As the warm weather approaches, many homeowners - including myself - feel a renewed sense of energy and excitement to tackle home projects. If you’re starting to feel some “spring fever”, you’re not alone! According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly 60% of homeowners tackle improvement projects during the spring season. If you find yourself eager to tackle some spring projects, whether DIY or with the help of a recommended service provider, Rafter is here to support you every step of the way.

Here are some practical ideas and guidance to help you make the most out of your home's potential this spring:

Outdoor Living Spaces

After a long winter, patios, decks, and porches are often top-of-mind for homeowners.

Take some time to inspect these spaces for cracked stones, loose decking boards, or other wear and tear—addressing small issues now can prevent larger problems later. If you're considering improvements, a shade structure like an awning or pergola can significantly enhance comfort. And don't forget about your outdoor furniture: a thorough cleaning and application of weather-resistant treatments can extend its life considerably.

Landscaping and Lawn Care

Most homeowners dream of a lush, green yard that's perfect for entertaining, relaxing, or simply enjoying with family.

Now is the ideal time to apply pre-emergent weed control and spring fertilizer to get ahead of weed growth. It's also a great moment to prune shrubs and trees, remove dead branches, and plant new flowers to enjoy throughout the summer. If landscaping feels overwhelming, partnering with a reputable local landscaping service can make a significant difference.

Play Equipment and Family Safety

Homeowners with young children often consider spring the perfect time to introduce new play equipment into their yards. Wooden swing sets, trampolines, climbing structures, and playhouses are popular choices. And less permanent options like inflatable pools and bounce houses, and water tables are also easy to set up during warmer months.

When selecting play equipment, it’s important to consider where they’ll be installed. It may be a challenge to find an ideal location that’s suitable and safe. It's also important to follow manufacturer guidelines closely during assembly to ensure stability and safety. If you're unsure about site preparation or installation, service providers are available to help with installation.

Driveways and Walkways

Winter can be especially tough on driveways and walkways.

Check these areas for cracks or other damage, and consider sealing them or having cracked mortar joints sealed promptly to avoid water intrusion and further issues down the line. Regular sealing can significantly extend their lifespan and improve your home's curb appeal.

Roofing and Gutters

The arrival of spring rains often highlights roof and gutter maintenance needs.

Be sure to clear gutters of debris and leftover fall leaves to prevent water damage, and visually inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles. It’s also important that the spring rain water has somewhere to go - make sure your downspouts are in working order to direct the water away from your foundation. And prior to the rainy season, it’s important to ensure your basement sump pumps are working properly!

HVAC Maintenance

If you have central cooling, spring is the perfect time to check your air conditioning system to ensure it’s ready to perform when summer heat arrives.

You may want to schedule a professional HVAC spring check-up, especially if your system is older. Of course, routine maintenance can help prevent breakdowns, extend your system's life, and improve efficiency. We encourage homeowners to do a visual check of their outdoor air conditioning units to make sure they’re clear of leaves and debris, and aren’t in contact with mulch or soil. If you do have mulch put down near your units this spring it’s a good idea to steer clear of your units!

Indoor Spring Refresh

While outdoor projects often take center stage in spring, “spring fever” makes its way inside most homes too.

Spring cleaning is a valuable opportunity to declutter living spaces, clear out unused clothes and toys, and carefully inspect your home for any signs of pests. Simple steps can make your indoor spaces feel refreshed and welcoming again. And clearing clutter from vulnerable areas like crawlspaces and basements can sometimes help reduce the likelihood of damage from flooding, mold-growth from moisture, or the presence of pests.

Trees and Arbor Care

Trees can go through significant changes from season to season which sometimes includes storm or frost damage. It’s important to keep an eye on the trees surrounding your home.

Spring is a good time to conduct a visual inspection for dead limbs, signs of disease, or potential safety hazards. If anything seems off, consulting a certified arborist early in the season is recommended.

Spring Real Estate

Spring also marks the peak real estate season - if you’re in the process of getting your home ready to be listed you may be considering additional improvements with the help of your real estate partner. Real estate professionals are typically well versed in understanding which improvements will help attract more buyers and drive a higher sales price. Data suggests that improving curb appeal can increase home value by up to 7%

Projects like refreshing landscaping, applying fresh exterior paint, repairing or resurfacing driveways, and maintaining attractive, functional outdoor spaces can have a major impact - homeowners should consult with a reputable real estate agent and organization for guidance. If you’re considering listing your home, we have a fantastic network of real estate agent partners who can provide expert guidance on which improvements will have the biggest impact. Let us know if you’d like an introduction!

Spring fever is an exciting phenomenon that motivates homeowners - including those of us on the Rafter team - to take meaningful steps toward maintaining and improving their homes. If you’re inspired but unsure of where to begin, whether DIY or with the help of recommended service providers, Rafter is here to help you plan, prioritize, and execute these projects with confidence. 

Let’s make the most of spring together!