As the azaleas bloom and crawfish season kicks into high gear, it's time for Zachary homeowners to shake off the winter blues and prep their homes for the warmer months ahead. Louisiana’s tropical climate—think heat, humidity and the occasional violent pop-up storm—calls for a seasonal approach to home maintenance and cleaning, while the weather is moderate enough to withstand a day’s worth of working outdoors. Whether you're planning to list your home or just want to keep it in tip-top shape, here’s your spring to-do list!

🌞 Outdoor Maintenance: Protect Your Curb Appeal

1. Inspect your roof and gutters.
After a rainy winter, check for missing shingles, debris buildup, and signs of leaks. Gutters should be clear and securely fastened to prevent water damage to your home’s interior ceilings during spring storms.

2. Power wash siding, patios and driveways.
The damp climate here encourages mold and mildew. A good power wash freshens your home's exterior and prevents long-term damage. Pro tip: A professional soft wash job can make your roof look years younger! Softwashing, as opposed to DIY pressure washing, is easier on your exterior paint job, and guarantees you won’t be left with squiggly lines.

3. Check your HVAC system.
Don’t wait until it’s 95° with 100% humidity to realize your AC needs help. Schedule a spring tune-up to ensure your system is ready for the long, hot summer.

4. Trim trees and check drainage.
Overgrown limbs can damage your roof in a storm. Also, make sure your yard drains properly to avoid flooding—a common issue in low-lying areas.

NEED A REFERRAL FOR ANY OF THESE MAINTENANCE PROS? CALL ME!

🏡 Indoor Refresh: Spring Cleaning with Purpose

1. Change air filters and clean vents.
With pollen season in full swing, clean air is a must. Swapping out filters improves air quality and helps your HVAC system run more efficiently.

2. Deep clean appliances.
Pull out your fridge, scrub your oven, and wipe down washer and dryer units. Bonus points for vacuuming behind everything—hello, dust bunnies!

3. Declutter room by room.
Start small: one drawer, one closet. Donate or discard items you no longer use. Less clutter = less stress.

4. Refresh baseboards, walls and windows.
Louisiana humidity can make walls feel grimy over time. Wipe down baseboards, clean window tracks, and brighten up your space with a little elbow grease.

🐜 Bonus Tip: Watch for Pests

Warm weather brings ants, termites and other unwanted guests. Schedule a preventative pest control treatment now to avoid bigger problems later.

Whether you're planning to sell your home or simply want to protect your investment, spring is the perfect time to show your house a little love. If you’re wondering which improvements can add the most value—or if you’re curious what your home could sell for in today’s market—give me a call. I’m here to help you make smart moves in every season.

Happy Spring!
— Carrie Godbold, Realtor