Keep Your Home in Tip-Top Shape: Seasonal Maintenance Checklists

Performing thorough seasonal maintenance on your home is one of the best ways to extend its life, prevent costly emergency repairs, and keep things running smoothly all year long.

Spring Cleaning Checklist

• Carefully check the roof and siding for any damage from winter storms. Look for missing, cracked or curled shingles as well as signs of water damage. Repair or replace damaged areas.
• Clear out gutters and downspouts of any debris that accumulated over winter. Ensure they are draining properly to prevent ice dams and water damage.
• Inspect the foundation, stairs, railings, and other structures for any shifting, cracks or deterioration that may have happened due to winter freezes and thaws. Seal cracks and make repairs.
• Have HVAC systems inspected by a professional to ensure air conditioning units are ready for summer and heat pumps are still functioning properly after winter usage. Replace filters and clear condenser unit vents.
• Test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. Update any detectors over 10 years old.
• Inspect lawns and gardens for winter damage. Fertilize, overseed bare spots, and prune trees and shrubs. Start planting flowers and vegetables.

Summer Maintenance Checklist

Home maintenance during the summer focuses on preventing humidity and leak damage:

• On rainy summer days, closely monitor the interior and exterior of the home for any leaks and moisture intrusion. Seal any cracks, gaps and openings.
• Have carpets professionally deep cleaned before humidity causes mold and mildew growth.
• Touch up interior paint before temperature and humidity make paint less likely to adhere and dry properly.
• Schedule a tune-up for central air conditioning units to ensure maximum efficiency and cooling.
• Check window seals and re-caulk or replace any with gaps or leaks. this will save on cooling costs.
• Power wash vinyl siding, wood decks, asphalt driveways, concrete patios and walkways to refresh surfaces and maintain waterproofing.
• Maintain the lawn by mowing weekly, aerating, de-thatching, edging and fertilizing. Prune overgrown plants and bushes.

Fall Readiness Checklist

• Thoroughly clean gutters, downspouts and outdoor drains to prevent water damage once leaves start falling.
• Have furnaces professionally inspected and schedule a filter change pre-winter.
• Winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems by shutting off water supply, draining pipes and removing hoses.
• Check doors and windows for air leaks indicating a need for new weatherstripping or caulk. Replace now before winterdrafts.
• Rake fallen leaves, trim back perennials and shrubs, and prepare garden beds for colder weather.
• Fertilize lawns one last time before winter and aerate and overseed for growth next spring.

Winterizing Your Home

• Prune trees and shrubs during winter dormancy.
• Monitor home for cold air drafts and leaks - add weatherstripping or caulk as needed to save on heating costs.
• Check insulation levels in the attic. Add more if below R-38 recommended for colder climates.
• Have fireplaces, chimneys and flues inspected and cleaned before use. Stock up on firewood.
• Reverse ceiling fan direction to push warm air back down into living spaces.
• Test emergency heat sources like generators along with snow blowers and shovels.

By diligently following seasonal home maintenance checklists, you can keep your house in great shape all year long. Let me know if you need any help inspecting or repairing items on your to-do list!