Spring is the transition season for your home; temperatures rise, snow and ice melt, and spring storms start testing everything winter quietly stressed.
A little preventative maintenance now can help avoid leaks, water damage, and emergency repairs later. This guide covers the key areas homeowners should check before the season fully changes.
1. Inspect The Exterior After Winter Wear
Winter takes a toll on the outside of your home—all that snow and ice can cause issues that you won't notice until everything is dry. Checking everything over outside is a good place to start, and it's as simple as taking a slow walk around the property, looking for:
- Cracked, loose, or peeling siding and trim
- Gaps around windows and doors
- Loose railings, steps, or porch boards
- New cracks in the foundation or masonry
Catching these early helps prevent moisture intrusion and further structural damage. Reach out your JFKLiving Team agent for handyman or contractor recommendations to get any issues sorted ASAP.
2. Clean Gutters, Check Drainage
Spring rain exposes poor drainage quickly. And it can do a lot of hidden damage that'll be costly if you find out too late. Make sure:
- Gutters are clear of leaves and debris
- Downspouts are securely attached and are still feeding far away from the property
- Water is directed away from the foundation
- Soil hasn’t eroded near the house
Proper drainage is one of the simplest ways to protect your foundation and basement from water issues. Luckily a lot of the issues mentioned above are simple DIY or handyman fixes.
3. Check The Roof From The Ground and Inside
Good news: you don’t need to climb on the roof to spot potential problems, so don't go buying a big ladder just yet. From the ground, look for:
- Missing, curling, or damaged shingles
- Uneven roof lines or visible wear
- Debris buildup in valleys
Your next port of call is inside the home and attic: check ceilings and walls for discoloration, stains, or signs of moisture.
4. Prepare For Spring Storms
Strong winds and heavy rain are common in early spring. Take time to:
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items
- Trim back tree branches near the house or roof
- Check fence stability and gates
- Ensure sump pumps are working properly if you have one
These steps reduce the risk of storm-related damage.
5. Service HVAC Systems Before Peak Use
Before switching fully to cooling mode:
- Replace HVAC filters
- Clear debris from outdoor condenser units
- Schedule a routine service if it hasn’t been checked recently
Preventative care helps systems run more efficiently and reduces the chance of breakdowns during the first heat wave.
6. Check Windows, Doors, and Seals
Spring is a good time to improve both comfort and efficiency. Be sure to inspect:
- Weatherstripping around doors
- Caulking around windows and exterior penetrations
- Screens for tears or gaps
Sealing small openings helps keep moisture, pests, and drafts out as temperatures rise.
7. Quick Interior Safety Scan
A short walkthrough your home can prevent bigger issues later. Be sure to check:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Under sinks and around toilets for slow leaks
- Caulking in kitchens and bathrooms
- Any signs of moisture near basement walls or floors
These quiet checks often catch problems before they escalate.
8. Tidy Outdoor Areas
Once the functional items are covered, this outdoor maintenance will set up up for spring:
- Clear debris from yards and drains
- Refresh mulch where needed
- Clean patios, walkways, and driveways
This helps water flow properly and keeps outdoor areas safe and usable as the weather improves. This is the time of year gardeners are out in force offering such services, so this is an easy task to outsource.
Why Spring Prep Matters
Spring maintenance isn’t about perfection; it’s about staying ahead of seasonal wear and weather patterns that can cause damage if ignored. A few intentional checks each year can:
- Reduce repair costs
- Extend the life of major systems
- Protect your home during heavy rain and wind
Small effort now often prevents big problems later. And if you need recommendations for a handyman service, contractor, gardener, or cleaner, be sure to reach out to The JFKLiving Team for advice.
