Warmer weather has finally arrived, and that means it’s time for annual spring maintenance. While most homeowners think about interior cleaning, gardening or sprucing up the outside to boost curb appeal, what else should they be prioritizing right now?
There are a handful of critical spring tasks to protect your home that only need to be performed once per year, but it’s very important they get done. Cold winter temperatures can cause home damage that needs repaired before the summer heat arrives. If left undone, small fixes now can turn into costly repairs later.
Here are four annual tasks all homeowners should perform this spring.
Foundation, driveways and walkways: Concrete and asphalt driveways and walkways are prone to damage from cold weather. Every spring, inspect these areas carefully for any cracks. If they’re minor, you can fix them yourself, but larger or deeper cracks might require a professional. Extreme seasonal temperatures, like a harsh winter, can also cause cracks in your foundation. Although they often don’t affect your home’s structural integrity, catching a crack now can prevent more serious issues in the future.
Inspect attic insulation, doors and windows: Did you know small air leaks from doors, windows or faulty insulation can quietly drain $400 from your energy bill each year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy? Especially before summer heat arrives, it’s important to seal gaps around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping to keep the A/C inside. Inspect your attic insulation also to be sure the entire ceiling area is covered and no air is escaping. Check the eaves to be sure insulation is not blocking vents, and make sure insulation isn’t touching the underside of roof sheathing either.
Make sure gutters, downspouts and dryer vents are connected, clear: Gutters and downspouts should be free of leaves, tree limbs and any other debris that can cause overflowing, especially after winter weather. Clear them thoroughly every spring and point downspouts away from the foundation. Exterior dryer vents should also be inspected, as lint build up can be a major fire hazard. Early detection all around is key to preventing more serious damage.
Inspect for termite damage: Each spring, conduct a termite inspection to look for any signs of damage. Search the sides of your home’s foundation walls for holes where termites tried to reach the wood above the foundation. If you suspect any termite damage, call a professional for an official inspection.
A little attention each year goes a long way toward protecting the long-term value of your home and helps prevent expensive repairs later. For more information or tips to maintain your home this spring, contact info@biastark.org.
Preston Roseman is the 2026 president of the Building Industry Association of Stark & East Central.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: 4 home projects to handle during spring
Reporting by Preston Roseman, Special to The Canton Repository / The Repository
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