A little regular maintenance can prevent expensive repairs and keep your house in great shape. Living on California’s Central Coast means mild weather, but the salty air, moisture, and occasional storms can still cause wear and tear. By following a simple seasonal home maintenance schedule, you can stay ahead of issues and keep your home comfortable all year long.
Spring Home Maintenance: Time for a Fresh Start
Spring is the perfect time to give your home a little extra attention after the wetter months. Start by checking your roof for any damage, like missing shingles or leaks. Clean out your gutters so they can handle spring showers, and take a walk around the house to see if the paint or siding needs a touch-up. Coastal air can be rough on exteriors, so a little maintenance now can prevent bigger problems later.
Inside, look for any signs of moisture issues, especially around windows, sinks, and bathrooms. If you spot any mold or damp areas, take care of them right away to avoid damage. Also, clean or replace your air filters and make sure your air conditioning system is ready to go before the summer heat arrives.
Summer: Stay Cool and Keep Up the Yard
As temperatures rise, it’s a great time to focus on energy efficiency and outdoor spaces. Check your windows and doors for gaps where cool air might be escaping, and seal them up to keep your home comfortable. Clean your ceiling fans and set them to spin counterclockwise to push cool air down.
Your yard needs some love, too. Trim trees and bushes away from your house to keep pests out and improve airflow. Check your irrigation system for leaks and adjust watering times to fit local restrictions. If you have a deck or patio, give it a good wash and apply a fresh coat of sealant to protect it from the sun.
Fall Home Maintenance: Get Ready for Cooler Weather
As summer fades, it’s time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. Start with your heating system—replace the filters and test it to make sure it’s working properly. If you have a fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning to prevent fire hazards.
Walk around your home and look for any gaps around doors and windows. Sealing these up now will help keep the warmth in and your energy bills down. Take another look at your roof and gutters, especially after the first rain, to make sure everything is draining properly. If you have outdoor furniture, cover or store it so it stays in good shape for next season.
Winter: Stay Warm and Dry
Winters on the Central Coast usually aren’t too harsh, but they do bring rain and occasional storms. Make sure your home’s drainage system is working properly so water flows away from the foundation. Keep gutters clear and check that downspouts direct water away from the house.
Inside, watch for moisture buildup. If you notice condensation on windows or damp spots on walls, use a dehumidifier or improve ventilation to prevent mold. If you use a fireplace or space heater, follow safety precautions and never leave them unattended.
Sticking to this simple home maintenance schedule will help keep your Central Coast home in great shape. A little effort throughout the year goes a long way in avoiding costly repairs and making your house a more comfortable place to live.
Dean Home Inspection Services offers professional home inspections in California’s Central Coast. Contact us to schedule an inspection today.