Preventive maintenance is the most cost-effective thing you can do for your home. The repairs that cost thousands of dollars almost always start as small problems that were ignored for too long.
Spring: Check the exterior for winter damage. Look at the roof for missing shingles, inspect siding and trim for cracks, clean gutters, and test exterior faucets. Inside, check for any signs of water intrusion in the basement or around windows.
Summer: Focus on cooling efficiency and outdoor spaces. Service the HVAC system, clean dryer vents, check deck and fence condition, and touch up exterior paint where needed. This is also the best time for exterior painting projects.
Fall: Prepare for winter. Clean gutters again, inspect and seal windows and doors, check weather stripping, service the heating system, and insulate any exposed pipes. Drain and winterize exterior faucets.
Winter: Focus on interior projects. This is ideal timing for painting, drywall repairs, carpentry projects, and flooring installation. Address that punch list of small repairs you've been putting off.
Kevin Scofield helps DC Metro homeowners stay on top of maintenance with efficient, project-rate repairs — from seasonal tune-ups to tackling your full to-do list in a single visit.