Winter is arguably the harshest season for your home. Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can cause significant damage if your home isn’t prepared. Proper maintenance in the fall can prevent winter headaches, but even as winter begins, you can take steps to protect your home.

Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation

Cold air can seep into your home through cracks, gaps, and poorly insulated areas, causing higher heating costs and discomfort.

• Check Windows and Doors: Inspect for gaps around windows and doors. Install weatherstripping or caulk to seal drafts. AEB Services can help with professional sealing solutions that are both effective and long-lasting.
• Upgrade Insulation: Ensure your attic and walls are properly insulated to prevent heat loss. Poor insulation is one of the primary causes of high energy bills during winter.
• Install Door Sweeps: Attach door sweeps to the bottoms of exterior doors to block cold air from entering.

Protect Pipes from Freezing

Frozen pipes can burst, leading to costly repairs and water damage.

• Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in insulation sleeves, especially those in unheated areas like basements and garages.
• Drip Faucets: On extremely cold nights, let faucets drip slightly to prevent water from freezing in the pipes.
• Shut Off Outdoor Water: Drain and shut off water to outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems to prevent freezing and cracking.

Inspect and Service Your Heating System

A properly functioning heating system is critical during winter.

• Furnace Check-Up: Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up for your furnace. Replace filters monthly to ensure efficient heating.
• Fireplace Maintenance: If you have a fireplace, clean the chimney and check for any obstructions. AEB Services can help with minor repairs and ensure your fireplace is ready for cozy winter evenings.

Prepare for Snow and Ice

Snow and ice can damage your roof, walkways, and landscaping.

• Roof Inspection: Check your roof for missing shingles or weak spots that could lead to leaks. AEB Services can assist with repairs and ensure your roof is winter-ready.
• Gutter Cleaning: Clear gutters of leaves and debris to prevent ice dams, which can cause water damage to your roof and walls.
• De-Icing Supplies: Stock up on salt or ice melt for walkways and driveways. Ensure you have a sturdy snow shovel or snowblower on hand.

Spring: Refresh and Repair After Winter

Spring is a time to assess your home for any damage caused by winter and prepare for the warmer months ahead. It’s also the perfect season for tackling outdoor maintenance projects.

Inspect for Winter Damage

After the snow and ice have melted, inspect your home for any issues.

• Roof and Gutters: Look for loose shingles, leaks, and clogged gutters. AEB Services can help with roof and gutter repairs to prevent further issues.
• Foundation: Check your home’s foundation for cracks caused by the freeze-thaw cycle.
• Windows and Doors: Examine seals and weatherstripping for any winter wear and tear.

Clean and Organize

Spring cleaning isn’t just for indoors—it applies to your home’s exterior too.

• Power Wash Siding and Decks: Remove dirt, mold, and mildew from your siding and decks to refresh your home’s appearance.
• Clear Yard Debris: Rake leaves, trim overgrown shrubs, and remove any debris left behind by winter storms.
• Organize the Garage: Spring is an ideal time to declutter your garage and ensure your tools and supplies are accessible for upcoming projects.

Test Outdoor Systems

With warmer weather on the way, it’s time to ensure outdoor systems are in working order.

• Sprinklers and Irrigation: Test your sprinkler system for leaks or broken heads. AEB Services can assist with repairs or adjustments.
• Air Conditioning: Schedule a professional inspection and cleaning of your AC unit to ensure it’s ready for summer.

Summer: Focus on Cooling and Curb Appeal

Summer is a time for enjoying the outdoors, but the heat and sun can take a toll on your home. Focusing on cooling systems and maintaining your home’s exterior is essential during these months.

Maintain Your Cooling System

Keeping your home cool and comfortable is a priority in summer.

• AC Maintenance: Replace air filters monthly and clean vents to improve airflow.
• Fans and Ventilation: Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air and reduce reliance on air conditioning.

Improve Curb Appeal

Summer is a great time to enhance your home’s exterior.

• Lawn Care: Keep your lawn trimmed and watered. Fertilize as needed to promote healthy growth.
• Exterior Painting: If your home’s exterior paint is peeling or faded, summer’s dry weather provides the perfect conditions for a fresh coat of paint. AEB Services offers professional painting services to protect and beautify your home.
• Repair Outdoor Features: Fix cracked walkways, repair fences, and update outdoor lighting for a polished look.

Prepare for Storms

Summer storms can be intense, so it’s important to be ready.

• Tree Trimming: Remove dead or overhanging branches that could damage your home during a storm.
• Inspect Sump Pumps: Ensure your sump pump is functioning properly to prevent basement flooding.

Fall: Prepare for Winter

Fall is a transitional season that offers the perfect opportunity to prepare your home for winter. By addressing potential issues now, you can avoid costly repairs during the colder months.

Perform a Roof Inspection

Fall is the last chance to check your roof before snow and ice arrive.

• Replace Damaged Shingles: Look for missing or cracked shingles and replace them promptly.
• Clean Gutters: Clear leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage during winter.

Check Your Home’s Exterior

Protect your home’s exterior from winter’s harsh conditions.

• Caulk and Seal: Inspect caulking around windows, doors, and siding to prevent drafts and water infiltration.
• Paint Touch-Ups: Address any peeling or damaged paint to protect against moisture damage. AEB Services can handle touch-ups or full repainting projects.

Maintain Your Heating System

Get your heating system ready before temperatures drop.

• Furnace Maintenance: Schedule a professional tune-up and replace filters.
• Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace batteries and ensure detectors are functioning properly for added safety during the heating season.

Prepare Your Yard

Get your yard ready for the colder months ahead.

• Rake Leaves: Remove fallen leaves to prevent mold growth and protect your lawn.
• Store Outdoor Furniture: Clean and store patio furniture to protect it from winter weather.

General Maintenance Tips for All Seasons

While seasonal tasks are important, some maintenance tasks should be performed regularly throughout the year to keep your home in top shape.

Inspect Plumbing

Check for leaks, drips, or signs of water damage in your pipes and fixtures.

Test Safety Equipment

Regularly test smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.

Deep Clean Indoors

Vacuum vents, clean carpets, and dust surfaces to improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens.

Monitor Your Energy Efficiency

Inspect windows, doors, and insulation to identify areas where energy is being wasted. AEB Services can recommend and install solutions to improve your home’s efficiency.

Stay Proactive with Seasonal Maintenance

Seasonal home maintenance is key to protecting your investment, ensuring your family’s safety, and maintaining the comfort of your home. By following these tips and addressing maintenance tasks on a seasonal schedule, you can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your home’s systems.

At AEB Services, Inc., we’re here to help with all your home maintenance and improvement needs. From sealing drafts and painting exteriors to repairing roofs and installing insulation, our team has the expertise to keep your home in excellent condition year-round. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a well-maintained, worry-free home.