All homeowners know that a home is a lifelong investment, and it constantly needs maintenance done in order to prevent running into bigger problems later down the line. If you don’t know when or how to start tackling your seasonal maintenance, we created this checklist to help you get more organized and included some tips to help you handle all the tasks professionally.
Monthly maintenance:
Splitting up your work into monthly tasks can make the job of maintenance a lot less overwhelming. Here are some things to do on a monthly basis:
Test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries
It’s recommended to change the batteries in these devices at least once a year. While you won’t need to replace these as frequently, it’s still a good idea to stay on top of things and be proactive.
Inspect electrical cords
Damaged cables are a fire hazard and unsafe. Check for any exposed or twisted wires and replace them accordingly.
Inspect tub and sink drains
Dirt can build up quickly in the drains. If you’re not cleaning these regularly, it may cause the water to not drain properly and create a big mess. This task will take you only 15 to 20 minutes, and it will save you time in the long run.
Replace filters
Your ventilation, heating, and air conditioning all have filters in them. Frequent filter changes can extend the lifespan of your devices and reduce the strain on them.
Seasonal maintenance:
To keep your home in its best shape, there are some things that you may need to do only once or twice a year. Here’s our list of things to do and what the best season is for them.
Spring
Get a HVAC inspection
An HVAC inspection is due in the spring. Get a professional to check out all things related to the heating and cooling system of your home and change the filter if needed.
Deep clean your home
When the weather begins to improve, it’s a good idea to deep clean the interior of your home so you can enjoy a clean house and beautiful weather.
Inspect the gutters
Make sure that the gutters are free from any cracks or holes in the lining. All gutters should slope downward and divert the water away from your home.
Summer:
Revisit your paint job. Summer is the perfect season to refresh your home with a layer of paint. The summer weather allows the paint to dry quickly. If you’re located in Canada, check out this company for interior painting in Calgary that can assist you with all your painting projects.
Do a roof inspection
Look for any signs of visible damage, like holes. If you find any, inspect to see if the cause is water damage, insects, or something else.
Check the pipes and plumbing.
While puddles are a clear indicator of a plumbing issue, there still may be some less visible damage that can cause significant harm. Check for any damage on the pipes at least once a year.
Fall:
Clean your chimney
Cleaning out your chimney is a must-do before the heating season starts. It’s recommended to get professional help to ensure everything is done thoroughly before winter
Inspect your heating system
Do an inspection of your heating system before the cold months come. You want to ensure it’s properly functioning and safe to use. If possible, have a professional HVAC inspection performed.
Winter:
Review the home exterior
Harsh conditions during the winter can cause big damage to the exterior of the house. Checking for roof damage and damaged exteriors is important for identifying problems earlier.
Check the ventilation
To maintain good ventilation and prevent drafts that cause energy waste, check the performance of your vents and fans.
