As the seasons change, it’s your home that begins to quietly shift behind the scenes — whether for frosty snow, for continual rain, or for a scorching heatwave. And if you live in a place like Madison, Wisconsin, you must know just how unpredictable that change can be. One day it’s sunny; the next you’re watching sleet accumulate on your windows!
That’s precisely why opening the door on a few home maintenance tasks before the season shifts is so important. Getting your preparation done early means no surprises and more time to enjoy a stress-free season. These are not all big, overwhelming projects — they’re doable tasks that can help you run your house better in the face of changing conditions.
Well then, if you happen to have an afternoon or two on your hands, here’s a to-do list of home projects perfect for crossing off before the season truly makes its grand entrance.
1) Start with the Roof
Your roof does more than give your house a shape. It’s the first line of defense for your home against rain, snow and all sorts of weather. And even one broken shingle can result in a leak that damages a lot more than you’d think.
What to look for:
- Spot cracked, curled or missing shingles
- Check for sagging or pooled water
- Look for moss or algae growth
- Inspect for worn or rusted flashing near chimneys or vents
Not sure where to begin? That’s okay. You should be able to keep local Madison roofing contractors on speed dial especially in places where the weather can change really quickly. They will have a pretty good idea of what to be on the lookout for depending on the season.
Here’s why it matters: A couple of minutes now could save you thousands later in repairs. Nobody wants to find a leak in the roof during a snowstorm.
2) Clean Out Your Gutters
We get it — gutters aren’t fun to clean. But it’s one of those tasks that pays off. With gutters filled with leaves, twigs or nesting critters, water doesn’t get to where it should go. That can result in roof damage, issues with siding or, worse yet, water getting into your basement.
Here’s what to do:
- Grab a ladder, gloves and a trash bag
- Remove leaves and other debris by hand
- Wash out downspouts with a hose
- Make sure water flows away from the house by at least 3 feet
- Install downspout extensions if necessary
If that’s something you’re tired of repeating every few months, you may want to consider installing gutter guards. They’re not perfect — but they reduce your mess and save you so much time.
3) Caulk or Plug Up Drafty Windows and Doors
If you’ve ever experienced some strange breeze indoors even with the windows shut, it’s likely you’ve got air leaks. These small holes might not seem like a big deal but they can wreak havoc on your heating and cooling efficiency — and your energy bills.
To fix it:
- Check windows and door frames for gaps
- Use weather stripping and caulk to seal leaks
- Inspect sliding glass doors and thresholds for leaks
- Put in draft stoppers at the bottom of doors
- Opt for insulated curtains for added warmth during winter
Bonus tip: Carry a lit candle or incense stick around. Vaulted ceilings, skylights, attic fans or shingled roof lines are common culprits. If the smoke moves sideways, you’ve got a leak right there.
4) Don’t Skip HVAC Maintenance
Before it’s too late and your furnace or AC gets pushed to the brink, give it a little TLC. A mini tune-up can save you from mid-season breakdowns.
Make sure to:
- Replace the air filter ideally every 1–3 months
- Get an inspection from a professional
- Ask to check for blockages, damaged parts or odd noises
- Set your thermostat to the correct temperature
- Vacuum vents and remove any obstructions
A well-tuned HVAC system not only keeps you comfortable, it also helps keep your indoor air healthy – which is a big deal when you’re spending more time indoors.
5) Whip the Yard and Outdoor Gear into Shape
When you’re snug indoors, your yard can be super easy to forget. But small outdoor prep now can save you time (and money) in the future.
Here’s a simple checklist:
- Prune trees that hang over your roof or power lines
- Clean flower beds and eliminate dead plants
- Drain garden hoses and turn off outdoor water valves
- Wash and store lawn tools, sprinklers and gardening gear
- Fold in or move covered patio furniture before bad weather arrives
- Check that the outdoor lights are working especially along walkways or entryways
6) Check Safety Devices
Seasonal changes are a good time to check safety items we tend to overlook. It won’t take much time but it counts.
Run through this list:
- Check smoke and CO alarms
- Replace batteries even if they seem fine
- Make sure fire extinguishers are full and not expired
- Ensure flashlights have working batteries
- Restock essentials like bottled water and first aid items
And if you live in a place where there are storms or power outages, you’ll probably want to go ahead and have extra blankets, a backup power source or some nonperishable snacks on hand too.
We get it — life is a time crunch. But you may find that devoting a few hours this weekend to completing a few of these tasks is well worth your time. It doesn’t have to be an ‘all-or-nothing’ thing. Simply moving around your house, creating a brief list and handling things in small waves can be helpful.
And keep in mind: The goal is not perfection. It’s preparation. When you are already prepared for the season before you, you worry less and live much more comfortably.
So pull on a pair of gloves, check your tools and get going. You’ll have peace of mind that your home is secure, comfortable and prepared.
