Exterior Home Maintenance Checklist: Essential Tasks to Complete in the Spring
Regular exterior home maintenance is crucial to keep your home in top shape. Neglecting maintenance can lead to expensive repairs, decrease the value of your home, and create safety hazards. Regular maintenance not only keeps your home looking great, but also prolongs the life of your home’s exterior components such as roofing, siding, windows, and doors. Additionally, regular maintenance helps to identify and fix minor issues before they become more significant problems.
As the days get longer and the temperature rises, spring is the perfect time to take care of all the exterior home maintenance tasks that may have been neglected during the winter months. In this article, we will cover the essential exterior home maintenance tasks that you should complete ensuring the longevity of your home. Be sure to check out our printable “Exterior Home Maintenance Checklist” at the bottom of the article for your convenience.
Cleaning of Leaves and Debris
Cleaning up leaves and debris from your yard and around your home is an essential task to complete in the spring. During the winter months, debris and leaves can accumulate around the foundation of your home, in gutters, and in other outdoor spaces. If not cleaned up, they can cause significant damage to your property, including blocked gutters that can lead to water damage or even basement flooding. Debris can also provide a place for pests to live and breed, increasing the likelihood of pest infestations.
To make cleaning leaves and debris more manageable, consider breaking it up into smaller tasks. Start by cleaning the gutters first, then move on to outdoor spaces, such as patios and decks. Be sure to wear gloves and protective gear to avoid injury or exposure to allergens. Consider using a leaf blower or a rake to make the job easier.
Power Washing
Power washing is a crucial task to complete in the spring to maintain the exterior of your home. Over time, dirt, grime, and other pollutants can build up on the exterior of your home, leading to discoloration and even damage. Power washing can remove these pollutants, making your home look cleaner and brighter. Power washing can also help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause health problems and damage to your home.
Before power washing, make sure to cover nearby plants and outdoor furniture to protect them from the pressure washer’s strong spray. Use a cleaning solution that’s safe for your home’s exterior material, such as vinyl or brick, and start power washing from the top down to prevent streaks. Be cautious when using a power washer, and wear protective gear, such as goggles and gloves, to avoid injury.
Exterior Home Wood Trim Maintenance
Wood trim, such as window frames and door casings, adds character to a home’s exterior. However, it’s essential to maintain it to prevent rot, warping, and other damage caused by exposure to the elements. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your home’s wood trim to ensure it’s in good condition for the upcoming summer months. Proper maintenance can extend the life of your wood trim and prevent the need for costly repairs or replacement. Damaged wood trim can also lead to air leaks and energy loss, increasing your utility bills. If left untreated, the damage can spread, leading to more extensive repairs.
Start by inspecting the wood trim for any signs of damage, such as rot or cracks. Use a putty knife to remove any loose paint or caulk, and sand the surface to create a smooth finish. Apply a primer to the bare wood to prevent moisture from penetrating and causing damage. Finally, apply a coat of paint or stain to protect the wood and improve its appearance. Consider using a paint or stain with UV protection to prevent fading from sunlight.
Air Conditioning Service
As the weather gets warmer, your air conditioning (AC) system becomes an essential part of keeping your home comfortable. However, if not maintained, it can lead to reduced efficiency and higher energy bills. Spring is an ideal time to service your AC system to ensure it’s working correctly before the summer months. Proper maintenance can also extend the life of your AC system and prevent costly repairs. Additionally, neglecting to service your AC system can potentially void your warranty.
Start by checking the air filters and replacing them if they’re dirty or clogged. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and cause your AC system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills. Next (if you are handy, if not hire a pro), clean the evaporator and condenser coils, which can become dirty over time and reduce the AC system’s efficiency. Check the refrigerant levels and add more if necessary. Finally, inspect the AC system’s electrical components, such as wiring and capacitors, to ensure they’re in good condition.
Erosion/Drainage Exterior Home Maintenance
Erosion and poor drainage can cause damage to your home’s foundation and landscape, leading to costly repairs. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your home’s drainage system to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Proper maintenance can prevent soil erosion, protect your landscape, and prevent water from seeping into your home’s foundation, leading to water damage and mold growth.
