It is easy to neglect your property, however one of the best ways to retain its value is to take care of it. That does mean fixing repairs when they are needed and carrying out regular maintenance checks.
Here are our top tips on how to take care of your property all year round, from spring to winter.
Spring
External;
– Clear gutters of leaves and debris to prevent issues caused by rainfall.
– Check the roof for moss growth and loose or missing tiles.
– Monitor the condition of exterior paintwork.
– Make sure windows are cleaned regularly and check the condition of the glass and frames.
– Maintain any decking, cleaning it annually to prevent a build-up of moss.
– Clean any external decoration such as pots or stone work.
Internal;
– Pull furniture away from walls to air your living spaces, also check for damp and mould patches.
– Open your windows to ventilate your home, preventing stale air and increased moisture.
– Take down any curtains and blinds for a deep clean.
– Check internal pipes for signs of leaks.
– Check your loft for any signs of damage such as misaligned roof tiles and water ingress.
Summer
External;
– Carry out exterior decorating jobs, the warmer weather will allow things to dry quicker.
– Maintain your garden- trim ivy and other climbing plants to reduce the likelihood of damage and cut back any large trees and shrubs near the house.
– Tackle any roof issues before the winter months draw in.
Internal;
– Get your boiler serviced and bleed your radiators in time for the cooler months.
– Ensure your curtains and window are open to circulate fresh air into your home.
– Monitor your loft for signs of pests, wasp nests are very common during this season.
– If you have an open fire or wood burner, ensure your chimney is swept and prepared to be used during the winter months.
Autumn
External;
– Clear your gutter during the end of autumn as trees will have dropped their leaves.
– Insulate any outside pipes or taps ready for those frosty mornings.
– Inspect your drains and be clear of any issues.
Internal;
– Check draught proofing around doors and windows.
– Check that you have the correct about of insulation in your loft- aim for a minimum depth of 270mm.
Winter
External;
– Check for any cracks in exterior walls that could be made worse by ice.
– Check for any storm damage i.e. trees and fences, ensure these are not damaging your property.
– Check your roof tiles after any high winds, they may have come loose or even fallen off.
Internal;
– Wipe away any signs of condensation, as this could lead to damp and rot.
– Use extractor fans or leave windows on the latch to prevent moisture building up in your bathroom or kitchen.
– Check your pipes regularly after a cold snap.
These checks and fixes will keep your home in the condition that it deserves, a little TLC goes a long way- give these tips a try!
Images credit: images from Unsplash.
