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Essential Seasonal and Routine Care for Your Home

Everything you need to know about maintaining your home as the seasons change.

Maintaining your home is crucial for its longevity and safety. This guide outlines seasonal tasks, helpful maintenance tips, and essential tools to keep your home in excellent condition. If you encounter a situation where this guide differs from the manufacturer’s instructions, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

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Basic Tools Every Homeowner Should Have

Keep these essential tools in a medium-sized toolbox:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pair of pliers
  • Full set of screwdrivers
  • Hammer, assorted nails, and screws
  • Flashlight
  • Caulk gun and caulk (interior and exterior)
  • Paintbrushes (1”, 2”, and 3”)
  • Assorted sandpaper
  • 6-foot stepladder

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

Winter

  • Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses to prevent freezing.
  • Winterize irrigation systems.
  • Check gutters for ice buildup.
  • Clear snow or debris around the HVAC unit.
  • Avoid using salt or de-icing chemicals that can damage concrete surfaces.

Spring

  • Clean gutters to prepare for spring rains.
  • Check the roof for loose or damaged shingles using binoculars.
  • Caulk exterior openings and re-mulch shrub beds.
  • Ensure proper drainage around the foundation; add fill dirt if necessary.
  • Lubricate moving parts of the garage door.
  • Test and start the air conditioning system; clean condensation drain lines beforehand.

Summer

  • Repaint and re-caulk exterior wood every 2-3 years.
  • Treat decks and steps every 2 years to preserve their condition.
  • Lubricate windows and doors for smooth operation.
  • Ensure exterior drains are free from debris.
  • Pour 1 capful of bleach into the condensate line to clear mildew.

Fall

  • Clean gutters to prevent roof leaks from winter ice buildup.
  • Check the roof for loose or damaged shingles using binoculars.
  • Re-caulk and re-grout ceramic areas as needed.
  • Close crawl space vents to protect pipes from freezing.
  • Test and start your heating system before cold weather arrives.

 

Vacations

  • Locate and turn off the master water shut-off valve to prevent water damage in case of leaks.
  • Set the thermostat to 60°F to avoid extreme temperatures in your absence.

 

Other Maintenance Tips

Smoke Detectors

  • Replace batteries twice a year (when you change your clocks).

  • Clean annually using a vacuum.

  • Replace detectors every 5 years.

HVAC Filters

  • Inspect monthly and replace as needed.

Sprinkler System

  • Visually inspect all sprinklers regularly.

Carpet

  • Vacuum twice a week and schedule professional cleaning annually.

Tubs and Grout

  • Clean tubs every 3-4 months, following manufacturer instructions.

  • Apply a ceramic seal to grout every two years.

 

By following these maintenance tips, you can protect your home from seasonal challenges and enjoy it for years to come.