Start by inspecting your home’s drainage system, including gutters, downspouts, and drainage pipes. Remove any debris or leaves that may have accumulated over the winter. Ensure the gutters are correctly attached and the downspouts direct water away from the home’s foundation. If necessary, extend downspouts to direct water further away from the foundation. Inspect your landscape for any signs of soil erosion and consider installing retaining walls, landscaping fabric, or plants to prevent erosion.
Landscaping Maintenance
Landscaping plays a crucial role in improving your home’s curb appeal and increasing its value. However, neglecting to maintain your landscape can lead to overgrowth, pests, and other issues that can reduce your home’s appearance and value. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your landscape to ensure it’s healthy and thriving for the upcoming summer months. Proper maintenance can improve your home’s appearance, prevent pests and diseases, and extend the life of your plants and trees.
Start by removing any dead or damaged branches, leaves, or other debris that may have accumulated over the winter. Prune your plants and trees to remove any dead or diseased branches and promote healthy growth. Fertilize your lawn and plants to provide them with the necessary nutrients to thrive. Install a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing. Finally, check your irrigation system and make any necessary repairs or adjustments to ensure your plants are getting the right amount of water.
Deck Maintenance
Decks are an excellent addition to any home, providing a space for outdoor entertainment and relaxation. However, neglecting to maintain your deck can lead to rot, decay, and other issues that can reduce its lifespan and pose a safety hazard. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your deck to ensure it’s safe and ready for use. Proper maintenance can prevent rot and decay, improve your deck’s appearance, and extend its life.
Start by inspecting your deck for any signs of rot, decay, or damage. Check the deck boards, stairs, and railings for any loose or damaged components. Repair or replace any damaged or rotting components to ensure the deck is safe and structurally sound. Next, clean the deck using a power washer or a deck cleaning solution to remove any dirt, grime, or mildew that may have accumulated over the winter. Finally, apply a waterproofing sealant to protect your deck from moisture and UV damage.
Lawn Maintenance
A well-maintained lawn not only enhances the beauty of your home and the overall health of your property. Spring is the ideal time to get your lawn ready for the growing season. Proper lawn maintenance can promote healthy growth, improve curb appeal, and prevent pests and diseases.
Start by removing any debris, such as fallen leaves and branches, from your lawn. This will help prevent disease and promote healthy growth. Apply a slow-release fertilizer to provide your lawn with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Ensure that you water your lawn adequately to keep it hydrated and healthy. Mow your lawn regularly, but avoid cutting it too short, as this can damage the grass. Finally, consider reseeding any bare or thin areas to promote fuller growth.
Exterior Home Window and Door Maintenance
Windows and doors are an essential part of your home’s structure, providing natural light and ventilation while keeping out the elements. Proper maintenance can prevent air leaks, water damage, and other issues that can compromise the integrity of your home. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your windows and doors to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Start by inspecting your windows and doors for any signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or broken seals. Repair or replace any damaged components to ensure they are functioning correctly. Next, clean the glass and frames using mild detergent and a soft cloth. Finally, apply a lubricant to the hinges, locks, and tracks to ensure they are operating smoothly.
Roof Inspection
Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home’s structure, protecting it from the elements and ensuring your safety and comfort. A roof that is not maintained can lead to leaks, water damage, and other issues that can compromise the integrity of your home. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your roof to ensure it’s ready for the upcoming weather.
Start by inspecting your roof for any signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or leaks. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as rusted flashing or damaged vent pipes. Clear any debris, such as leaves and branches, from your roof to prevent clogs and damage. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear and functioning correctly to prevent water damage. Finally, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor to perform a more thorough inspection and make any necessary repairs.
