Seasonal Maintenance

Fall Maintenance Checklist
In many regions, fall is the perfect season to tackle important home improvement projects because the weather is generally dry and temperatures are moderate. Before you start your seasonal home improvement tasks, examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Most of these home maintenance items can be accomplished without the help of a professional, but it's always better to be safe and call for assistance if a home improvement project is beyond your abilities. Here are our seasonal home improvement recommendations for fall and spring:

- Rake leaves and aerate the lawn.
- Have forced-air heating system inspected by a professional. Tip: schedule an inspection in late summer or early fall before the heating season begins.
- Check fireplace for damage or hazards.
- Seal cracks and gaps in windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping; replace if necessary.
- Swap old, drafty windows for more energy-efficient models.
- Touch up exterior siding and trim with paint.
- Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.
- Power-wash windows and siding.
- Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Mend cracks and gaps in the driveway and walkway.
- Drain and winterize exterior plumbing.
- Have fireplace professionally inspected.
- Tune up major home appliances before the holidays.
- Repair or replace siding.
- Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Install a smoke detector on every floor of your home, including the basement.
- Clean the carpets.
- Clean window and door screens.
- Vacuum lint from dryer vent.
- Inspect exterior door hardware; fix squeaky handles and loose locks.
- Check for frayed cords and wires.

Spring Maintenance Checklist
- Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.
- Change the air-conditioner filter.
- Clean window and door screens.
- Polish wood furniture, and dust light fixtures.
- Refinish the deck.
- Power-wash windows and siding.
- Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Have a professional inspect and pump the septic tank.
- Inspect sink, shower, and bath caulking for deterioration.
- Vacuum lint from dryer vent.