A home runs smoothly when it’s given proper care year-round. Seasonal changes affect everything from its exterior to the systems hidden behind the walls. A seasonal home maintenance routine helps homeowners stay ahead of problems before they turn into costly repairs. Dividing tasks by season makes the list manageable and ensures that every corner of the home gets proper attention. Irrespective of the task involved, consistent upkeep offers many long-term benefits for homeowners.
Spring Checklist
As the days grow warmer and the snow starts to melt, the spring season will inspire one to start cleaning, inspecting, and preparing. The milder weather makes it easier to work outdoors and carry out maintenance tasks to undo the damage winter has caused to one’s house.
- Roof and Gutters: Snow or ice accumulated on the roof may cause damage. It is time to look for damaged parts, curled or missing shingles, clogged gutters, or leaks. Clear out the debris to prevent water from backing up into the house.
- Lawn and Garden: The next thing on a spring cleaning checklist is the lawn or the garden. Check for fallen branches to avoid stepping on a sharp one. Rake the old leaves from the ground and prepare the garden beds for the spring. Start reseeding the lawn during early spring. It is also the right time to trim back the shrubs. Fertilization is another task to tick off on the to-do list.
- Windows and Screens: Check all the windows and the screens for any drafts or cracked glass. If any windows need washing, hire a professional for the task. Reinstall window screens that were taken down and stored away during the winter.
- HVAC System: HVAC systems are vital in maintaining clean air indoors. During spring, clean the air filters to help these systems function optimally during the warmer weather.
- Siding and Foundation: Take a walk in the garden or the lawn and carefully examine the property’s exterior. Make a note of any loose siding, cracks in the walls, or other signs of weather damage. This is a good time to pressure wash the siding. If any sealant or paint touch-ups are needed, spring is the right time for them.
Summer Checklist
The longer days and drier weather during summer make it ideal for repair work. This is the time to get outdoor projects and regular upkeep checked off the maintenance list.
- Painting and Sealing: Warm weather is suitable for the paint and sealant to cure properly. Resealing decks, repainting the trims, and touching up the fences are things to get done. It helps protect the wood and other surfaces from environmental damage.
- Pest Control: Check the home’s perimeter for any cracks or gaps. Keep a close eye out for any signs of infestation. Trim tree branches that are too close to the roof to prevent animals like squirrels from entering.
- Sprinkler System: Test run the sprinkler system for leaks or clogged heads. Check the local restrictions for the season and make adjustments to the watering schedule accordingly.
- Fans and Ventilation: Reversing the direction of ceiling fans and dusting them off can help during summer. Make sure they spin counterclockwise. The bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans should be cleaned to get rid of the hot and humid air effectively.
- Garage and Tools: Check the ladders, hoses, power tools, and other supplies for wear and tear. Make sure they are stored in good condition. Installing ventilation panels can keep the garage from getting too hot.
Fall Checklist
This is the ideal period for inspecting and winterizing the house for colder months. Taking care of these tasks in time helps prevent damage from the ice, snow, and freezing temperatures.
- Heating System: Test thermostats, clean filters, and check for carbon monoxide leaks. Inspect the chimney system and clean the flue. Hire a professional to examine the heating system and the furnace.
- Insulation and Weatherproofing: If any gaps exist around the doors and windows, seal them with weather stripping or caulk. Do not forget the attic insulation. Examining this and addressing any issues helps prevent heat loss and keeps utility bills in check.
- Gutter Cleaning: Clean out the gutters once the leaves have fallen. If left untreated, blocked gutters can cause water damage and ice dams during the winter.
- Yard and Outdoor Plumbing: If the house has a sprinkler system, winterize it to prevent frozen pipes. Shut off the faucets outside the home and drain garden hoses. Trim the tree limbs to prevent them from breaking under snow or wind pressure.
- CO Detectors: Replace batteries and test all alarms periodically. Fire risks increase during the winter months. It is important to have functioning safety devices to prevent any mishaps.
Winter Checklist
The cold season doesn’t usually come with big repair projects. However, it is important to keep the home protected from freezing temperatures, snow, and ice.
- Check for Drafts: Monitor the doors and windows during the cooler months for cold air leaks. Heavy curtains or draft blockers can help retain the heat indoors.
- Monitor the Roof and Attic: After snowfall, check for ice dams or excess buildup. Use a roof rake to remove heavy ice from the roof’s edges.
- Keep Paths Clear: Snow and ice buildup on walkways can be dangerous. Keep driveways, porches, and stairs clear with regular shoveling and by using salt or sand.
- Protect Pipes: In extreme cold, allow faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving through pipes. Open cabinet doors under the sinks to allow hot air to circulate around the plumbing.
