Spring into Action: Your Essential Guide to Spring Home Maintenance

As spring begins to unfold and the chill of winter fades away, it’s time to embrace the season of renewal by giving your home some attention. Spring isn’t just about blooming flowers and warmer weather. It’s the perfect time to tackle essential home maintenance tasks. From ensuring your property retains its value to enhancing its curb appeal, a little proactive care can go a long way. Let’s delve into why preventative maintenance matters. We will share essential checklists to help with your seasonal maintenance, too!

Why preventative maintenance matters

Preventative maintenance isn’t just about fixing problems when they arise; it’s about preventing them from occurring in the first place.

By scheduling regular, seasonal maintenance, you not only save yourself from potential headaches and costly repairs down the line but also extend the lifespan of your home's systems and components. Spring is an ideal time to inspect your property, identify areas that need attention, and address them promptly.

If your maintenance check exposes a bigger issue, call Habitat! Our RePair program offers affordable, flexible handyperson services for any homeowner in our service region.

Home maintenance checklists

EXTERIOR

• Check all weather stripping and caulking around windows and doors, especially if you have air-conditioning.
• Check house for cracked and peeled paint. Caulk and repaint as necessary.
• Remove, clean, and store storm windows (if removable).
• Remove debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent clogging and water damage.
• Check all door and window screens. Patch or replace as needed; put screens up (if removable type).
• Check for cracks or surface deterioration if you have a concrete or block foundation. Consult a professional if you have any leaking or severe cracking.
• Inspect roof for missing or deteriorated shingles.
• Clean exterior and garage doors; refinish when necessary.

Need help with yard clean-up? Sign up for Neighbors Day, hosted the last Saturday in April. 

INTERIOR

• Replace filters on air conditioners.
• Check and clean dryer vent, stove hood, and room fans. Change or clean filters on furnace.
• Check seals on refrigerator and freezer. Clean refrigerator coils.
• Clean fireplace; leave damper open for improved ventilation if home is not air-conditioned.
• Check basement wall and floors for dampness; if too moist, remedy as appropriate.
• Clean dehumidifier according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Check for leaky faucet; replace washers as necessary.
• Check attic for proper ventilation; open vents.
• Clean drapes and blinds; repair as needed.
• Test and check batteries on smoke and CO detectors.

TOOLS + MATERIALS

Need access to tools? Learn about the La Crosse Tool Library!

The La Crosse Public Library Tool Library provides access to circulating tools, home maintenance materials and so much more.  Established with funding from a 2022 AARP Community Challenge Grant, the goal of the Tool Library is to help the community reduce cost-related barriers to home improvement, while also encouraging the exploration of new DIY skills and hobbies.

• adjustable wrench
• slip-joint pliers
• utility knife
• regular screwdriver
• phillips head screwdriver
• drain auger (plumber's snake)
• flashlight
• shop-grade vacuum cleaner
• power washer/sprayer
• buckets & heavy-duty sponges
• tri-sodium phosphate (TSP)
• caulk gun & caulk
• 6' step ladder & extension ladder
• work gloves & rubber gloves

Many factors affect the value of your home, and proactive maintenance plays a big role. Neglecting maintenance can lead to depreciation and detract from your property’s appeal.

Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your home with proactive maintenance and strategic improvements. By investing time and effort now, you can enjoy a more comfortable and efficient living environment for years to come. So, grab your checklist, roll up your sleeves, and let’s spring into action!