Essential Spring Home Maintenance Guide & Checklist

1. Replace your furnace filter:

   

   Be sure to inspect and replace your furnace filters on a regular basis to ensure efficient air flow. If a particular area of your home is too warm or too cool, you can also adjust the dampers on each of your heat registers to increase airflow. For additional tips on managing your furnace, please visit Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here.
   
   

2. Replace batteries in carbon monoxide and smoke detectors:

   
   On a monthly or seasonal basis, do not forget to test and replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. For additional tips on managing carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, please visit Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here.
   
   

3. Clean or replace your range hood filters:

   
   Pictured: Range Hood in the Vogue 32
   
   Kitchen range hoods are an important part of your home’s ventilation system that help remove odors and improve air quality. Clean and replace your range hood filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. For additional tips on managing your range hood, please visit Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here.
   
   

4. Test your sump pump:

   
   Your sump pump can help prevent your basement from flooding by removing excess water from around your home's foundation. Check your sump pump to ensure it is operational and the pump turns on when the float is lifted. You can check the float by slowly pouring water into the pit until the pump turns on. Your sump pump should automatically turn off once all the water has drained away. You should also ensure the pit is free from debris which can cause the float to malfunction. If your sump pump doesn't turn on, check your power cord and ensure your breaker hasn't tripped. If the electrical supply is working properly, your sump pump may be malfunctioning.
   
   
5. Inspect your basement and foundation:
   
   Be sure to inspect your basement walls and floors for signs of leaks or cracks to ensure water does not find its way into your home this spring as the snow melts. If necessary, you can waterproof the walls inside your basement with these helpful tips from Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here. 
   
   You should also check your foundation for cracks that can allow water to enter your home. Similar to patching repairs inside your home, a mixture of hydraulic cement can help create a watertight seal on your foundation walls. There are a number of waterproof sealants on the market that can also be brushed or sprayed onto foundation walls to create a rubber-like, impermeable water barrier. Learn more from Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here.
   
   

EXTERIOR CHECKLIST

1.  Inspect and repair your deck and fence:

   
   Even with the most diligent home maintenance schedule, the exterior elements of your home are subject to the most extreme weather conditions and deterioration can often occur. Inspect the integrity of your decks, fences, steps, and handrails and repair or replace any components that are not firmly fastened or in good working condition.
   
   

2. Clean out your eavestroughs and downspouts:

   
   Inspect your eavestroughs and downspouts and remove sediment, leaves, and other debris for more efficient rooftop drainage. Cleaning out your eavestroughs at least once a season helps prevent obstructions from settling which can cause water to overflow gutters and pool near your foundation. For additional tips on managing your eavestroughs and downspouts, visit Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here.
   
   

3. Check for soil settlement:

   
   

   As the snow melts this spring, soil can shift during the frequent freezing and thawing cycle. Be sure to refill low spots with compacted clay, ensuring it slopes away from your foundation, and then top with additional topsoil to ensure water does not collect and settle near your foundation. For additional tips on managing surface water and maintaining drainage systems and strategies, please visit Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here.

    

4. Inspect your driveway and walkways:

   

   Seasonal temperature swings and frost penetration can cause heaving, cracking, or change the direction of surface water drainage on your driveway and walkways. Be sure to reseal your concrete with silicon caulking to increase the longevity of your driveway and walkways. For additional tips on how to maintain your concrete walks and driveway, visit Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here.

    

5. Inspect your hose bibs and exterior faucets:

   
   We always recommend detaching your hose from your hose bib prior to winter to prevent frozen or cracked plumbing lines which could cause water leaks in your basement. With that in mind, the warmer spring weather is the perfect time to turn on your interior water supply and reconnect your exterior hose bibs to check for cracks, clear debris, and test for leaks in your exterior faucets.
   
   

6. Inspect roof shingles:

   
   Inspect your roof for loose, damaged or missing tiles or shingles caused by inclement weather over the winter. A damaged roof should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent water leaks into the interior of your home. For additional tips on maintaining your roofing, visit Alberta New Home Warranty Program (ANHWP) here.

If you're able to complete these simple maintenance tasks this spring season, we're confident you and your home will make a seamless transition into enjoying the warmer weather this summer.

Rest assured, prior to handing over the keys to your brand new Kanvi home, our dedicated construction and service team will provide a thorough walkthrough of your home including sharing important maintenance information that will ensure your home operates efficiently in all seasons.

If you have any questions regarding the maintenance of your Kanvi Home, please contact us below.