Just like your car, your home needs a regular tune-up to keep it running at its best. Use this checklist to organize your chores so you can minimize stress and enjoy each season.
Spring
As the winter weather fades away, spring is the perfect time to tackle outdoor maintenance. Be sure to check outdoor vents for debris, and clear gutters and downspouts. Also look for overgrown tree roots that could damage foundations, driveways, and walkways.
Other items in your spring to-do list should include:
- Check the attic and basement for cracks that could have allowed water to seep in. (This is especially important after a wet winter.)
- Remove furniture, and deep clean carpets and floors.
- Clean ceiling fans, and give all rooms a thorough dusting.
- Have the HVAC system serviced.
Summer
There may be no better time for outdoor maintenance than summer due to the consistently warmer weather and increased daylight. Take advantage of it to repair and re-stain decks; power wash the driveway, siding, decks, and windows; replace any loose or damaged shingles; trim tree branches and shrubs; and repair cracks in sidewalks, driveways, or steps.
You should also do these summer maintenance tasks:
- Prepare the rain storage system to water the lawn in dry months.
- Change the air filter in the HVAC system.
- Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
Fall
The fall season is an important time for maintenance tasks. You want to get ready for the winter before it gets too cold, including storing patio or lawn furniture, and organizing your garage or storage shed. Get your chimney inspected and cleaned in preparation for the cold weather. And don’t forget to check for cracks around external doors and windows, and repair where necessary.
It’s also recommended that you:
- Check dryer hoses, and change out filters and lint traps.
- Flush your hot water heater by draining water completely to remove sediment.
- Check outdoor vents for debris.
- Have the HVAC system serviced.
Winter
The cold, dark winter months are the time to focus on important indoor maintenance. Caulk the sink, toilet, and bathtub, and reseal tile grout. Organize closets and drawers, and donate used or unwanted items. Also wipe down baseboards and doors, and touch up peeling paint where necessary.
In addition, winter is the time to:
- Clean windows, and wipe down windowsills.
- Change the air filter in the HVAC system.
- Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
- Activate the sump pump by dumping a bucket of water into the basin.
Be sure to bookmark this page, or download your own seasonal home maintenance schedule so you can refer back to the checklist at the start of each new season.
