When the weather in Cleveland finally warms up, many of us feel inspired to tackle those home improvement projects we thought about during the winter. Spring is a great time to give your home some needed maintenance and upgrades. Here are some of our top suggestions for essential home projects for the spring:

Clean your gutters. This may not be your favorite household chore, but it is essential. Clean, unobstructed gutters mean that they can serve their purpose—keeping water away from your home and protecting you from leaks or even flooding. Make sure leaves and debris are thoroughly removed from gutters and downspouts. The first time it rains after cleaning, check to ensure that water is draining properly.

Upgrade your thermostat. A smart thermostat like the Honeywell Lyric manages your home’s temperature automatically—and contributes significantly to energy savings. This device can use your smartphone location to adjust the temperature as you come and go.

Repair or replace worn weather stripping. There are major year-round cost savings to be had from this simple task. Over time, weather stripping around doors and windows can become worn down, allowing air to travel into and out of your home. Replace the weather stripping and keep cool air inside your home this summer—lowering your energy bill.

Replace door hardware for a new look. One of the simplest and most inexpensive ways to give your home interior and exterior a facelift is by installing new door fixtures and handles. You will be surprised how a new fixture can transform the look of your home. New door hardware is available in styles like Venetian bronze, satin nickel and polished brass. If you are looking for a major change, consider installing decorative barn or sliding doors to add style and privacy to a doorway.

If your spring maintenance checklist involves tackling larger projects, like a deck build or a garage package installation, turn to Cleveland Lumber for your material needs.