Top 5 Home Maintenance Tips for Spring in the Northeast

As winter loosens its grip, the snow has melted, and the rains have arrived; spring is the perfect time to give your home some well-deserved attention. Over our 33 years of inspections, we see daily the issues caused by deferred maintenance in homes; seasonal maintenance NOW can help prevent costly repairs later. It’s also why we developed our Home Maintenance Inspection Service to guide and assist homeowners throughout the lifetime of their homes.

Here are our top 5 spring maintenance tips for homeowners in the Northeast:

1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
   Harsh winters can do a number on your roof and gutters. Check for missing or damaged shingles and look for signs of water damage in the attic. Inspect all flashing at chimneys and roof penetrations and reseal any prior seals. Forgot to check your gutters last fall? Clean out your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage —clogs can lead to water backing up, causing moisture entry issues.

2. Check for Exterior Damage
   When the snow thawed last month, I found 2 siding shingles on the ground… Walk around your home and inspect the siding, foundation, and paint. Freeze-thaw cycles can cause cracks or gaps, especially around windows and doors. Seal any openings to improve energy efficiency and keep out pests. Focus on grading and drainage, and be sure all water is draining away from the building. And don’t forget to clear the basement window wells.
3. Service Your Cooling System
   Be the first in line before the warmer weather hits; contact your service company today to have your air conditioning system serviced. We find this is the most commonly forgotten major system for service. Don’t wait until you turn it on the first warm day and find a problem. Also, clean or replace filters and turn off your humidifier if you have one.
4. Check Your Basement and Crawl Spaces
   Spring is a common time for moisture buildup in basements and crawl spaces, especially with all the melting snow and spring rain. Look for signs of water intrusion, dampness, or mold. If you have a sump pump or drain system, confirm it works properly. Operate a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels in check; the ideal humidity is 45-55%. A dry basement helps protect your home’s structure—and your health.
5. Prep Your Lawn, Gardens, and Outdoor Spaces
   Rake up leftover leaves, dethatch the lawn, and apply spring fertilizer. This is also a great time to inspect your irrigation system for winter damage and check that outdoor hose faucets are functioning properly. Check patios, walkways, decks, and stairs for settlement and wear concerns.

Taking care of these simple tasks can help you enjoy a safe, comfortable, and worry-free spring and summer. A little maintenance goes a long way, especially in New England, where the seasons keep us on our toes! If you need assistance or have significant deferred maintenance, call Tiger. Our Home Maintenance Inspection is a great way to get started.