From scorching-hot summers to snowy winters, homes in Michigan go through a lot each year. Seasonal maintenance can help protect your house from these changes in temperature and weather, but it’s not always easy to keep the tasks straight. Our home maintenance checklist reminds you what to do in each season, so you can keep your home in great shape.
Why Does Maintenance Matter?
A house is a big, complicated system made up of thousands of parts. When one component is damaged, Michigan’s seasonal shifts can make a problem worse — and quickly. A loose shingle might not seem like a big deal, but in the winter, it can lead to leaks, water damage or even ice dams that affect the structure of your roof.
By running through a home upkeep checklist at the start of each season, you can catch and fix any minor issues before they turn into big problems that need costly repairs.
Michigan Home Maintenance Checklist: Season by Season
Because Michigan has four distinct seasons, home maintenance tasks tend to change throughout the year. Before winter sets in, you might focus on sealing air leaks and tuning up the heating system. In the summer, your AC system is a priority. Here’s what to tackle in each season.
Spring Home Maintenance Checklist
- Inspect and install window screens.
- Wash the exterior of windows.
- Rinse down siding.
- Pressure-wash and inspect walkways, driveways, patios and decks.
- Inspect the roof.
- Clean and inspect gutters and downspouts.
- Check for leaks in the basement, attic and plumbing lines.
- Deep-clean and air out the house.
- Cut back trees and bushes near the house.
- Remove debris from the yard.
- Replace air filters.
Summer Homeowners Maintenance Checklist
- Schedule air conditioner maintenance and tune-up.
- Check for air leaks around doors and windows.
- Inspect and test hoses and the sprinkler system.
- Clean your AC unit.
- Add mulch around plants.
- Set ceiling fans to run counterclockwise.
- Switch to summer thermostat programming.
- Clean dryer vent.
- Clean refrigerator coil.
- Replace air filters.
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
- Schedule a furnace inspection and fall heating tune-up.
- Remove window screens.
- Install storm windows.
- Inspect the roof.
- Check fire extinguishers and replace expired units.
- Cut back trees and bushes and remove dead branches.
- Clean gutters and downspouts.
- Disconnect hoses and cover exterior faucets.
- Inspect the fireplace or wood stove.
- Check insulation for damage.
- Replace air filters.
Winter House Maintenance Checklist
- Clean the gutters.
- Clean dryer vents.
- Inspect weatherstripping.
- Seal drafts around outlets, doors, windows and vents.
- Check that exposed pipes are insulated to prevent freezing.
- Test fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Replace batteries in the thermostat.
- Switch to winter thermostat programming.
- Set ceiling fans to run clockwise.
- Open and clean vents.
- Test the sump pump.
- Replace air filters.
Annual Home Maintenance Checklist
Some home maintenance tasks only need to be done once per year. Use this checklist to keep track of annual jobs:
- Seal wood decks and fences.
- Seal the driveway.
- Check for cracks and foundation damage.
- Drain and inspect the water heater.
- Schedule professional inspections for the roof, plumbing and septic systems.
- Inspect the attic and basement for pests.
- Lubricate hinges and garage door openers.
Michigan’s ever-changing weather can take a toll on your home, so proactive maintenance is essential. By spending time on upkeep each season, you can save money, prevent damage and help your home last longer.
