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If you want a home that lasts, is easy to maintain, and is cost-effective, then you need to invest in regular checks, cleans, and repairs. It’s so much faster, easier, and cheaper to replace one damaged roof tile than an entire roof, and the same goes for all other areas of your home, from your HVAC system to your water heater to even your fridge. With this guide, you’ll know exactly what to check, what to repair, and what to clean to get your home ready for yet another year.
· Exterior
When the snow melts, you should go around your property and inspect and record any damage. Take note of any new cracks, stains, or even missing elements. If there are any issues with your foundations or your roof, it’s important to bring in an expert.
A missing roof shingle, for example, is a prime candidate for roof repair. Getting small problems looked at (and fixed if necessary) is how you avoid extremely high costs like an entire roof replacement or foundation issues.
· Filters
Inside, it’s time to check and clean out every filter. This applies to your HVAC, your dishwasher, your sink trap, and so on. Debris will always, inevitably, build up in these spaces, so it’s important to flush them out and dispose of the debris. You can have a professional do this, or learn how to do it yourself. Either way, regularly cleaning out your systems and appliances will help you extend the life of these critical elements of your home, and ensure they work flawlessly for longer.
· Attic
Go into your attic and other crawl spaces. Check for signs of damp, mold, or even critters. Winter is a prime time for wildlife to find any way into your home, as these spaces are dry, see little to no human traffic, and are much warmer than the outside. Though it’s great for them, of course, it’s terrible for your home, so if you see droppings, bedding, or the animals themselves, it’s a good idea to call in pest control and see about closing up those gaps in your home.
· Textiles

Spring is the perfect time for a deep spring clean, and that should start with your textiles. Wash your pillows and duvet, give your mattress a refresh, clean down your curtains and couch, and so on. Getting rid of dust can help keep your family healthier and extend the life of your textiles.
· Taps and Pipes
You’ll want to go through and check all your taps and pipes, and note any limescale build-up or other signs of leaks, no matter how small. Water build-up always causes lasting damage, and what could have been an easy fix by a plumber could become a massive issue if left unchecked.
Tip: If you also track your water usage you’ll be able to note a strange spike in activity if a leak happens. This way, even if the leak happens somewhere out of sight, you can catch and fix it fast.
· Landscaping
Finally, you’ll want to go back outside to clean up any debris, cut back dead plants, and prep your garden for a new year of growth. Pay particular attention to any debris or plants that are crowding your foundation, and remove these to better protect your home.
