Spring maintenance addresses winter damage, prepares systems for warm weather, and prevents problems before they worsen in summer heat. After months of freezing temperatures, ice, snow, and wind, your home's exterior, roof, gutters, HVAC, plumbing, and landscaping all need attention.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Guide
- Inspect the roof — Look for missing, damaged, or curling shingles from winter storms. Check flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Look for signs of moss or algae. Schedule professional re...
- Clean gutters and downspouts — Remove debris accumulated over winter. Verify water flows freely and downspouts direct water at least 4-6 feet from the foundation. Repair sagging or detached sections.
- Check the foundation — Walk the exterior looking for new cracks, settling, or water damage. Inside, check basement walls and floors for moisture, stains, or new cracks. Address drainage issues imme...
- Service the AC system — Schedule a professional tune-up before the cooling season begins. Replace air filters, clean condenser coils, check refrigerant levels, and test thermostat operation.
- Inspect windows and doors — Check weather stripping and caulking. Open and close all windows to verify operation. Repair or replace damaged screens. Clean window tracks and lubricate hardware.
- Check exterior paint and siding — Look for peeling paint, cracks, gaps, and rot. Repair damaged areas before moisture penetrates further. Power wash siding, brick, and stone.
- Inspect and clean the deck/patio — Check for loose boards, protruding nails, rot, and structural issues. Power wash and apply sealant or stain as needed.
- Test outdoor plumbing — Slowly open exterior faucets (hose bibs) and check for leaks caused by winter freezing. Inspect sprinkler systems for broken heads and adjust coverage. Test the sump pump by...
- Address pest prevention — Inspect the foundation, soffits, and eaves for entry points. Seal gaps and cracks. March-June is prime termite season — schedule a termite inspection if not done recently.
- Prepare the lawn and landscape — Dethatch and aerate the lawn, apply pre-emergent weed control, prune trees and shrubs (after last frost), edge beds, and mulch garden areas.
Common Mistakes
- Skipping the roof inspection
- Waiting too long to service the AC
- Ignoring gutter maintenance
- Not checking the sump pump
- Power washing incorrectly
Pro Tips
- Create a spring checklist and calendar
- Schedule professional services early
- Inspect your crawl space
- Replace smoke detector batteries
- Check grading around the foundation