For homeowners
Seasonal Home Maintenance
Michigan winters are hard on houses. Staying ahead of a handful of things each season is what keeps small problems from turning into the expensive kind.
March – May
Spring
- Walk the roof line from the ground and look for missing or lifted shingles after winter.
- Clear gutters and downspouts, and make sure water drains away from the foundation.
- Have the air conditioning serviced before the first hot week, when everyone else calls.
- Check the grading around the house and re-slope any spots where soil settled.
- Test the sump pump by pouring water into the pit — spring is when you find out it failed.
- Reseal the driveway and any exterior wood after the last hard freeze.
June – August
Summer
- Replace furnace and AC filters every one to three months.
- Wash windows and check caulk and weatherstripping.
- Trim branches back from the roof and siding.
- Inspect the deck for soft boards and loose railings.
- Have the septic tank inspected if you're on septic (typically every three to five years).
- Power wash siding and touch up exterior paint while it's dry.
September – November
Fall
- Have the furnace serviced before the first cold snap — this is the big one in Michigan.
- Clean gutters again after the leaves finish dropping.
- Shut off and drain outdoor spigots, and disconnect hoses so pipes don't burst.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries.
- Have the chimney inspected and swept if you burn wood.
- Winterize the sprinkler system and put away patio furniture.
December – February
Winter
- Keep the furnace exhaust and intake vents clear of snow and ice.
- Watch for ice dams at the roof edge — they usually mean an attic insulation or ventilation problem.
- Let faucets on exterior walls drip during a deep freeze.
- Keep the attic cold and well ventilated; a warm attic causes most winter roof problems.
- Check the water heater and look for corrosion or moisture at the base.
- Review your homeowners insurance and your property tax bill for the year.
Please read
A general guide for a typical Michigan home, not an inspection or a repair plan. Every house is different, and some of this work involves ladders, roofs, gas appliances, and electrical panels — hire a licensed professional rather than risking injury or damage. Following this list is no guarantee against problems, and it doesn't replace your manufacturer's instructions or your homeowners insurance requirements.
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