Spring is in the air – a time when Canadians look forward to warmer weather, more daylight, and the welcome disappearance of snow and ice.
But the change in seasons isn’t just something that happens in nature. It’s a cue for homeowners to refresh and maintain their homes. After months of harsh winter conditions, a little attention now can get your home ready for the season ahead.
The checklist below covers some important spring home maintenance tips to help you tackle essential tasks and keep everything running smoothly.
Inspect the roof and gutters![]() |
Inspect the roof and guttersThe winter can be particularly hard on your roof, so the spring is a good time to check it for missing or damaged shingles. Depending on the size and style of your home, you may be able to check it yourself or will need to hire a roofer to do a full inspection. While you (or your roofer) are up there, it’s worth clearing out debris from gutters – they can accumulate leaves and branches over the fall and winter, which can prevent rainwater from flowing freely through them. Also check that your downspouts are directing water away from your home's foundation to help avoid water-related issues during heavy rains. |
Check your HVAC system![]() |
Check your HVAC systemBefore the summer heat arrives, schedule a tune-up of your air conditioning. You want to be aware of any issues well in advance so it’s running efficiently when you need it most. |
Examine your windows and doors![]() |
Examine your windows and doorsLook for cracks, gaps, or worn-out weather stripping. Re-sealing now can help keep pests out and your home energy efficient. |
Inspect your home’s exterior![]() |
Inspect your home’s exteriorNo matter if your home’s exterior is siding, brick, or wood, inspect it for signs of wear and note any areas that need attention. A fresh coat of paint or repairing cracked mortar can help restore its look and protect it for the seasons ahead. Check your foundation as well – freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can cause the ground around your home to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks or shifts. Checking your foundation in the spring – and fixing issues early – can prevent water and structural damage, as well as safeguard your home from pests. |
Spruce up your lawn![]() |
Spruce up your lawnIf you have a garden, after the snow melts, you can get a good assessment of the state of your lawn. Chances are, there will be debris, dead grass, and some patchy areas. Reseeding bare spots, trimming overgrown shrubs, and giving your yard a good raking will help bring the outside back to life and get it ready for growth. |
Test outdoor plumbing and sprinklers![]() |
Test outdoor plumbing and sprinklersIf you have a sprinkler system, check it for leaks or blockages, or get a professional in to service it before the season. Check your outdoor taps too, to make sure they’re working properly. |
Clean the deck and patio![]() |
Clean the deck and patioWhether you have a wooden deck, a stone patio, or a composite outdoor living surface, the spring is a great time to scrub away the effects of the winter. Sweep, wash and reseal as needed – before you put your patio furniture on it. |
Check your safety devices![]() |
Check your safety devicesThe changing of the season is a perfect opportunity to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. It’s a good practice to replace the batteries twice a year. |
While spring home maintenance might take a bit of work, it doesn’t have to be expensive – and in fact, taking the time to care for your home now can help prevent costly repairs down the road. See How to Create a Home Maintenance Budget for some tips on preparing financially for expected and unexpected expenses.
As you shake off the effects of winter, this spring home maintenance checklist can help you stay ahead of repairs, protect your investment, and keep your home looking its best for the months ahead.