HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST FOR SPRING

Hippo Insurance offers home insurance and proactive protection with a focus on preventive maintenance. Since each season brings about different challenges that need to be addressed for proper home wellness, the experts at Hippo offer the following springtime maintenance tips.

• Check for mold. Areas with high humidity such as sink cabinets, bathroom tiles and sealant can be a breeding ground for mold. Make a point to routinely check for mold and clean any signs of growth. Chlorine bleach kills mold on non-porous surfaces. Use oxygen bleach on porous materials such as wood. Hire a professional when necessary.

— Time required: 30 minutes

• Trim trees. Cut back longer branches that extend over your home or other structures on your property. This will not only help maintain your tree health, but prevent any damage from fallen limbs during storms.

— Time required: two to three hours

• Paint over cracks. Check the internal and external walls for cracks or peeling paint. Scrape the surface clean and give any nicks a fresh coat to prevent damage to the structure of your home.

— Time required: One hour

• Service HVAC units. Getting your AC system inspected by a professional each spring can help detect minor issues before they turn major, while ensuring you’re comfortable in your home all year long.

— Time required: One to two hours

• Power-wash your home and deck. Cover doors and windows, then pressure-wash the layer of dirt that has built up on your outside fixtures over the winter months.

— Time required: Three hours

For more information on home insurance, visit www.hippo.com.