Seasonal Home Maintenance (Michigan)
Michigan's weather is no joke. This is what to do and when: tailored to GR's freeze-thaw cycles.
🌷 Spring (March to May)
- Inspect roof for winter damage: loose shingles, ice dam cracks
- Test your sump pump before spring rain season
- Clean gutters of winter debris; check downspout drainage
- Schedule AC tune-up before summer (book early, HVAC shops fill fast)
- Check exterior caulk and weatherstripping after freeze/thaw
- Walk the foundation for cracks that opened over winter
- Reconnect garden hoses; check spigots for freeze damage
- Test smoke and CO detectors; replace batteries
☀️ Summer (June to August)
- Replace/clean AC filters monthly during heavy use
- Inspect deck or patio: boards, railings, and fasteners
- Check attic ventilation (critical for preventing moisture and heat damage)
- Trim trees away from the house: summer storms hit hard
- Caulk windows and doors if you see light gaps
- Check sprinkler/irrigation systems for leaks
- Paint or stain exterior wood while temps are right
🍂 Fall (September to November)
- Schedule furnace inspection before first cold snap (book early: September books fill fast)
- Clean gutters after leaves fall; check for standing water
- Disconnect garden hoses and cover exterior faucets
- Drain and winterize irrigation systems
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundation; mice look for openings once it cools
- Check fireplace/wood stove; have chimney swept if used
- Stock up: ice melt, snow shovel, emergency kit
- Reverse ceiling fans (clockwise in winter = pushes warm air down)
❄️ Winter (December to February)
- Check attic insulation: prevents ice dams on the roof
- Keep garage at 40°F+ if pipes run through it
- Know where your main water shutoff is (critical if a pipe bursts)
- Clear snow from A/C units and exhaust vents
- Check for ice dams after big snowfalls; melt with calcium chloride, not rock salt
- Run a trickle of water in extreme cold to prevent frozen pipes
- Inspect basement for moisture after thaw/refreeze cycles