Whether you’ve owned your home for a number of years or are in the beginning stages of financing a new one, there’s something all levels of homeowners have in common. You don’t have a landlord to perform seasonal maintenance to keep the exterior of your home in check. There are some basic tasks that must be performed in order to maintain and even increase your property value, and these seasonal tips can help you keep your house looking great and feeling like home year-round.
Seasonal Tasks: Winter
Winter is the time of year when most of us board up the house and limit the time spent outdoors. However, it’s important to take advantage of sunny days to get out there and complete various important tasks. Keep in mind that cold temperatures present certain dangers, and you should be aware of the temperatures and signs of conditions such as frostbite including stinging, burning and numbness. The important tasks you’ll want to be sure to complete during the winter months include:
- Complete check of the roof to ensure there aren’t missing shingles or damage that could allow melting ice and snow to infiltrate the home
- Consideration of the outdoor spigots including the removal and draining of hoses and turning off water connections to best ensure pipes don’t burst during below-freezing temperatures
- Thorough check of the foundation of your home for potential debris and cracks that could allow pests escaping cold temperatures from taking refuge in your home
Seasonal Tasks: Springtime
Spring is widely recognized as a time of renewal. As the leaves begin to bloom, your home is in need of attention. Some common tasks that should be addressed during this time include:
- Check the gutters for signs of loose granules that could indicate potential roofing issues after a long winter.
- Check the roof for any signs of damage. If your roof is flat and you feel confident in completing the repairs, this can save money. However, this can be a dangerous task, and it’s often best to leave it to the professionals.
- Scrape off any chipped or peeling paint around the home and spot paint these areas. It’s important to keep in mind that leaving wood exposed makes it susceptible to rot, so the peeled areas should be painted promptly.
Seasonal Task: Summer
As the temperatures begin to warm up, it creates a great time to get creative with your home as you can comfortably enjoy completing some of the following tasks:
- Give your porch floor a fresh coat of paint. This also allows you to remove the dirt left behind following rainy spring weather.
- Wash your windows.
- Add a layer of mulch to your yard. This can help keep weeds at bay and help allow the plants you do want in your yard to grow.
Season Task: Fall
Fall marks the beginning of a new school year and a decline in temperatures. It’s also your chance to take advantage of comfortable temperatures in which you can begin preparing for colder weather. Some tasks you’ll want to be sure to complete include:
- If you use a chimney, inspect it to ensure it’s free from any blockages.
- Apply caulk to cracks and around windows and door frames
- Rake the lawn to remove the fall leaves from the yard
Keeping Your House a Home
Your house is likely one of the largest financial investments you’ll ever make. Unlike your car, however, your house can be improved upon and even increased in value. However, when homeowners fail to perform regular, seasonal maintenance to the exterior of their home, it begins to become run-down.
Being a homeowner is a responsibility that must be taken seriously, and the process can be a fun and rewarding one when done right. Whatever the season, there are important tasks that need to be completed. By following these helpful tips, you can be on your way to maintaining your home in a way that will increase its aesthetic appeal and make it truly feel like home.
