Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your House in Top Shape

Regular maintenance prevents expensive repairs. Think of it like taking your car in for oil changes—small investments of time now save you major headaches later.

Here’s your seasonal guide to keeping your home in excellent condition.

Spring Maintenance (March - May)

After winter’s harsh conditions, spring is the perfect time to assess and repair.

Exterior

• Inspect the roof: Look for missing or damaged shingles, especially after winter storms
• Clean gutters and downspouts: Remove debris and check for proper drainage
• Check exterior caulking: Reseal around windows and doors where caulk has cracked
• Power wash siding: Remove winter grime and mildew
• Inspect deck and fence: Look for rot, loose boards, and failing stain/paint
• Service air conditioning: Clean or replace filters before cooling season
• Check grading: Ensure soil slopes away from foundation to prevent water intrusion

Interior

• Test smoke and CO detectors: Replace batteries even if they seem fine
• Check for water damage: Look in attic and basement for signs of leaks
• Clean dryer vent: Reduce fire risk and improve efficiency
• Reverse ceiling fans: Switch to counter-clockwise for cooling
• Deep clean: Windows, carpets, behind appliances

Summer Maintenance (June - August)

Summer’s heat can stress your home’s systems.

Exterior

• Inspect and seal driveway: Fill cracks before they expand
• Trim trees and shrubs: Keep branches at least 6 feet from house
• Check irrigation system: Look for leaks and adjust for efficient watering
• Inspect windows: Check for cracks in glass, gaps in weatherstripping
• Monitor foundation: Look for new cracks or settling

Interior

• Change AC filters monthly: During peak usage
• Check attic ventilation: Ensure proper airflow to prevent heat buildup
• Test sump pump: Pour water in pit to verify it activates
• Inspect plumbing: Check under sinks for leaks
• Clean refrigerator coils: Improves efficiency and extends life

Fall Maintenance (September - November)

Prepare your home for winter before the cold arrives.

Exterior

• Clean gutters again: After leaves fall
• Inspect roof: One more check before winter
• Seal drafts: Caulk and weatherstrip windows and doors
• Drain exterior faucets: Prevent freeze damage
• Store or cover outdoor furniture: Protect from winter weather
• Service heating system: Clean or replace furnace filters, consider professional service
• Chimney inspection: Have it cleaned and inspected if you use it regularly
• Check insulation: Especially in attic and basement

Interior

• Test windows and doors: Feel for drafts and seal as needed
• Reverse ceiling fans: Switch to clockwise to push warm air down
• Check weather stripping: Replace if worn or damaged
• Bleed radiators: If you have hot water or steam heat
• Stock up on winter supplies: Salt, shovels, emergency supplies

Winter Maintenance (December - February)

Stay vigilant even in the cold months.

Exterior

• Remove snow from roof: Especially after heavy snowfall (hire professionals for steep roofs)
• Keep gutters clear of ice: Use roof rake carefully
• Check for ice dams: Address before they cause leaks
• Maintain walkways: Keep clear and salted for safety
• Monitor for ice accumulation: Around foundation and drainage areas

Interior

• Check for drafts: Feel around windows, doors, outlets
• Monitor humidity: Use dehumidifier in basement to prevent mold
• Test generators: If you have backup power
• Keep pipes warm: Let faucets drip during extreme cold
• Check insulation: Around pipes in unheated spaces
• Vacuum heating vents: Remove dust buildup

Monthly Year-Round Tasks

Do these every month, regardless of season:

• Test GFCI outlets: Push test button, ensure it trips
• Check under sinks: Look for leaks or moisture
• Clean range hood filter: Prevent grease buildup
• Inspect fire extinguishers: Check pressure gauge
• Run garbage disposal with ice: Cleans blades

Annual Professional Inspections

Some tasks are best left to professionals:

• HVAC service: Annual tune-up for heating and cooling
• Chimney cleaning: If you use your fireplace regularly
• Septic system: Pumping every 3-5 years
• Water heater flush: Annual sediment removal
• Termite inspection: Especially in high-risk areas

The Bottom Line

Consistent maintenance is far less expensive than emergency repairs. Set reminders on your phone, create a checklist, and tackle tasks systematically.

Don’t have time for maintenance? We can help with seasonal check-ups and preventive maintenance. Contact us to set up a regular maintenance schedule.