Spring in Washington, D.C., brings warmer weather and the perfect chance to check in on your home. If your house is built with historic brick, this is the season to catch minor issues before they become expensive problems. A lot can happen over the winter months, and a quick exterior walk-around could save you time and money in the long run. Here are a few areas worth focusing on as we transition into the season of renewal.
Check for Drainage and Grading Problems
The first thing to look at is how water moves around your home. Snowmelt and spring rain should drain away from the foundation. If you see water pooling or notice soggy patches near the base of the house, your property may have a grading issue.
Historic homes can be especially vulnerable to water intrusion. Settling over time can change how water flows, and older brick is more likely to absorb moisture. That's why proper grading is important; it protects both the structure and the surrounding masonry.
If you see signs of erosion, shifting soil, or consistent puddling, it's a good idea to call in a professional. Adjusting the slope around your home might be a simple fix that could make a big difference in preserving the foundation.
Keep an Eye Out for Uninvited Guests
When the temperatures drop, animals look for shelter. Unfortunately, that sometimes means they end up inside or around your house. Birds, squirrels, and raccoons are known to squeeze into eaves, attics, and crawl spaces.
Spring is the time they start becoming active again. Look for signs like chewed wood, nesting debris, droppings, or unusual noises. These intrusions can damage insulation, wiring, and even the structure itself, if left unchecked.
If you suspect animal activity, address it early. Sealing up access points and clearing any nesting material will protect your home from future damage and discourage more guests from moving in.
Inspect External Systems for Winter Damage
Outdoor systems like heat pumps, central air units, and utility hookups sometimes take a hit during the winter. Snow, ice, and debris can cause hidden issues that only become obvious when the temperatures rise again.
Just as you do with the rain gutters, clear away any leaves, branches, or buildup that may have gathered around the units. Look for rust, cracks, or disconnected parts. Even if you don't see anything that appears significant, it's smart to check your cooling systems before the summer heat sets in.
Routine maintenance now helps prevent costly repairs later and keeps everything running efficiently when you need it most.
Why Spring Maintenance Matters for Historic Brick Homes
Older homes require a little more attention than their modern counterparts. Historic construction techniques and unique features found only on houses from certain decades mean that a “one-size-fits-all” checklist is not enough to ascertain potential issues. That's where a focused spring inspection by an expert in historic homes makes a difference.
Moisture and shifting soil can cause structural damage. Animal activity can impact more than just your attic. And small cracks or signs of wear might be easy to overlook until they become harder to fix.
The Renaissance Development team is composed of experts in historic brick D.C. homes. We understand the materials, the architecture, and the regional challenges that come with maintaining these properties. From evaluating structural issues to restoring original brickwork using the proper methods, our team knows what to look for and how to address it. We take care of permitting when needed within D.C.’s historic districts, so you don't have to navigate that process on your own.
If winter weather left your home in need of a little care, or if it's been a while since your last exterior inspection, spring is the time to act.
Renaissance Development specializes in masonry restoration and historic preservation in Washington, D.C. Get your home ready for the season ahead without any unpleasant surprises or unnecessary stress. Contact us for an expert evaluation this spring.
