5 Home Improvement Projects to Do This Spring

Spring is all about warm weather arriving, trees leafing out, flowers blooming and sun-filled days getting longer. It is also the perfect time to tackle several home improvement projects, especially after the onslaught of cold, biting temperatures and frozen precipitation during the winter months. The pleasant atmosphere of the spring season motivates homeowners to roll up their sleeves and give their homes a cheerful update. If you start projects in the spring, you will save yourself the trouble of making extensive repairs under the bright, blazing sun of summer, giving you more time to get ready for backyard parties and lazy afternoons instead.

To help you get started, reputable roofing and siding contractor Shine Construction Inc. breaks down 10 top-priority tasks to take on in the spring when the earth seems to come to life again.

1. Fix the Roof

The roof plays a vital role in regulating the temperature inside the living space and protecting the residents and interior belongings from drizzle and prevailing winds. In order to perform its functions, it needs to be well-maintained throughout its lifespan. 

In the winter, snow and ice buildup can become excessive and put too much weight on an old, failing roof. Ice dams, which often form in the gutters or at the edge of the roof, can puncture the roof and prevent water or melting snow from draining off the roof. Even worse, the water that backs up behind the dam or seeps underneath the shingles can leak into the home, causing damage to the ceilings, interior walls and insulation. For this reason, you will want to check for telltale signs of winter damage, such as cracked or missing shingles, sagging areas, water stains on the ceilings and rusting where exterior walls meet the roof.

Another tip is to inspect the rooftop ventilation system and make sure it is not blocked to avoid heat from building up in the attic during the summer months.

2. Replace Siding

A siding replacement can instantly revitalize a tired, weathered home, boost its curb appeal and protect the interior from heat and moisture. 

During the winter, snow, sleet and wind hammer against your wall cladding. If your current siding is not in tip-top shape, moisture can penetrate through the exterior and encourage the development of rot and mildew. In the spring, after the skies have cleared and snow has melted, you will want to check your exterior walls and siding for needed repairs or replacement. To check the condition of your siding, look for cracks, gaps, warping, rotting and water stains. Do not forget to look for holes where critters may have gnawed their way into your house to take shelter. 

If you believe that a replacement is due, bring in a professional. An experienced contractor will take into account the architectural style of your home, your budget and the best materials to stand up against the local climate all year round. Engineered wood, fiber cement and vinyl are some of the most durable materials for siding, making them a popular choice among homeowners.

3. Upgrade the Deck or Porch

Apart from a siding replacement, spring is also the perfect time to build a sturdy, nice-looking deck where you can peacefully relax during the afternoon or invite family and friends to chit-chat and share refreshing drinks. A deck upgrade is well worth the effort and cost, especially if you like spending a lot of time outdoors.

On another note, the winter weather can be extremely harsh on decks, with freezing rain, snow and ice loading it with moisture. To make sure the wood panels of your deck are not splintered, warped or rotted, it is important to inspect, clean and maintain it as soon as possible. Your deck can also be stained by wet, windswept leaves that had been hidden underneath the snow.

There are different materials to choose from when updating your deck structure. Treated redwood, cedar, mahogany and teak are the best woods for a backyard deck. Eco-friendly composite materials combined with wood are easier to preserve than traditional, untreated wood.

If you have a porch, it is time to make repairs as well. This outdoor space can be tarnished with water-related damage, rusty or loose hardware and holes in the screen. If you want to appreciate the warm weather without having to deal with drizzle and pesky bugs, a screened-in porch is just the right choice for you.

4. Replace Gutters

One of the important chores you will want to do after winter is to inspect your gutters, according to an expert roof and siding contractor. If your gutters are clogged, damaged or dislodged, they will not be able to drain water effectively. Your gutters must be able to carry water from April showers and summer storms away from your home. If you see warning signs that indicate your gutters are not in good condition, make sure to address the problem immediately, or else you will be facing big, costly issues, such as basement flooding and soil erosion, down the line.

Gutters need a good spring cleaning, but sometimes they need to be replaced. Be on the lookout for rust, cracks, mold and bent gutters. There are two types of gutters to consider when replacing your gutters. K-style gutters look like trim and are seen on most homes, whereas half-round gutters are typically seen in older homes or homes with tile or slate roofs. Also, do not forget to check your downspouts. Not only should they be firmly connected to your gutters, but they should also be free of clogs so water does not build up in the gutters.

5. Replace Windows

If your windows at home have loose frames or are not sealed properly, it will be hard to make the most out of your HVAC system. Before summer rolls around, make sure to check for common signs of damage, such as air leaks, rotting frames, cracks on the glass, gaps between the windows and frames. It is possible that you may only need to replace the caulking in order to seal gaps and protect your home from wind and rain. If you need to replace your old windows, call a local window replacement contractor and consider getting energy-efficient windows to help keep out bugs, protect against inclement weather and reduce your air conditioning bills and future heating costs.

Other Home Improvement Ideas for Spring

• Apply fresh paint on siding, doors and trim to make your home feel brand new.

• Check the attic and make sure it is ready for the summer heat. Look for mold and verify if the insulation is still intact.

• Check the basement and look for leaks in the walls. Install a dehumidifier and adequate ventilation.

• Spend a day cleaning. Wash drapes, shampoo the carpet, dust ceiling fans and open windows to let in the cool, fresh breeze of spring.

Let Shine Construction Inc. Help Achieve Your Dream Exterior

Breathe new life into your home with a high-quality exterior makeover project this spring season. Turn to Shine Construction Inc. for all your home remodeling needs, from roof repair and vinyl siding installation to door and window replacement, deck building, chimney flashing repair and more. Our top-rated professionals are committed to providing the comfort and efficiency that you need through industry-leading products and outstanding customer service. Call us at (508) 276-6644 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment or request a free, no-obligation estimate. We work with homeowners in Uxbridge, MA, and the surrounding areas.