13 spring home maintenance tips for homeowners | real estate

I’ve never seen the snow melt so fast in the Lakes Region. As warmer weather arrives, spring is the perfect time to inspect your home and address any maintenance issues winter may have left behind. A thorough spring maintenance routine can help prevent costly repairs and maintain your property. 

Exterior maintenance

1. Check gutters

Winters can leave gutters clogged with debris from snow, ice, and fallen leaves and branches. Clear out any accumulation and check for cracks or loose sections, which can cause rot and water damage over time. Ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation to prevent basement flooding.

2. Inspect the roof and driveway

Heavy snow, ice dams, and fluctuating temperatures can weaken your roof. Inspect shingles for cracks, curling, or missing pieces. If you notice any damage, schedule repairs promptly to avoid leaks during spring rainstorms. Spring is the time to fill in asphalt cracks and install asphalt sealer on your driveway if needed. 

3. Seal windows and doors

Check the seals around windows and doors for cracks or gaps. Proper sealing improves energy efficiency and prevents water intrusion from spring showers and winter melt. Repair any damaged screens on doors, windows, and basement windows to stop insect infiltration. 

4. Lawn maintenance 

Tree branches weighed down by snow and ice may have weakened over the winter. Trim any limbs that hang too close to your home (at least 5-7 feet away) to reduce the risk of damage caused by falling branches and to prevent pests from gaining easy access to your house. Spring is a great time to dethatch your lawns or consider aerating the lawn to decompact the soil, reseed, and fertilize. 

5. Clear around your AC unit

Remove any leaves, twigs, or other debris around the outdoor compressor unit if you have central air conditioning. This allows proper airflow and improves efficiency when you start using the AC.

Interior maintenance

6. Deep clean the home

Spring is the perfect time for a deep cleaning. Dust, vacuum, and sanitize commonly used areas. Wash windows, baseboards, and light fixtures to freshen up your space.

7. Replace air filters

Pollen season can trigger allergies, so HVAC air filters should be replaced to maintain indoor air quality. Clean filters also help your cooling system run more efficiently.

8. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Cold-weather heating systems and fireplaces can lead to CO buildup. Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors function correctly by testing them and replacing batteries if needed. Also, check gas connections, venting, and monitor soot buildup in your fireplaces and chimneys. 

9. Clean the dryer vent

Lint buildup in dryer vents is a leading cause of house fires. Check the vent and remove any lint accumulation to improve your dryer’s efficiency and reduce fire hazards.

10. Check the washing machine 

Over the years, I’ve seen water damage because of hose failure and ice machine breaks on refrigerators from bad connections. 

HVAC, plumbing and sprinklers

11. Schedule an HVAC tune-up

If you use air conditioning during the summer, have your HVAC system serviced before peak season. A professional inspection will ensure your system runs efficiently and help prevent breakdowns during hot days.

12. Check the sprinkler system

Test sprinklers to ensure they are working correctly. Look for leaks, clogged heads, or misaligned spray patterns that could waste water or damage your lawn. 

13. Inspect the plumbing

Winter’s cold temperatures can cause pipes to expand and contract, potentially leading to leaks. Checking under sinks, around toilets, and in your basement for any signs of water damage or dripping pipes and addressing any issue quickly can help you avoid costly repairs.

Spring maintenance is critical for preserving the value and integrity of your home. Addressing these tasks will ensure your home remains safe, efficient, and comfortable going into the summer months. Whether you own a lakeside retreat, a primary residential home, or a vacation/investment property, staying on top of spring maintenance can save you time and money in the long run.

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This article was written by Frank Roche, president of Roche Realty Group with offices in Meredith and Laconia, and can be reached at 603-279-7046. Visit rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.