Spring Home Maintenance Tips from a Home Inspector
As a professional home inspector, I get a front-row seat to what happens when small maintenance tasks are neglected over time. Spring is the perfect season to give your home the attention it deserves, especially after the wear and tear of winter. With a little effort now, you can prevent costly repairs down the road and keep your home in tip-top shape. Here are the key areas I recommend focusing on every spring.
1. Roof and Gutters: Your First Line of Defense
Winter can be tough on roofing materials. Ice dams, heavy snow, and wind can cause damage that often goes unnoticed until water finds its way inside. In the spring:
- Inspect your roof (or hire a pro) for missing shingles, cracked flashing, or signs of wear.
- Clean your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow and damage to your foundation or siding.
- Ensure downspouts direct water away from your home by at least 3-4 feet.
2. Check for Water Intrusion Around the Foundation
Once the snow melts, it’s common to discover water pooling near your foundation, especially if the grading isn’t ideal.
- Walk around your home’s perimeter after a heavy rain. Look for soft spots, puddles, or soil erosion.
- Seal cracks in the foundation or exterior walls with an appropriate sealant.
- Consider improving grading or adding extensions to downspouts if water isn’t draining properly.
3. HVAC: Prep for Cooling Season
Your heating system worked hard over the winter. Now it’s time to get your air conditioning ready to go.
- Replace HVAC filters—this is the easiest and most often overlooked task.
- Clean the outdoor A/C unit. Remove any leaves, dirt, or debris.
- Schedule a professional tune-up. A trained tech can catch issues before you’re left without cooling on the hottest day of the year.
4. Inspect Windows, Doors, and Screens
Temperature swings can cause seals and caulking to crack.
- Check caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors. Re-seal any gaps to improve energy efficiency.
- Inspect window screens for tears or sagging. Spring is the season to let fresh air in—without the bugs.
5. Test Safety Devices
Your home’s safety systems need regular attention, too.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if needed.
- Inspect fire extinguishers to ensure they’re in working order and easily accessible.
- Check the garage door auto-reverse function. Place a piece of wood under the door—if it doesn’t reverse, it needs service.
6. Exterior Maintenance and Landscaping
This is where function meets curb appeal.
- Power wash siding, decks, and patios. Mold and mildew can build up during wet months.
- Check for peeling paint or damaged siding. Catching it early prevents wood rot and water intrusion.
- Trim vegetation away from the home. Keep at least 12 inches between plants and siding to discourage pests and moisture.
7. Plumbing and Water Fixtures
Cold temps can be rough on plumbing—especially anything exposed.
- Inspect hose bibs and outdoor faucets for leaks or cracks. If a pipe freezes over winter, you may not notice until you turn the water on.
- Check under sinks for signs of slow leaks or water stains.
Final Thoughts
Spring is nature’s way of starting fresh, and your home deserves the same opportunity. A little maintenance now can prevent big headaches later. As a home inspector, I can tell you that most major issues I encounter could have been avoided with regular seasonal upkeep.
If you’re unsure about what to look for or spot something concerning, don’t hesitate to bring in a professional. Peace of mind is always worth the investment.
Here’s to a safe, efficient, and beautiful home this spring!
— Ryan, East Fork Home Inspections