Home maintenance, season by season
Most expensive repairs start as something small and cheap. This is the short list worth keeping to — and the trade to call when a job is beyond a Saturday.
Spring
Undo the winter and get ahead of the growing season.
- Clear gutters and downpipes of winter debrisFind a pro →
- Check the roof for slipped or cracked shinglesFind a pro →
- Service the air conditioning before the first hot weekFind a pro →
- Reseal exterior wood — decks, fences, trimFind a pro →
- Start the irrigation system and check for leaksFind a pro →
Summer
The right window for outdoor work and bigger projects.
- Pressure wash siding, driveway and patioFind a pro →
- Treat for pests before they establishFind a pro →
- Check exterior paint and touch up bare patchesFind a pro →
- Inspect the deck for soft boards and loose railsFind a pro →
- Keep trees trimmed back from the roof and linesFind a pro →
Autumn
Prepare for the cold — this is the season that prevents damage.
- Service the furnace before you need itFind a pro →
- Clear gutters again after the leaves dropFind a pro →
- Seal gaps around windows and doorsFind a pro →
- Have the chimney swept if you burn anythingFind a pro →
- Shut off and drain exterior tapsFind a pro →
Winter
Watch for the problems cold weather creates.
- Keep an eye out for ice dams at the roof edgeFind a pro →
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated spacesFind a pro →
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarmsFind a pro →
- Check the attic for condensation and dampFind a pro →
- Keep paths clear and safe underfootFind a pro →