Siding and Brick Maintenance
Your home’s siding and brickwork play a vital role in protecting it from the elements, while also enhancing its curb appeal. Siding and brickwork that are not maintained can lead to leaks, water damage, and other issues that can compromise the integrity of your home. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your siding and brickwork to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Start by inspecting your siding and brickwork for any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or discoloration. Repair any damaged components to prevent further deterioration. Clean your siding and brickwork using a mild detergent and a soft brush or pressure washer, being careful not to damage any components. Finally, consider applying a sealant or paint to protect your siding and brickwork from further damage.
Garage Door Maintenance
Your garage door is an essential component of your home’s security and functionality, providing access to your home and protecting your belongings. Regular maintenance can help ensure that your garage door is functioning correctly and reduce the risk of malfunctions or accidents. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your garage door to ensure it’s in good working condition.
Start by inspecting your garage door for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or damage to the panels, springs, or cables. Test your garage door opener to ensure it’s functioning correctly and lubricate any moving parts, such as hinges and rollers. Tighten any loose hardware, such as nuts and bolts, and replace any damaged or worn components. Consider scheduling a professional garage door inspection to ensure that your door is functioning correctly and make any necessary repairs, attempting to repair or maintain your garage door without the proper tools or knowledge can lead to accidents or injuries.
Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting can enhance the safety, security, and ambiance of your home’s exterior, providing illumination for pathways, driveways, and entryways. Regular maintenance can help ensure that your outdoor lighting is functioning correctly, and reduce the risk of accidents or malfunctions. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your outdoor lighting to ensure it’s in good working condition.
Start by inspecting your outdoor lighting fixtures for any signs of damage, such as cracks or corrosion. Replace any damaged components, such as bulbs or wiring. Clean your fixtures using a mild detergent and a soft brush or cloth, being careful not to damage any components. Test your lighting fixtures to ensure they are functioning correctly, and adjust any misaligned fixtures. Finally, consider upgrading to LED bulbs, which are more energy-efficient and can last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Fence Maintenance
Your fence provides privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal to your home’s exterior. Regular maintenance can help ensure that your fence is in good condition and reduce the risk of damage or deterioration. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and maintain your fence to ensure it’s in good working condition.
Start by inspecting your fence for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose boards, or broken components. Repair any damage using appropriate tools and materials, such as replacing any damaged boards or securing any loose posts. Clean your fence using a mild detergent and a soft brush or cloth, being careful not to damage any components. Consider applying a protective stain or sealant to help prevent damage from the elements and extend the life of your fence. Finally, consider landscaping around your fence, such as planting shrubs or flowers, to help protect it from the wind and other environmental factors.
Exterior Home Pest Control
Pests, such as rodents, insects, and termites, can cause damage to your home’s interior and exterior, as well as pose health risks to you and your family. Regular pest control can help prevent infestations and minimize damage to your home. Spring is an ideal time to inspect and control pests, as many insects and rodents become active during this time of year.
Start by inspecting your home’s exterior for any signs of pest activity, such as droppings or damage to your home’s foundation or siding. Seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior, such as around pipes, vents, or windows, using caulk or foam. Trim back any trees or bushes that are in contact with your home’s exterior, as these can provide a pathway for pests to enter your home. Consider using natural pest control methods, such as planting herbs or flowers that repel insects, or using essential oils. Finally, consider hiring a professional pest control company to inspect and treat your home, especially if you suspect an infestation.
Conclusion – Exterior Home Maintenance
Regular springtime exterior maintenance of your home is essential to keep it functioning at its best and ensure your safety. Neglecting any of the tasks outlined above can lead to costly repairs or pose risks to your safety. It’s important to make a plan for regular maintenance of your home’s exterior and stick to it.
If you’re unsure about any of the tasks outlined above or need assistance with any exterior home repairs, contact MaxHousePrice. We’re a team of experts in home maintenance and can help ensure your home remains in excellent condition. Or feel free to check out our article “Home Renovation Contractor Services in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC Metro Area – How to Find a Reliable Expert” to help you find the right expert for your project!
Don’t wait until it’s too late – invest in regular exterior maintenance today and enjoy a safe, comfortable, and functional home for years to come.