Home Maintenance Kings

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Home maintenance by climate

Every home needs the same basic care, but the timing and the big risks change with the weather. Find your climate, then use the monthly guides with these notes in mind. Many homes fit more than one.

Cold winters

Northeast, Midwest, northern Plains, mountain towns

  • Fall is your busiest season: outdoor faucets, irrigation blowout, gutters, heating service and pipe insulation before the first hard freeze.
  • Watch for ice dams; they usually mean heat is escaping into the attic.
  • Keep the heat at 55°F or higher when away, and know how to shut off the water fast.
  • Spring: look for frost heave in walks and driveways, and check the sump pump during thaw.

Hot and humid

Southeast, Gulf Coast, Florida, Hawaii

  • Humidity and pests are the main enemies: keep the AC condensate line clear and the indoor humidity under control.
  • Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30 on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts: shutters, roof straps, generator safety and insurance checks.
  • Termites are active much of the year; inspect the foundation for mud tubes.
  • Service the AC every spring; it does most of the work all year.

Hot and dry

Southwest, inland California, Nevada, Arizona

  • Sun breaks down paint, caulk, roofing and irrigation parts quickly; check them twice a year.
  • Monsoon storms bring sudden heavy rain and wind: clear roof drains and scuppers before summer.
  • Evaporative coolers need spring start-up and fall shut-down.
  • Hard water: flush water heaters and descale fixtures more often.

Wet winters, mild temperatures

Pacific Northwest, northern California coast

  • Moss and rot are the long-term threats: keep roofs, gutters and wood clean and dry.
  • Check crawl space vents and vapor barriers for moisture.
  • Seal and stain exterior wood in the dry summer months.
  • Check for clogged downspouts during the first big autumn rains.

Wildfire-prone areas

Much of the West, parts of the Plains

  • Keep 5 feet around the house clear of dry plants, wood piles and mulch.
  • Clean leaves and needles from roofs and gutters often during fire season.
  • Cover vents with fine metal mesh where local guidance recommends it.
  • Check your local fire agency for current defensible-space rules.

General guidance. Local codes, utility programs and fire agency rules vary; check them for your area.