Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist for New Builds
Maybe the best part about new homeownership is that everything is new and under warranty. Even new houses need a little maintenance, though, as seasons change and go by. By doing the mini maintenance tasks, though, you can keep your home comfortable and sidestep those potential issues down the road.
We've put together a simple seasonal checklist for new construction. You'll have easy tasks for every season, and a few location-specific reminders from Alberta, Ontario, Colorado, and Florida so that you know what’s most pressing for your area.
Fall Home Maintenance
With the cooler, shorter days, autumn is when we need to prepare for winter.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clean so that water runs away from the home.
• Secure weatherstripping around doors and windows to help fight drafts.
• Secure any loose door or window fasteners.
• Secure or store outdoor furniture.
• Pre-test your heating system before you require it.
Regional tips:
• Alberta & Colorado: The weather may become cold very quickly. Have your heating system inspected and be ready for snow.
• Ontario: Heavy fall rains occur regularly. Make sure that your grading runs off away from your building.
• Florida: The hurricane season lasts until fall. Secure outdoor items and check your storm protection.
Winter Home Maintenance
Winter is about keeping your home safe and warm.
• Monitor indoor humidity levels in order to minimize condensation on windows.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Clear snow and ice from around windows and outside vents.
• Reverse ceiling fans clockwise for deflecting warm air downstairs.
• Observe for accumulation of ice at rooftop.
Regional tips:
• Alberta, Ontario & Colorado: Keep an eye out for ice dams. You need good attic insulation and ventilation to help prevent them.
• Florida: You won't be digging out from a snow pile, but it's a smart time to inspect insulation and maintain your heating system.
Spring Home Maintenance
Spring is the time of the year to give everything a spring clean.
• Check your roof, siding, and foundation for damage.
• Wash windows and change or repair screens.
• Service your air conditioner prior to the commencement of summer.
• Check outdoor faucets and irrigation systems.
• Prepare and plant seeds for healthy grass growth.
Regional tips:
• Alberta & Ontario: Potholed or cratered driveways or sidewalks can occur from melted snow. Repair them early.
• Colorado: A strong spring runoff. Make sure that water runs away from the foundation.
• Florida: Humidity kicks in during summer months. Keep A/C well-maintained and check landscaping for effective drainage.
Summer Home Maintenance
You enjoy your home in the summer, but it’s also the season for maintaining the outside.
• Wash and re-seal decks or fences when needed.
• Clean and repair screens.
• Trim trees and shrubbery so that they aren't overtopping siding or the roof.
• Examine paint on exterior and repair as necessary.
• Track energy usage and fine-tune how you use the thermostat to stay efficient.
Regional tips:
• Alberta & Ontario: It's pleasant weather for exterior painting or staining tasks.
• Colorado: Summer storms can be tough on shingles. Inspect your roof after strong weather.
• Florida: Hurricane and warm-weather season demand special preparation. Clean gutters and secure outdoor items.
Why Maintenance Matters
A new home feels great, but a little seasonal maintenance makes a big difference. Seasonal maintenance protects your investment, makes your home energy efficient, and avoids more serious problems in the long run. Breaking it down into seasonal tasks makes it easier to manage and keeps your home at its best year round.
Final Tips
Set reminders for yourself on your phone or keep this checklist handy somewhere you see it often like your fridge. Season-by-season house maintenance is simple and worthwhile.
If you are looking for a new build, come and see us at one of our Alberta, Ontario, Colorado, or Florida communities. You can also see available move-in quick possession homes.