Seasonal Home Maintenance

Spring is the best time to inspect for winter damage and prepare the house for warmer months.

1. Inspect roof for winter damage — missing or damaged shingles, flashing lifted

2. Clean gutters and downspouts — flush with hose to verify flow

3. Check exterior paint and caulking — repair any peeling or gaps

4. Inspect foundation for new cracks from frost heave

5. Service AC unit — clean condenser coils, replace filter, schedule professional tune-up

6. Check grading around foundation — fill any low spots that developed over winter

7. Test irrigation system — check for broken heads, adjust coverage

8. Check window and door weatherstripping — replace if worn

9. Clean dryer vent duct

10. Test smoke and CO detectors, replace batteries

- Skipping roof inspection after winter (small leaks become big problems)

- Not cleaning gutters (water overflows and damages fascia and foundation)

- Not servicing AC before summer (breakdowns during heat waves)

- Not checking foundation drainage (winter settling creates reverse grade)

- Not testing detectors (batteries may have died)

Fall preparation prevents winter damage. Focus on heating systems, weatherization, and exterior protection.

1. Schedule furnace/heating tune-up before cold weather

2. Replace furnace filter

3. Clean gutters after leaves fall

4. Inspect roof before winter — repair any issues before snow

5. Seal gaps and cracks in exterior (caulk around windows, doors, penetrations)

6. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas (prevent freezing)

7. Winterize irrigation system — blow out lines, shut off exterior faucets

8. Check chimney and fireplace — schedule cleaning if used regularly

9. Reverse ceiling fans (clockwise in winter — pushes warm air down)

10. Test heating system — run for a full cycle before you need it

11. Check weatherstripping on doors and windows

12. Stock emergency supplies (flashlight, batteries, water) for winter storms

- Not servicing furnace (breakdowns during cold snaps)

- Not cleaning gutters (ice dams form)

- Not winterizing irrigation (pipes burst)

- Not insulating exposed pipes (freeze and burst)

- Not checking roof before winter (leaks under snow are hard to fix)

- Not testing heating system early (discover problems before emergency)