Seasonal Home Maintenance
Essential maintenance checklists to protect your Minnesota or Wisconsin home throughout the year
Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and extends the life of your home. Minnesota and Wisconsin's extreme weather demands year-round attention. Use these seasonal checklists to stay on top of essential home care tasks.
Spring Maintenance
March - May: Recovery from winter and preparation for warmer months
Exterior
- Inspect roof for winter damage
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Check foundation for cracks
- Inspect and repair siding
- Power wash and seal deck
HVAC & Systems
- Replace furnace filter
- Schedule AC tune-up
- Test sump pump
- Clean exhaust fans
- Test smoke detectors
Summer Maintenance
June - August: Peak season for exterior projects and preventive care
Exterior
- Inspect and clean the deck or patio
- Touch up exterior paint on bare spots
- Reseal driveway cracks before fall
- Wash windows and repair screens
- Trim trees and shrubs away from the house
HVAC & Systems
- Clean the AC condenser coils
- Replace furnace filter
- Check attic ventilation and insulation
- Test the sump pump before summer storms
- Flush the water heater
Fall Maintenance
September - November: Preparation for winter and freeze protection
Exterior
- Clean gutters after the leaves drop
- Inspect the roof and flashing before snow
- Drain and store garden hoses
- Seal gaps around windows and doors
- Rake leaves and winterize the lawn
HVAC & Systems
- Schedule a furnace tune-up
- Replace furnace filter
- Reverse ceiling fans to clockwise
- Test the sump pump and battery backup
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Winter Maintenance
December - February: Cold weather monitoring and safety
Interior & Safety
- Watch the roof for ice dams
- Keep the furnace filter clean
- Watch for frozen pipe warning signs
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Keep exhaust vents clear of snow
Exterior
- Remove snow from the roof after heavy storms
- Keep walkways and steps clear of ice
- Check the attic for frost or moisture
- Clear snow from the furnace intake and exhaust
- Monitor for icicles and ice buildup