Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist

October 24th, 2019

Buying a new home is nothing less than exciting – from anxiously awaiting move-in day, to deciding where furniture and utensils will go, there’s a lot to look forward to. Regular maintenance might not be at the top of your list, but it’s an important part of homeownership. Less maintenance is just one of the reasons why you might want to go with a new construction home, or even a townhome, over an older, preexisting home. The new homes and townhomes at Shearwater require less care than you might think. Here’s a handy guide of maintenance tasks your new home will need that will help keep it in as great of shape as the day you first moved in.

Spring Maintenance

  • Wash windows and siding to prevent buildup and keep your home looking fresh.
  • Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages and drainage issues.
  • Inspect the roof, chimney, driveway, sprinkler systems, and screen doors and windows for any loose shingles or damage.
  • Have a professional inspect your air conditioning unit annually to keep it in good condition. Inspect the pipe insulation and change the air filter as well to ensure it runs smoothly amidst the summer heat.

Summer Maintenance

  • Clean up the yard and porch to get ready for summer get-togethers. Remember the grill!
  • Test your Carbon Monoxide detectors and smoke alarms to ensure it’s working properly.
  • Clean refrigerator coils and bathroom vents so they can run efficiently.
  • Check that your washing machine and clothes dryer are working properly. In particular, make sure the dryer vent is clear of any blockages.

Fall Maintenance

  • Have the heating system serviced before the weather starts to cool down.
  • Sweep the chimney, if you have one, in preparation for cozy nights in.
  • Clean gutters and downspouts (again!) to make sure they’re draining properly.
  • Rake leaves and put away any patio furniture that you won’t be using over winter.

Winter Maintenance

  • Check on insulation in your attic, and consider insulating your hot water heater to conserve energy.
  • Ensure all holiday decorations are secure and rated for outdoor use.
  • Check around windows and doors for any cracked or broken caulk and make repairs by weather stripping to prevent cold drafts.
  • Clean overlooked places inside, like the kitchen exhaust hood and filter, the dishwasher and washing machine, ceiling fans and baseboards.
  • During the winter months, it’s important to take precautions to prevent frozen pipes in your home, as they can lead to costly repairs and water damage.

At Shearwater, a new home community located in St. Augustine, Florida, homes are designed with innovative features that make it a little easier to take care of your home, like rain-sensing irrigation systems, improved insulation and home automation options. To learn more about Shearwater’s amenities and everything it has to offer, contact us to  schedule a tour to see it all firsthand and make sure to join our Interest List to receive the latest news and updates.