Home maintenance
Preventive care prevents costly repairs
A steady seasonal routine catches small wear before it becomes a leak, a draft, or a failed panel. Here is how to keep a home in good working order, and where routine care ends and a professional is needed.
Seasonal calendar
A year of preventive checks
Spread these routine tasks across the seasons so no area of the home goes unchecked for long.
Spring
Ventilation filters
Clean or replace range hood and exhaust filters, and check that vents are unobstructed.
Summer
Exterior seals
Inspect window and door weatherstripping for cracks, hardening, or gaps that let in air and moisture.
Autumn
Drainage points
Clear gutters, floor drains, and the channels around the home so water moves away from the foundation.
Inspection checklist
Safe checks versus professional work
Visual inspections, cleaning, and simple observation are reasonable for any resident. Signs of structural movement, persistent moisture behind walls, or any work inside an electrical panel call for a qualified professional. Keep a log of every repair and keep the manufacturer manuals in one place for future reference.
