SPRING...It will eventually happen!

…But it may just take a little longer this year to seem like it’s arrived. That doesn’t mean however, that you can skip the Spring maintenance chores altogether, it just means it may be cooler or just later when you start. 

With every season we have maintenance chores to do in order to protect our homes, likely one of our largest investments. Since spring is technically here, and we are seeing signs of new beginnings in nature, it would seem that now is a great time to get down to business and start working on that checklist.

It has been a longer winter, and with Covid we have likely spent more time at home, so it would go to reason that we may need to declutter and refresh, more than ever before.

Pick a room, and begin the deep cleaning. Remove things from closets and cupboards and drawers, and clean back in those dark corners. As you move from room to room, and floor to floor, make sure you are checking off all of the items on your maintenance list. Making sure you don’t have moisture, or unexpected evidence of rodent or bugs that need to be addressed. Spring cleaning is not just about getting organized again, although that is important.

As you go about your spring cleaning, be sure to consider what items you have stored away that you no longer use or fit into. If you have belongings that you no longer need, don’t just throw them out -- recycle them. With the aftermath of lockdowns and Covid protocols, there are many more families in need. There are several charitable organizations in Niagara that will gladly help re-purpose or redistribute your excess items to someone in need. You may be emptying a closet, but you could be filling someone else’s heart through your generosity.   

Now, don’t just stop at cleaning, and decluttering; you need to address all of the items on the maintenance checklist for Spring. Try to do the indoor chores on the wet and colder days, and save the exterior ones for the warmer weather. You will love the opportunity to be outside, and you can also check to see if your home is showing signs of weathering while you begin your landscape clean-up.  Nothing gives a person a more motivation to get the chores done, than a deadline for an outdoor party or get together, so set the plan in motion. It is almost like getting a reward for your hard work. It may also motivate your guests to do the same at their house, when they see how great of a job you have done!

While general maintenance checklists are a helpful starting place, homes are unique in many ways, and it is vital that you take a good look at your specific interior and exterior elements to ensure that you address any trouble spots you may have. Doing a thorough inspection may help you to ensure that simple repairs don’t become bigger replacement issues, because they were left unaddressed too long.

As always, if you find a situation that you are not sure of, or are not qualified to fix yourself, such as plumbing or electrical repairs, call a professional so that you can ensure it is done right and your home and family stay safe. Some jobs are not DIY type projects. 

Wishing you a wonderful Easter, and a revitalized Spring! If you are considering a renovation, addition or custom home build, call Vanderzalm Construction Inc. at (905)562-4463 or (905)684-5823.