Spring Into Action: Exterior Home Maintenance Guide

Scan for damage

Walk around your home with binoculars or climb up safely to look for:

Missing or curling shingles: A sign they’re nearing the end of their lifespan.

Sagging or uneven areas: Could indicate trapped moisture or structural issues.

Leaks or water stains in the attic: A telltale sign your roof isn’t as watertight as it should be.

Clear off debris

Leaves and branches can trap moisture, leading to rot and mold. If you have overhanging trees, trimming them back will help prevent buildup.

Inspect the siding for damage

Look for cracks, warping, or peeling paint. Larger cracks can allow water to seep in, and bubbling or discolored siding indicates trapped moisture that could lead to rot.

Give the siding a good wash

Vinyl and brick benefit from power washing to remove dirt, mold, and mildew. Wood siding should be cleaned with a gentler approach— soft brushing and a mild detergent.

Check the foundation for cracks or shifts

Hairline cracks are common, but if you notice widening gaps or signs of settling (like doors not closing properly), consult a Pro.

Watch for pests

Look for mud tunnels (termites), sawdust-like debris (carpenter ants), or small holes (rodents). If you spot anything suspicious, call pest control.

Clean out debris

Grab a sturdy ladder, some gloves, and scoop out leaves, twigs, and gunk. A garden hose can flush out smaller debris.

Check for wear and tear

Sagging gutters mean they’re overloaded or poorly fastened— tighten brackets or replace sections as needed. Use gutter sealant for rust and holes, or replace beyond-repair metal sections entirely.

Consider installing guards

Gutter guards help block debris while letting water flow freely, reducing the need for frequent cleanings.

Inspect seals and caulking

Gaps around windows and doors let air and moisture in. Apply fresh weatherstripping or caulking where needed to keep things tight.

Clean glass, tracks, and screens

A little soap, water, and a squeegee go a long way. Remove and rinse screens to clear out dirt and pollen.

Check locks and hinges

Make sure everything opens and closes smoothly— sticking doors could mean shifting foundation or humidity issues.

Fill and seal cracks

Use concrete filler for small cracks. For asphalt driveways, 
a fresh seal coat every couple of years prevents water penetration and extends its life.

Power wash for a fresh look

Dirt, moss, and oil stains disappear fast with a good pressure washing.

Inspect for wear and tear

Check for loose boards, rusted nails, or rotting wood. If you see splintering or soft spots, replace damaged sections before they become safety hazards.

Restain or reseal wood surfaces

Wood decks need a fresh coat of stain or sealant every 2–3 years to stay weatherproof.

Trim trees and shrubs

Overgrown branches can scrape your siding or clog your gutters. Keep greenery at least a few feet away from your home.

Inspect for drainage issues

Pooling water near your foundation can lead to leaks— make sure the ground slopes away from your house.

Tighten loose hinges, replace broken boards

A wobbly fence won’t protect your yard (or your privacy). Reinforce weak sections now before summer storms test their strength.

Restain or repaint

A fresh coat prevents wood from rotting and keeps everything looking sharp.

Clear debris

Clean away leaves, dirt, and debris around your outdoor unit so airflow isn’t blocked.

Deep clean

Gently clean the coils and fins with a soft brush or vacuum to keep efficiency high.

Self inspection

Inspect your unit for rust or wear. If your unit looks worse for wear or makes strange noises, it might be time for a Pro inspection.

Sprinkler check

Test sprinklers and adjust their spray patterns to your preferences.

Efficiency check

Fix leaks and clogged nozzles to avoid wasting water or flooding your yard.

Check backflow preventers

Backflow preventers keep dirty water from contaminating your home’s water supply, so you’ll want to make sure yours is working properly

Bulb replacement

Replacing burnt-out bulbs

Deep clean

Cleaning your fixtures

Energy efficiency boost

Upgrading to LED bulbs for energy savings

Major roof or chimney problems 

A few missing shingles? You can likely handle it. A sagging roof or chimney cracks? Call a roofer before a small issue turns into a major (expensive) repair.

Structural issues

If your foundation has large cracks or you notice your home shifting (like doors and windows suddenly not closing right), don’t wait— foundation repairs only get pricier over time.

Electrical or plumbing complications

Small fixes, like sealing a drafty window or swapping out a light fixture, are fair game. But for anything involving your electrical panel, gas lines, or major plumbing, call a licensed professional.

Large-scale landscaping projects

Need a full drainage overhaul or major tree removal? A professional landscaper or arborist will save you time and potential damage to your property.

Pest infestations

A few ants? Grab some traps. Termites in the walls or rodents in your attic? Call an exterminator before they cause 
serious damage.