Annual Home Maintenance Checklist to Keep Your Property Value Up

Spring: Refresh and Inspect

• Clean gutters and check the roof for wear: Look for missing shingles, rusted flashing, and moss buildup after the winter rains. Clear leaves and debris from gutters to prevent backups and water damage during spring showers.
  
  
• Walk the property after the rain: Make sure water drains away from the foundation and isn’t pooling near the base of your home. Homes on hillsides in San Francisco are especially vulnerable to runoff-related erosion.
  
  
• Schedule HVAC maintenance: Even if you don’t use air conditioning often, professional servicing improves efficiency and catches minor issues before summer. Be sure to clean or replace filters to keep indoor air quality high.
  
  
• Wash windows and inspect exterior paint: Salt air and city grime can dull glass and wear down finishes, especially in coastal-facing neighborhoods. Clean window tracks and check painted surfaces for peeling or cracking.

Summer: Exterior Upkeep and Preventive Projects

• Touch up paint and seal exposed wood: Areas like window trim and eaves can degrade quickly from fog and sun exposure. A fresh coat of paint or sealant helps preserve materials and boost curb appeal.
  
  
• Power wash and reseal decks: San Francisco’s fog and marine layer can lead to slippery, weathered wood. Power washing and resealing prevent rot and extend the life of your deck.
  
  
• Inspect fences and retaining walls: Look for loose boards, cracks, or leaning sections that may have shifted over time. These structures are vital for both aesthetics and safety on sloped properties.
  
  
• Test outdoor spigots and irrigation: Check for leaks, poor pressure, or signs of corrosion on outdoor plumbing. An efficient system conserves water and supports healthy landscaping.
  
  
• Cut back overgrown plants: Trim vegetation away from your siding, roofline, and walkways. This not only reduces fire and pest risks but also keeps your exterior in better shape.

Fall: Prepare for Wet Weather

• Clear out leaves from gutters and downspouts—again: Debris can accumulate quickly in late fall and lead to overflow or clogs during heavy rain. Regular clearing helps protect your foundation and siding.
  
  
• Re-caulk windows and doors: Fill in gaps around frames to prevent drafts and water intrusion. This improves energy efficiency and keeps your home warmer as temperatures drop.
  
  
• Schedule a chimney sweep: If you use your fireplace, make sure the chimney is clean and safe for operation. Creosote buildup is a fire hazard and should be removed annually.
  
  
• Test your furnace: Run the system and check for consistent airflow and any odd smells or noises. Replace the filter to maintain performance through winter.
  
  
• Double-check roof flashing and skylights: Look for small gaps or cracks that could lead to leaks. Prompt repairs reduce the risk of water damage during storm season.

Winter: Indoor Focus and Storm Readiness

• Check for drafts around windows and outlets: Use a thermal leak detector to find spots where warm air escapes. Sealing these gaps lowers energy bills and keeps your home more comfortable.
  
  
• Flush your water heater: Sediment buildup can reduce efficiency and cause damage over time. Draining a few gallons each year extends the system's life.
  
  
• Inspect the basement or crawlspace for moisture: Look for mold, damp spots, or musty odors that suggest leaks or poor ventilation. Early detection is key in older San Francisco homes.
  
  
• Create a storm readiness kit: Include flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, and basic supplies. Outages in San Francisco may be rare, but preparedness always pays off.
  
  
• Run and test your sump pump: Pour water into the pit to ensure the pump activates and drains properly. This is essential for homes at or below street level, where flooding is more likely.

Year-Round Best Practices

• Stay alert for signs of pests: Watch for droppings, chewed wires, or termite damage, especially in crawlspaces and attics. San Francisco’s dense housing and older buildings make pest prevention crucial.
  
  
• Walk the exterior for foundation cracks: Small hairline cracks may be normal, but new or widening ones should be evaluated. Foundation integrity is especially important in a seismic zone.
  
  
• Organize home repair records: Keep a digital or physical folder with receipts, warranties, and before-and-after photos. This documentation helps with resale value and insurance claims.
  
  
• Clean your dryer vent duct: Lint buildup reduces efficiency and poses a fire hazard. Disconnect and vacuum the full duct at least once a year.
  
  
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries and confirm devices are working properly in all areas of your home. These checks are quick but critical for your property's and your family's long-term safety.

Learn More with the Laufenberg Wyman Team