DMV Spring Home TLC: Because Your House Deserves Better
sites • April 5, 2025
The Ultimate DMV Spring Home Exterior Checklist: Defeating Pollen-zilla, Potholes & Other Seasonal Villains
Winter Was Brutal. Time for Your Home's Glow-Up.
Let's be real - your home just survived another DMV winter, which means it endured:
✅ Temperature whiplash (70° on Tuesday, snowing by Friday)
✅ Pollen Armageddon (that thick yellow blanket coating everything)
✅ Wind gusts that tested your siding's commitment to staying put
✅ Potholes deep enough to lose a Mini Cooper in
But fear not! With this funny-but-actually-helpful checklist, you'll have your home looking fresher than cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. And if any task seems too intense? That's what we're here for!
1. Gutters: Evict Those Leaf Squatters & Their Friends
The Problem: Your gutters are running a full-service Airbnb for leaves, twigs, and probably a family of chipmunks.
What to Do:
- Suit up (this job is messy)
- Scoop out the gunk (gloves recommended unless you like nature under your nails)
- Flush with a hose to test drainage
- Check for sagging or leaks
- Pro Tip: Install gutter guards now and thank yourself later when all your neighbors are cleaning theirs again in fall.
When to Call Us:
If your gutters are pulling away from the house or you spot rust/rot.
2. Siding: Remove the Pollen Couture Collection
The Problem: Your home looks like it's been dusted with radioactive powdered cheese.
Spring Cleaning Steps:
Gentle wash with garden hose and soft brush
For vinyl: Use a mild cleaner (no pressure washers - they can damage!)
Inspect for cracks, warping, or loose panels
DMV Reality Check: If your siding has more cracks than I-495 during rush hour, it might be time for an upgrade.
3. Roof Inspection: Spot Winter's Damage Before It Spots You
The Problem: Your roof took a beating from ice, wind, and possibly a frisbee golf incident.
DIY Check-Up:
Binoculars are your friend (no need to channel your inner Spider-Man) Look for:
- Missing or curling shingles
- Dark stains (potential leaks)
- Flashing that's come loose
- Any suspicious animal activity (raccoons are terrible tenants)
- When to Panic: If you see daylight through your attic boards or your ceiling looks like a watercolor painting.
4. Windows & Doors: Stop the Draft Drama
The Problem: That chilly breeze isn't "ambiance" - it's your heating bill screaming for help.
Energy Efficiency Boost:
- Feel for drafts (a lit candle helps spot air leaks)
- Replace worn weatherstripping
- Re-caulk around frames
- Clean tracks and lubricate moving parts
- Fun Fact: Properly sealed windows can save you 10-20% on energy bills. That's a lot of Starbucks!
5. Deck Rescue: From Splinterville to Staycation Central
The Problem: Your deck looks like it's been through a lumberjack competition.
Pre-Summer TLC:
- Sweep away winter debris
- Check for loose boards or protruding nails
- Give it a good cleaning
- Apply fresh sealant if needed
- DMV Pro Tip: Wait for consistent 50°+ nights before sealing - otherwise it won't cure properly.
6.
Masonry & Hardscaping: Fix the Winter Wounds
The Problem: Your walkways and walls developed more cracks than a DMV sidewalk.
Check For:
- Crumbling mortar
- Heaved or uneven pavers
- Spalling (flaking) bricks
- Power wash (carefully!)
- Re-sand paver joints
- Mark any areas needing professional repair
7. Landscaping: Tame the Jungle
The Problem: Your bushes are plotting to swallow the house whole.
Spring Cleanup:
- Trim branches back from siding and roof (6" minimum)
- Refresh mulch beds (3" deep max)
- Redirect downspouts away from foundation
- Remove dead plants/limbs
- Warning: Ivy might look charming, but it's basically nature's wrecking ball for your siding.
8. Outdoor Plumbing: Avoid Surprise Water Features
The Problem: That burst pipe last year wasn't the "outdoor shower feature" you wanted.
Preventative Steps:
- Test all outdoor faucets
- Check for leaks at connections
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Drain and store hoses until freeze risk passes
9. Driveway & Walkways: Fill Those DMV-Special Potholes
The Problem: Your driveway has more dips than a Six Flags rollercoaster.
Quick Fixes:
- Fill small cracks with sealant
- Patch asphalt areas
- Note any major issues for professional repair
10. The Final Touch: Curb Appeal Check
Stand across the street and assess:
- Does your house number need refreshing?
- Are light fixtures working?
- Does the front door need a wash or new paint?
- 🎉 Congratulations! Your Home is Now Spring-Ready
(Or at least ready enough that the neighbors will stop side-eyeing your property.)
Remember: This list might seem long, but tackling a few items each weekend makes it manageable. And for anything that feels overwhelming..
What to Expect During a Roof Replacement Project Replacing your roof is a big investment — and knowing what to expect makes the process smoother, less stressful, and more cost-effective. At Shaw & Company Contractor , we’re here to walk you through every step so you feel confident from inspection to final cleanup. 1. 🔍 Initial Roof Inspection & Estimate We start by visiting your home to assess your current roof. We’ll look for: Shingle damage Leaks or water stains Structural wear Ventilation issues Then we’ll provide a detailed estimate that breaks down materials, labor, and timeline. No surprises — just transparency. 2. 📅 Scheduling & Permits Once the estimate is approved, we’ll schedule your project. If your area requires permits, we handle all of that for you. You’ll get a clear start date and an approximate project length (usually 1–3 days depending on roof size). 3. 🧹 Pre-Project Prep Before our crew arrives, we recommend: Moving vehicles from the driveway Clearing patio furniture or fragile outdoor items Covering items in the attic (just in case) Our team will bring protective tarps and plywood to shield your landscaping and windows from debris. 4. 🛠 The Roof Replacement Process Here’s what the day looks like: Tear-Off: We remove the old shingles and underlayment. Inspection: We check the decking for rot or damage. Repairs: If we find any issues, we fix them before moving on. Installation: New underlayment, shingles, flashing, and vents are installed with precision. Ventilation Check: Proper airflow = longer roof life. 5. 🧽 Clean-Up & Final Walkthrough We leave your property spotless. Our crew will: Use magnetic rollers to pick up nails Haul away all debris Walk you through the finished work You'll also get a warranty on both materials and workmanship for peace of mind. 6. 🏡 Enjoy Your New Roof Whether you chose asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or another option, your new roof protects your investment and boosts your home’s value. You’ll instantly notice the difference in appearance and performance. ✅ Why Choose Shaw & Company Contractor? We’re not just contractors — we’re your neighbors . As a local business, we care about our reputation, and every job we take on reflects our commitment to quality, honesty, and craftsmanship. 📞 Need a new roof? Call us today at (571) 395-0235 or request a free quote online.
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