New England April Home Maintenance
HOME MAINTENANCE
April Home Maintenance Checklist for New England
April in New England means longer days, fluctuating temperatures, and the arrival of spring rains. Homeowners should focus on exterior maintenance, drainage solutions, and prepping their homes for the warmer months ahead. Here’s your essential checklist.
1. Inspect & Maintain the Roof
Why It Matters: Winter storms may have caused damage, and spring rains will test the roof’s durability.
Risk If Ignored: Leaks, insulation damage, and mold growth.
DIY Tip: Look for missing or damaged shingles, check flashing around chimneys, and clean off moss buildup.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Roof replacement ($7,000–$15,000).
2. Clean & Repair Gutters & Downspouts
Why It Matters: Spring rains require clear gutters for proper drainage.
Risk If Ignored: Water overflow can damage siding, cause foundation issues, and lead to basement flooding.
DIY Tip: Remove debris, flush gutters with water, and check downspouts for proper flow.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Foundation repair ($4,000–$12,000).
3. Inspect & Seal Windows & Doors
Why It Matters: Drafty homes lose energy and allow moisture buildup.
Risk If Ignored: Higher cooling costs, increased humidity, and mold growth.
DIY Tip: Apply weather stripping, caulk gaps, and replace damaged screens.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Window replacement ($300–$1,200 per window).
4. Test & Prepare the Air Conditioning System
Why It Matters: Temperatures will rise soon, and AC systems should be efficient.
Risk If Ignored: High energy bills and system failure during summer heat waves.
DIY Tip: Replace air filters, clean outdoor units, and schedule a professional tune-up.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: AC replacement ($4,000–$10,000).
5. Check for Basement & Foundation Leaks
Why It Matters: Melting snow and heavy rains can cause basement flooding.
Risk If Ignored: Water damage, mold growth, and costly foundation repairs.
DIY Tip: Inspect basement walls for moisture stains, test sump pumps, and improve drainage around the home.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Water damage restoration ($3,000–$7,000).
6. Service Lawn Equipment for Spring Use
Why It Matters: Lawns and gardens will need maintenance as temperatures rise.
Risk If Ignored: Delayed lawn care and costly equipment repairs.
DIY Tip: Sharpen mower blades, check oil levels, and replace spark plugs in power tools.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Lawn equipment replacement ($300–$1,500).
7. Pressure Wash Walkways, Decks & Siding
Why It Matters: Winter grime, mold, and mildew can accumulate on outdoor surfaces.
Risk If Ignored: Slippery surfaces, long-term damage, and reduced curb appeal.
DIY Tip: Use a pressure washer on siding, patios, and driveways to remove dirt buildup.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Driveway resurfacing ($1,000–$5,000).
8. Prepare Landscaping for Spring Growth
Why It Matters: New England lawns need aeration, fertilization, and weed control.
Risk If Ignored: Patchy lawns, overgrown plants, and soil nutrient depletion.
DIY Tip: Aerate the lawn, apply fertilizer, prune trees, and add fresh mulch to garden beds.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Landscape repair ($1,500–$5,000).
9. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Why It Matters: Seasonal changes require regular safety checks.
Risk If Ignored: Fire hazards and carbon monoxide poisoning.
DIY Tip: Replace batteries, test alarms, and install additional detectors if needed.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Fire damage restoration ($10,000+).
10. Inspect & Repair Outdoor Furniture & Structures
Why It Matters: Spring means spending more time outdoors, so decks and furniture should be in good shape.
Risk If Ignored: Worn-out furniture, unsafe decks, and expensive replacements.
DIY Tip: Clean patio furniture, inspect decks for rot or loose boards, and apply protective sealant.
Estimated Cost If Ignored: Deck refinishing ($1,500–$5,000), patio furniture replacement ($500–$3,000).
Final Thoughts: Prepare for Spring Rains & Warmer Days
April is a key month for New England homeowners to tackle home exterior maintenance, improve drainage, and get ready for the outdoor season. Completing these tasks now will help prevent costly repairs and ensure a smooth transition into summer.