Home Maintenance Tips
Homeownership in Kentucky means enjoying four distinct seasons and each one brings its own maintenance needs. Tending to your house throughout the year not only keeps it comfortable and safe, but it also preserves value and prevents costly repairs. Below are practical, season by season maintenance tips tailored to Kentucky’s climate, from early spring floods to winter freezes.
Spring: Repair, Inspect, Refresh
Inspect the roof and gutters. After winter storms, check for loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing, and clogged gutters. Clear debris and ensure downspouts divert water at least 3–6 feet away from the foundation.
Check for spring thaw moisture. Look for damp basements or crawlspaces and inspect grading around the house. Add soil where needed so landscaping slopes away from the foundation.
Service exterior systems. Have your HVAC contractor perform a spring tune-up on the air conditioning system. Replace filters and clean condensate drains.
Clean and seal decks. Remove winter grime, check for loose boards or railings, and apply stain or sealant where needed to protect against summer humidity and UV exposure.
Inspect windows and doors. Look for cracked caulking and weatherstripping. Reseal or replace weatherstripping to keep pollen, drafts, and bugs out.
Test sump pump. Spring rains can be heavy; test the sump pump and consider a battery backup if you don’t already have one.
Landscape cleanup. Remove debris, prune dead or damaged limbs, and mulch beds to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Summer: Stay Cool and Prevent Storm Damage
Maintain HVAC. Replace air filters monthly during heavy use, and keep the outdoor unit free of vegetation and debris for proper airflow.
Check attic ventilation and insulation. Hot Kentucky summers can overheat attics, shortening shingle life and straining AC systems. Make sure vents are clear and insulation levels are adequate.
Inspect for pests. Wasps, ants, and rodents seek shelter as the weather changes; seal gaps around pipes and vents and trim vegetation away from the house.
Test and maintain irrigation. Adjust sprinklers for seasonal needs to avoid overwatering and prevent foundation issues.
Monitor exterior paint and siding. Intense sun and summer storms can reveal or accelerate wear. Touch up paint, repair siding, and caulk gaps.
Prepare for storms. Secure outdoor furniture and inspect storm doors and shutters. Keep a basic emergency kit and know where water shutoffs are located.
Fall: Seal, Clean, and Prepare for Cold
Clean gutters and downspouts. Remove leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and foundation issues when heavy rains and early freezes come.
Service heating systems. Have your furnace or heat pump inspected and cleaned. Replace filters and test carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms.
Insulate pipes and outdoor faucets. Protect exterior spigots and exposed pipes with insulation or covers to prevent freezing and bursts.
Check the chimney and fireplace. Sweep the chimney and inspect flues; have repairs made before heavy use. Keep vents and flue dampers functioning properly.
Inspect windows and doors for drafts. Caulk and weatherstrip as needed to save on heating bills.
Clean and store seasonal equipment. Drain fuel from lawn mowers, blow out irrigation lines, and store gas-powered tools in a safe, dry place.
Trim trees and limbs. Remove branches that overhang the roof or are too close to power lines.
Winter: Protect Against Freeze and Storms
Monitor for ice dams. Ensure attic insulation and ventilation are adequate to reduce heat loss that causes roof snowmelt and refreezing at edges. Use roof rakes to remove excess snow safely.
Keep a safe heating environment. Maintain clearances around space heaters, never use ovens to heat your home, and keep chimneys and vents free of obstructions.
Check for frozen pipes. If temperatures plummet, let cabinets drip and open doors to allow warm air to circulate around susceptible plumbing. Know how to shut off the main water valve in an emergency.
Inspect basement and crawlspaces. Look for signs of water intrusion or condensation. Consider a dehumidifier to control moisture and prevent mold.
Maintain walkways and entryways. Keep salt or sand on hand for icy steps and driveways; remove snow promptly to prevent slips and minimize ice buildup near foundation seams.
Test backup systems. If you have a generator, test it periodically and keep fuel stored safely. Check battery backups for sump pumps and emergency lighting.
Check attic and roof for pests. Mice and small animals look for warmth in winter — seal small entry points.
Scheduling an annual maintenance inspection with Sanders Home Inspection protects your investment, prevents costly repairs, and ensures a safer, healthier home. Our team combines years of homebuilding experience with licensed, insured expertise in water testing, mold and indoor air quality, and HUD certifications giving you comprehensive, reliable results. As a family‑owned, locally operated company serving eastern and central Kentucky, we provide thorough, transparent reports and practical recommendations tailored to your property. Keep your home running efficiently and avoid surprises. book your annual inspection with Sanders Home Inspection.
