Wednesday, November 6, 2024 / by Jason Salem
Year-Round Home Maintenance Guide: Seasonal Tips to Keep Your Home in Top Shape
As a homeowner, regular maintenance is essential to protect your investment and ensure your home stays in great condition year-round. By focusing on seasonal tasks, you can address weather-related wear, keep your home energy-efficient, and avoid costly repairs. Here’s a helpful guide for seasonal home maintenance tasks to keep your property running smoothly throughout the year.
Spring is the season of renewal, making it the perfect time to tackle maintenance projects that prepare your home for warmer weather.
- Inspect the Roof and Gutters: Winter weather can cause damage to your roof. Check for loose or missing shingles and clean out gutters to prevent water damage from spring rains.
- Check for Leaks and Foundation Cracks: As snow melts, inspect your basement and foundation for signs of moisture, which can lead to mold or structural damage if not addressed.
- Service Your Air Conditioner: Schedule a professional inspection and clean or replace air filters to ensure your AC runs efficiently during the summer heat.
- Clean Windows and Screens: Wash windows inside and out, and inspect screens for any holes or tears that could let in insects.
- Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Change batteries and make sure all detectors are functioning properly.
Summer heat means more stress on cooling systems and more time spent outdoors. These tasks will help you stay cool and maintain your yard.
- Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors: Check for drafts and add weather-stripping or caulking where needed to keep cool air inside and reduce energy costs.
- Maintain Your Lawn and Garden: Keep grass trimmed, water appropriately, and remove weeds. Consider planting shade trees to help naturally cool your home.
- Check Exterior Paint and Siding: Look for peeling paint or cracks in siding. Touch-ups can help protect your home from moisture and pests.
- Power Wash Driveways and Decks: Remove built-up grime and mildew with a power wash. For wooden decks, consider resealing to prevent warping or splinters.
- Test Your Home’s Drainage: Make sure your yard is draining away from the foundation to prevent basement flooding.
Fall is the time to ready your home for colder weather and protect it from potential winter damage.
- Clean and Inspect the Furnace: Schedule a professional tune-up, replace filters, and ensure your heating system is prepared for a season of heavy use.
- Check Weatherproofing on Doors and Windows: Inspect and replace any damaged weather-stripping to prevent heat loss.
- Inspect the Chimney and Fireplace: For homes with a fireplace, have it cleaned and inspected to ensure it’s safe for use.
- Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts: Clear leaves and debris to prevent blockages that could lead to ice dams or water damage when temperatures drop.
- Drain and Store Garden Hoses: Drain outdoor hoses and store them in a dry place. Shut off exterior faucets and drain sprinkler systems to avoid frozen pipes.
Winter maintenance tasks focus on staying safe and protecting your home from freezing temperatures, snow, and ice.
- Monitor Indoor Humidity Levels: Use a humidifier to keep indoor air comfortable. This also helps prevent wood floors and furniture from drying out and cracking.
- Keep Walkways and Driveways Clear of Snow and Ice: Shovel snow promptly and use salt or sand on walkways to prevent slipping hazards.
- Inspect the Attic for Leaks or Drafts: Proper attic insulation can reduce heating bills. Check for any signs of water damage or airflow could indicate leaks.
- Reverse Ceiling Fans: Set ceiling fans to spin clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling, helping to heat your home more efficiently.
- Check Your Sump Pump: If you have a sump pump, test it periodically to ensure it’s working properly to prevent basement flooding during winter thaws
By following these seasonal maintenance tips, you’ll keep your home safe, efficient, and ready for whatever the weather brings. A little time and effort each season can prevent costly repairs, enhance your home’s comfort, and increase its value.
Stay on top of your home maintenance all year, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is in great shape!
About the Author
Jason Salem is a licensed REALTOR® with REALTEAM Real Estate, specializing in helping clients buy and sell homes with confidence. With a deep understanding of the local market and a passion for guiding homeowners through every stage of the real estate journey, Jason is dedicated to providing expert advice and unmatched service. He’s also a proud partner of the Homes For Heroes program, supporting heroes in the community. For more tips or to discuss your real estate needs, contact Jason at jsalem@mirealteam.com or www.jasonsalem.com
