Exterior Maintenance Checklist For Your Home by Chafin Communities

As the temperatures warm up and the outdoor activities kick in, it’s time to turn your attention to the exterior maintenance of your home. Spring is the perfect season to give your home a little TLC and ensure it is ready for the months ahead. Here is a comprehensive checklist to guide you through your home maintenance routine this spring:

Inspect the Roof

This is a job that requires a ladder and some bravery. Check for any missing or damaged shingles, and inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Address any issues to prevent leaks and water damage.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Remove debris such as leaves, twigs, and sediment from gutters and downspouts. Go ahead and replace any gutters that are beyond fixing, or caulk any newfound holes. Also, ensure the downspouts are securely attached and properly directing water away from your home’s foundation for the best drainage. 

Inspect Siding and Exterior Paint

You probably look at your house every day, but the details can easily go unnoticed. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, peeling paint, or insect infestations. Repair or repaint as needed to protect your home from the elements and keep your home looking sharp. 

Check Windows and Doors

Inspect window and door seals for any cracks or gaps that could let in drafts or pests. Replace weather-stripping or caulking as necessary to improve energy efficiency. This is also a good time to wash the outside of your windows. 

Clean and Repair the Deck or Patio

A revitalized deck/patio sounds like a great place to relax and soak in the warm weather. To accomplish this, sweep away debris and dirt from your deck or patio, and inspect for any signs of damage or rot. Clean with a pressure washer if needed, and reseal or repaint for protection against moisture and UV rays.

Replace and Clean Outdoor Lighting

Test outdoor light fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Unfortunately, lights attract bugs, so it is not uncommon to find spider webs built up on outdoor lighting fixtures. While you are looking at them, clean fixtures and lenses to ensure optimal illumination and safety around your home.

Trim Trees and Shrubs

Prune overgrown branches and trim back bushes to maintain a neat appearance and prevent damage to your home’s exterior. Remove any dead or diseased vegetation as well. Paying special attention to detail could earn you the title of having the best yard in the neighborhood. 

Check Outdoor Faucets

Test your faucet system to ensure it’s functioning properly by watching the water flow. Look for leaks or damaged pipes, and repair as necessary. It is a good idea to repair or replace any faulty components to prevent water waste and potential water damage. Just a warning, this may turn into a job that requires some reinforcement. 

Revitalize Outdoor Furniture and Equipment

With spring and summer months, come outdoor cookouts and festivities. Now is the time to clean and inspect outdoor furniture, grills, and other equipment for signs of wear and tear. Make any necessary repairs or replacements to ensure they’re ready for use, and you can grill out all summer long.

Examine Driveway and Walkways

Cracks can form for many different reasons, and although they may become familiar enough to ignore, consider sealing or resealing to prolong the lifespan of your concrete. Thin cracks up to ¼ inch wide can be filled with concrete crack fillers as a beginner-level DIY project. You may use a concrete backer rod for larger cracks, but it is recommended to get professional help once they reach ½ inch wide. Repairing any cracks in your driveway and walkways can prevent further deterioration, and a bigger problem down the road. 

Check A/C

The A/C is the last thing you want to break as we enter the warmer months of the year. You could benefit from a visit from a qualified professional to ensure that it is fine-tuned for peak performance. This will not only save you from breaking a sweat, but also maintain the health of your air conditioning unit.

Power wash/Pressure Wash Your Siding 

Sometimes a home needs a quick shower just like the rest of us. Choose a gentle power washer with the appropriate strength based on the material of your home, so you are not causing any damage. Also, be sure to wear proper safety gear and follow safety precautions. Once you are ready to go, begin washing your home from bottom to top. After all is said and done, your home will be sparkly and clean and you can check this off your exterior maintenance checklist.

By following this spring exterior maintenance checklist, you can keep your home in top condition and ensure it’s ready to withstand the merriments of the season ahead. Investing a little time and effort now can save you headaches and expenses later on, allowing you to enjoy your home to the fullest year-round.