.
Make sure all required crawlspace ventilation is provided and that mechanical vents are functioning properly for the warmer months. Proper ventilation will extend the usable life of your home. Make sure underbelly insulation is in good repair, too.
Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Visually inspect the roof for loose or missing shingles. Additionally, clean the gutters, if installed, and ensure downspouts drain at least 6 feet away from the house.
Home Interior & Exterior
Check the weatherstripping on all doors and windows and repair as needed. Inspect and re-caulk around windows, doors and anywhere else needing attention. Check operation of doors and windows.
Test smoke detectors carbon monoxide alarms. Replace batteries in weather alert radios, too. Inspect fire extinguishers, replace as necessary.
Vacuum out the dryer vent and clean with a brush. Resupport ductwork if needed.
Check Your HVAC System
Before the summer heat arrives, take the time to inspect your HVAC system. Change the air filters to improve air quality and ensure that your system is running efficiently.
Check the coil and tray and make sure the drain line is not plugged. Also ensure the drain line extends outside the skirting and is not putting moisture under the home.
If you’re concerned about any issues with your HVAC system, schedule a professional inspection to identify any issues before they escalate. Proper maintenance of your HVAC system can help you stay comfortable throughout the warmer months and save on energy costs.
Power Wash Siding and Decks
Power wash and clean exterior surfaces, like siding and decks. Repair as needed. Always follow the product manual for the specific material you’re cleaning, including what pressure setting and cleaning solution to use.
Inspect Your Plumbing
Check for leaks and repair them promptly to prevent water damage. Consider flushing your water heater to remove any sediment buildup and ensure optimal performance.
Clean and Organize
Take the time to deep clean your home, paying special attention to areas that may have been neglected during the winter months. Declutter closets and storage spaces and donate items you no longer need.
Incorporating these tasks into your Spring routine will help you maintain your home’s value and enjoy a comfortable and beautiful living space all year long.
