The birds are chirping, the grass is greening and the sun is shining, spring is on the way. This is the time of hear where Albany, Schenectady, Ballston Lake, Saratoga homeowners begin spring cleaning and maintenance work around the home in preparation of the warm weather. Below is a list for repairs, installations and Spring Home Maintenance projects.

• Gutters. Keep your gutters clean of debris and make sure they are working. Make sure downspout extenders carry water at least three or four feet from your home.
• Gutters are designed to collect water from your roof and direct it away from the home. If water collects near the foundation, it can leak into the basement creating water damage. Moisture is an invitation for pests like ants and termites.
• Plunger. Have a plunger handy and know how to use it.
• Although this is common-sense, a plunger breaks up clogs in toilets, sinks, tub drains to keep them from running over. Before call a plumber give the plunger, or “snake,” a plumber tool to attempt to break up the clog.
• Know where your water shut-off is located.
• Knowing where water shut offs are located are beneficial if a toilet or sink are overflowing and you need an immediate solution.
• Do not ignore problems, such as a little wet spot on your ceiling.
• Ignoring a wet spot can lead to much bigger issues like damaged trusses, insulation, sheet rock and mold. Moisture can lead to pest and wildlife issues as well.
• Change your furnace filters monthly, especially in winter and especially if you have pets that shed.
• Keep trees from growing against the foundation of your house.
• Keep shrubs and trees away from your home. Pests like ants and wildlife like squirrels can use trees as access to your home. Shrubs too close to the home can provide a provide harborage area for pests and moisture.
• Don’t overload electrical circuits.
• Maintain your safety alarms as well as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Change batteries in all alarms yearly.
• Think safety.
• In addition to not overloading electrical circuits, there are other precautions to ensure safety. If you have a fireplace or chimney, have an annual inspection to make sure there are no issues or nests from wildlife.
• Have your furnace inspected annually.
• Have handrails along steps in good condition.
• Make sure there are no loose tiles, steps or carpet to avoiding injury.
• Every six months, clean the dryer exhaust.
• If the home is built before 1978, be aware that it likely contains lead-based paint.
• Make sure cleaning supplies are in labeled containers and remain in a safe place away from pets and children.
• Buy insurance. Insurance will protect you against various losses, including those related to fire, wind or theft.

If you are a homeowner or business owner, spring maintenance can help prevent pest issues, keep your family and friends safe and maintain your biggest investment. If you are feeling overwhelmed and looking for assistance, let the team at Thomas Pest Services help. Our home services team can assist with minor repairs, installations or a to-do list. Everyone is busy, let Thomas Pest Services prevent spring pests from invading your home, business or property.