Year-Round Home Maintenance: A Seasonal Guide
Temp Services Editorial Team
Home Service Cost Experts
Preventive maintenance saves thousands in emergency repairs and extends the life of your home's systems. This seasonal checklist helps you stay ahead of problems and schedule maintenance when contractors are less busy and rates are lower.
Spring Maintenance (March-May)
After winter, inspect your roof for damage from ice, snow, and wind. Clean gutters of debris accumulated over winter. Check the exterior for peeling paint or damaged siding. Service your AC before summer—technicians are less busy in spring. Inspect the foundation for cracks that may have developed from freeze-thaw cycles. Dethatch and aerate your lawn to prepare for the growing season.
Summer Maintenance (June-August)
Check your deck for loose boards, popping nails, or rotted wood while you're using it frequently. Inspect weather-stripping on doors and windows. Clean dryer vents, which can become fire hazards when clogged. Service your irrigation system and check for leaks. Have your chimney cleaned if you use a wood-burning fireplace—summer is off-season for chimney sweeps.
Fall Maintenance (September-November)
Schedule furnace maintenance before winter—a tune-up prevents mid-winter breakdowns. Clean gutters after leaves fall. Winterize outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems before the first freeze. Seal gaps around doors and windows. Check insulation in the attic. Have your roof inspected before winter weather arrives.
Winter Maintenance (December-February)
Monitor for ice dams on your roof—they indicate insulation or ventilation issues. Check for drafts around windows and doors. Inspect visible pipes for insulation and freeze risk. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms (increased heating use increases CO risk). Service your water heater—it works harder in winter.
The Value of Preventive Maintenance
An annual HVAC tune-up costs $100-150 but prevents $1,000+ emergency repairs. Regular gutter cleaning prevents foundation damage costing thousands. Catching a small roof leak early prevents structural damage. Budget for maintenance as a percentage of your home's value—typically 1-4% annually.
✓ Key Takeaways
- Schedule HVAC maintenance in the off-season (AC in spring, furnace in fall)
- Clean gutters twice yearly—spring and late fall
- Address small repairs before they become major problems
- Winter is ideal for indoor projects; summer for exterior work
- Budget 1-4% of your home's value annually for maintenance