Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist: Stay Ahead of Repairs

Owning a home is exciting—but it’s also a commitment to keeping your property safe, comfortable, and efficient all year long. The best way to avoid surprise repairs? A simple, seasonal home maintenance routine. Use this approachable checklist to plan your tasks by season, with examples, time-saving tips, and budget-friendly ideas. (No matter your home’s age or style, these steps apply.)

Quick-Glance Annual Checklist

• ✅ Change HVAC filters (every 1–3 months)
• ✅ Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (every season)
• ✅ Clean gutters and downspouts (spring & fall)
• ✅ Inspect roof and siding (spring)
• ✅ Service HVAC (spring for AC, fall for heat)
• ✅ Check for water leaks (every season)
• ✅ Trim trees/shrubs away from the house (spring/summer)
• ✅ Seal gaps and cracks for energy efficiency (fall)
• ✅ Prepare for storms and winter weather (fall)
• ✅ Deep clean high-use areas (spring & fall)

Spring: Refresh & Inspect

Why spring matters: Winter can be tough on your home. Spring is the time to inspect, clean, and reset.

Top Tasks

1. Roof & Exterior Check
   • Look for missing or curled shingles, damaged flashing, or cracked siding.
   • Example: If you spot granules in gutters, shingles may be aging—schedule a roof assessment.
2. Gutters & Downspouts
   • Clean out leaves and debris so water flows away from the foundation.
   • Add downspout extenders if water pools near the house.
3. Foundation & Grading
   • Walk your property after heavy rain. Ensure soil slopes away from the home to prevent basement or crawlspace moisture.
4. Windows & Doors
   • Clean tracks, replace torn screens, and check caulk to improve comfort and keep pests out.
5. HVAC: Cooling Prep
   • Replace filters and schedule a professional A/C tune-up before the first heat wave.
6. Plumbing & Water
   • Test outdoor spigots and irrigation for leaks. Look under sinks for slow drips or discoloration.
7. Decks, Patios & Walkways
   • Pressure wash, check for loose boards, and seal surfaces as needed.

Bonus Spring Projects

• Curb appeal lifts: Fresh mulch, trimmed shrubs, and a front-door repaint.
• Safety sweep: Test smoke/CO detectors and check fire extinguishers.

Summer: Maintain Comfort & Outdoor Areas

Why summer matters: Warm weather means higher energy use and outdoor living. Focus on efficiency and upkeep.

Top Tasks

1. Cooling Efficiency
   • Change filters monthly in peak season. Keep vents open and unobstructed.
   • Tip: Close blinds during the day to reduce heat gain.
2. Irrigation & Landscaping
   • Fix leaking sprinkler heads; overwatering can damage foundations and waste water.
   • Trim trees away from roof and power lines; remove dead branches.
3. Pest Prevention
   • Seal gaps around pipes and doors; store firewood away from the house.
4. Exterior Paint & Caulk
   • Touch up peeling paint and re-caulk gaps to protect against summer storms.
5. Deck & Fence Maintenance
   • Check fasteners, stain/seal wood surfaces to protect from sun and moisture.
6. Appliance Tune-ups
   • Clean refrigerator coils and dryer vents for energy savings and fire safety.

Bonus Summer Projects

• Outdoor lighting: Add solar path lights for safety and style.
• Storm kit check: Stock flashlights, batteries, first aid, and a manual can opener.

Fall: Seal, Service & Storm-Prep

Why fall matters: Prepare for colder temperatures and storms; prevent drafts and frozen pipes.

Top Tasks

1. Heating System Service
   • Schedule a furnace/boiler tune-up; replace filters; bleed radiators if applicable.
2. Weatherization
   • Install weatherstripping around doors/windows; caulk exterior gaps; add door sweeps.
   • Example: A $15 roll of weatherstripping can cut drafts dramatically.
3. Gutters (Round 2)
   • Clean again after leaves drop; ensure downspouts are clear and secure.
4. Chimney & Fireplace
   • Have chimneys inspected/cleaned before use; check for creosote buildup.
5. Insulation Check
   • Peek in the attic for even coverage; look for signs of moisture or pests.
6. Exterior & Lawn
   • Drain/flush irrigation; disconnect and store hoses; aerate and seed lawn if needed.
7. Safety & Storm Prep
   • Test smoke/CO detectors; review emergency plans; store de-icing materials and snow shovels where you can reach them easily.

Bonus Fall Projects

• Energy audit: Identify air leaks and insulation needs.
• Entryway prep: Boot trays, sturdy mats, and coat hooks ready for wet/snowy days.

Winter: Protect Against Cold & Moisture

Why winter matters: Prevent freezing, manage moisture, and keep systems running smoothly.

Top Tasks

1. Freeze Protection
   • Keep interior temps consistent; open cabinet doors under sinks (if extremely cold) to warm pipes.
   • Insulate exposed pipes in basements/garages; know where your main water shutoff is.
2. Ice Dam Prevention
   • After snow, safely clear roof edges and maintain ventilation to reduce attic heat buildup.
3. Indoor Air & Ventilation
   • Run bathroom fans during/after showers; use kitchen hood when cooking.
   • Tip: A small dehumidifier can help manage winter condensation on windows.
4. Heating System Care
   • Replace filters regularly; listen for unusual sounds; set programmable thermostats for steady warmth.
5. Safety Checks
   • Test smoke/CO detectors monthly; keep fuel-burning appliances vented and clear.
6. Walkway Safety
   • Use pet-safe or plant-safe de-icer on driveways and paths; reduce slip hazards.

Bonus Winter Projects

• Emergency readiness: Keep bottled water, non-perishable foods, blankets, and phone chargers accessible.
• Interior TLC: Touch up paint, tighten loose cabinet hardware, and deep clean high-traffic areas.

Budget-Friendly Maintenance Tips

• Batch tasks: Combine seasonal chores into one weekend to save on service calls.
• Keep a home binder or app: Track filter changes, service dates, and warranty info.
• Prioritize safety & water issues first: Deals with roofs, leaks, and electrical problems early.
• DIY vs. Pro: Small jobs like caulking and filter changes are DIY-friendly; roofing, electrical, and major HVAC work should be handled by licensed professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I service my HVAC system?
A: Ideally twice a year—cooling in spring and heating in fall. Replace filters every 1–3 months depending on usage.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent water damage?
A: Keep gutters clean, ensure downspouts extend away from the foundation, seal window/door gaps, and check for leaks under sinks and near appliances regularly.

Q: What simple upgrades save the most energy?
A: Weatherstripping doors/windows, sealing gaps with caulk, installing a programmable thermostat, and maintaining HVAC filters.

Q: Do these tips apply to condos or townhomes?
A: Many do—especially interior maintenance and safety checks. For exterior items, review your association’s responsibilities and guidelines.