As springtime blossoms, it’s not just the flowers that require attention. A few smart inspections can prepare your home for summer’s heat and yet another winter.
Your roof is the first line of defense, so start there. Walk around the house and look for any obvious signs of damage. Also, inspect the attic and your ceilings for signs of water damage. If you can’t get a good angle or question what you’re seeing, it’s a good idea to ask a professional, says Justin Swanson, founder of JM Construction Group, 4915 Auburn St., in Rockford. His team specializes in all things home exterior, from roofing and siding to windows and doors.
“If you don’t know the condition of your roof, getting an inspection done is key,” says Swanson. “If a roof is leaking, that’s something you can’t wait on.”
Windows have their own vulnerabilities. Check them for gaps and look for cracks in the caulking that may also leak outdoor air.
“You’d be surprised how much windows save you on heating and cooling costs,” Swanson says. “You could be spending $200 heating your house, but if you had new windows, you could get that down significantly.”
Believe it or not, siding may also affect your indoor airflow, particularly if it has holes or cracks in it, he adds. Such damage may also indicate the presence of unwanted pests, like mice.
Spring rains put extra stress on your gutters, so this is a good time to make sure they’re free of debris.
“If gutters aren’t working properly, they can clog up and drain into your house at some point,” says Swanson.
When tackling large exterior repairs, remember to do your research. Before you hire someone, be sure they’re licensed and insured, with a proven record of excellence. JM Construction boasts a wealth of accolades and five-star reviews from multiple sources.
“We’ve seen a lot of people that thought they were talking to a professional, didn’t do their research and got a bad job,” says Swanson.
To schedule an appointment, call (815) 315-4388. ❚