Can you feel it? Spring is in the air! For those of us who love and care for old houses, it’s the perfect time to inspect, repair, and prepare our homes for the months ahead. Tackling small issues now can prevent costly repairs down the line. Here’s a checklist to help your home stay in top shape this spring:
1. Inspect the Roof
Winter storms and ice can take a toll on your roof. Check for missing or damaged shingles, inspect flashing around chimneys and dormers, and make sure no leaks have developed. Some of our roofs are coated metal and are ready to be repainted. Addressing minor issues now can prevent major headaches later.
2. Look Over the Chimney & Masonry
While we’re up on the roof, let’s inspect the chimney(s) for crumbling mortar or loose bricks, which might indicate the need for repointing. If you have a working fireplace, schedule a chimney inspection now (you’ll thank yourself this fall!).
3. Clean the Gutters
Shedding water is one of the most important functions of any home. Clogged gutters and downspouts prevent this from happening, so make sure to clear out leaves and debris. Ensure water is being directed away from your home’s foundation.
4. Check the Foundation
Walk around your house and inspect the foundation for cracks or signs of shifting. If you notice any gaps or water pooling, see #6 below.
5. Inspect Basements & Crawlspaces
Snow melt and spring rains create a muddy mess outside. It’s even more of a problem if that moisture finds its way into the lower areas of your home. Check for signs of damp, mold, or pests, all of which can lead to structural issues. Consider adding a dehumidifier or improving ventilation if necessary.
6. Improve Landscape Drainage
Ensure the ground slopes away from your home’s foundation to prevent water intrusion. Clear out any debris from drainage paths, and check that garden beds aren’t holding excess moisture against your exterior walls.
Not a bad month’s work! More Spring home stewardship tips to come in our next post…
AUTHOR KATE WOOD grew up criss-crossing the country in the family’s Volkswagen Bus, visiting house museums, battlefields, Main Streets, and national parks. Today, she is an award-winning preservationist, real estate broker and principal of the full-service historic rehabilitation consulting firm, Worth Preserving. Kate believes in the essential value of old-building stewardship to sustain community character. For her, each property is a cause and each client a fellow advocate. She specializes in matching people with properties, skilled contractors, historic tax credits and other benefits to support top-tier rehabilitation projects.
