Spring Maintenance Checklist

As winter comes to a close, it’s time to tackle essential home maintenance tasks in preparation for the warmer season. Beyond your typical spring cleaning, this Spring Home Maintenance Checklist will help ensure your home is safe, efficient, and ready for spring. Here are the tasks HHT recommends you check off your list.

🏡 Roof & Attic:

✅ Inspect shingles for winter damage; repair or replace as needed.
After a harsh winter, it’s important to inspect your roof for any damage caused by snow, ice, or freezing temperatures. Look for missing, cracked, or curled shingles. If you notice any damage, repair or replace them promptly to avoid leaks and further wear.

✅ Check attic for water stains, leaks, and proper ventilation.
Water stains on the attic ceiling or insulation may indicate a roof leak or moisture buildup. Inspect the attic for any signs of leaks, and ensure the attic is properly ventilated, as poor airflow can cause moisture buildup, leading to mold growth and wood rot.

✅ Ensure attic ducts are properly sealed and power vents are functional.
Leaky ducts in your attic can lead to energy loss and higher heating and cooling costs. Make sure all ducts are properly sealed. Additionally, check the power vents to ensure they’re working, as they help regulate attic temperature and reduce moisture buildup.

🔥 Chimney & Gutters:

✅ Inspect chimney for cracks, missing mortar, or flashing issues.
The chimney is exposed to the elements, so regular inspection is key to keeping it functional and safe. Look for cracks or gaps in the mortar, as these can let moisture in and cause further damage. 

✅ Clean gutters and downspouts; ensure they drain away from the foundation.
Clogged gutters can lead to water backing up, causing leaks and even foundation damage. Clean out leaves, twigs, and debris from the gutters and downspouts regularly

✅ Repair or replace damaged gutters; seal leaks with roofing cement or caulk.
If you notice any sections of your gutters that are cracked, bent, or damaged, repair or replace them. Sealing any small leaks with roofing cement or caulk can prevent water damage to the exterior of your home.

🏠 Siding, Paint & Exterior:

✅ Check siding for cracks, warping, or decay; repair or replace as needed.
Inspect your siding for any cracks, warping, or signs of decay, especially after winter. If needed, replace damaged panels or re-secure loose siding to ensure your home is well-protected.

✅ Inspect exterior paint for peeling or mildew; clean, prime, and repaint if necessary.
Exterior paint not only adds curb appeal but also protects your home from the weather. Look for peeling, cracking, or signs of mildew. 

✅ Examine doors and window frames for damage; repaint or repair as needed.
Check the condition of your doors and window frames. Look for signs of damage such as rot, peeling paint, or gaps that could lead to drafts. Repainting or repairing them can help maintain energy efficiency and prevent water from seeping in.

🏗️ Foundation & Basement:

✅ Inspect foundation for cracks; repair small ones and consult a professional for major issues.
Foundation cracks are common, but it’s important to address them quickly to avoid larger structural problems. 

✅ Ensure the ground slopes away from the house to prevent water damage.
A properly sloped yard is crucial to ensuring that rainwater flows away from the foundation. If the ground near your home slopes inward, water can pool around the foundation, leading to potential leaks and moisture issues.

✅ Check basement/crawl space for moisture, rot, or pest damage; ventilate and repair as needed.
Basements and crawl spaces are prone to moisture buildup, which can lead to mold, rot, and pest problems. Inspect these areas for signs of dampness or pests, and make necessary repairs. 

💦 Sprinkler System:

✅ Schedule sprinkler system turn-on and check for leaks, clogged heads, or broken lines.
Before you start using your sprinkler system for the season, schedule a professional inspection to ensure it’s working properly. Check for leaks, clogged sprinkler heads, or broken lines that could waste water or result in uneven coverage.

✅ Adjust sprinkler coverage to ensure efficient watering and prevent oversaturation.
Ensure that your sprinklers are properly adjusted to cover your entire lawn or garden, without over-watering any specific areas. Over-saturation can lead to water runoff, while under-watering may leave parts of your landscape dry and unhealthy.

🛠️ Driveway, Steps & Septic System:

✅ Inspect concrete and asphalt for cracks; repair to prevent further damage.
Cracks in your driveway or walkways can get worse over time if not addressed. Small cracks can be filled with crack filler, while larger cracks or sections of damage may require resurfacing or replacement.

✅ Check steps for cracks or uneven sections; repair if needed.
Uneven or cracked steps can be a tripping hazard. Inspect steps leading to your home for any cracks or shifts in position, and repair or level them as necessary to ensure safe access.

✅ If septic tank levels are high, schedule a pumping.
Septic tanks should be pumped regularly to ensure proper functioning. If you notice slow drains or suspect your tank is full, schedule a professional inspection and pumping.

Spring is a time of renewal, and it’s the perfect opportunity to ensure your home is ready for the season ahead. Take the time to prepare and refresh your space so you can fully enjoy all that spring has to offer.