Home Maintenance Checklist: Keeping Your Investment in Top Shape

Owning a home in Spokane is more than just having a place to live—it’s an investment that requires ongoing care to maintain its value and functionality. Regular home maintenance keeps your property looking its best and helps you avoid costly repairs down the road.

From seasonal tasks to yearly inspections, staying on top of maintenance ensures your home remains safe, efficient, and comfortable for you and your family. With Spokane’s unique climate, including cold winters and warm summers, it’s essential to address tasks specific to the area.

Clean and Inspect Your Gutters

Gutters are critical in protecting your home from water damage by channeling rainwater away from your foundation. Clean out leaves and debris regularly, especially in the fall, and check for leaks or sagging sections that may need repair.

Examine Your Home’s Exterior

Inspect the exterior of your home for signs of damage, such as cracks in the siding, peeling paint, or loose shingles. Addressing these issues promptly helps prevent water infiltration and keeps your home looking its best.

Touch Up or Repaint Exterior Walls

Painting isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a protective layer against weather and wear for your home. Repaint areas where the paint is chipped or peeling, or consider a full repaint every few years to maintain a fresh look and strong protection.

Inspect and Repair Your Roof

Check your roof for missing, curling, or damaged shingles and signs of moss or algae growth. Spokane’s seasonal weather can be harsh on roofs, so regular inspections help extend its lifespan and prevent leaks. This should be at the top of your winter checklist.

Change Your Furnace Filters

Changing your furnace filters every 1-3 months keeps your HVAC system running efficiently and improves indoor air quality. Clean filters also reduce energy bills and ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.

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Clean and Inspect Your Dryer Vent

A clogged dryer vent isn’t just inefficient—it’s a significant fire hazard. Remove lint buildup from the vent and ductwork at least once a year to ensure your dryer operates safely and effectively.

Test and Maintain Your Fire Extinguishers

Ensure your fire extinguishers are fully charged and easily accessible. Check the pressure gauge, inspect for damage, and replace expired extinguishers that are no longer functional.

Test Smoke Detectors & Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for home safety. Test them monthly, replace batteries at least once a year, and ensure the devices are within their expiration date.

Check Your Plumbing for Leaks

Inspect pipes under sinks, basements, and around water heaters for signs of leaks or corrosion. Addressing even small leaks promptly can save money on water bills and prevent costly water damage.

Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Have your HVAC system serviced by a professional at least once a year to ensure it’s running efficiently. Regular maintenance can extend the system’s life and reduce unexpected breakdowns during extreme temperatures — this is a huge help when it comes to budgeting for your home maintenance costs.

Repair or Replace Window Screens

Inspect your window screens for tears or damage, especially after windy seasons. Repair small holes with a screen patch or replace damaged screens to keep bugs out and improve your home’s ventilation.

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Inspect and Clean Your Chimney

If your home has a fireplace, inspect and clean your chimney annually to remove creosote buildup and check for structural issues. This reduces the risk of chimney fires and ensures safe operation during Spokane’s colder months.

Reseal Cracks in Your Driveway

Inspect your driveway for cracks or holes caused by wear and seasonal changes. Resealing these cracks prevents further damage and improves your home’s curb appeal. This is small, but can help when it comes time for a home appraisal if you’re looking to sell your home.

Clean and Maintain Your Garbage Disposal

Run ice cubes and vinegar through your garbage disposal to clean the blades and remove odors. Avoid putting fibrous or hard materials down the disposal to keep it running smoothly.

Check and Lubricate Your Garage Door

Inspect your garage door for signs of wear, such as frayed cables or noisy operation. Lubricate the hinges, rollers, and tracks regularly to ensure smooth and safe functionality.

Inspect and Clean Your Dishwasher

Check the dishwasher for food debris and buildup around the filters and spray arms. Clean these areas regularly to ensure efficient operation and sparkling dishes.

Service Your Heating System

Before Spokane’s chilly winters, have your heating system inspected and serviced. Routine maintenance keeps your home warm and helps keep your Spokane home energy efficient.

Maintain Your Air Conditioning Unit

Clean or replace the filters in your air conditioning unit before the summer season. Regular maintenance ensures efficient cooling and prolongs the unit’s lifespan.

Prune Trees and Shrubs

Trim back trees and shrubs near your home to prevent damage from falling branches and improve airflow around your house. Proper pruning also enhances your landscaping’s appearance.

Inspect and Replace Weather-Stripping

Check the weather-stripping around doors and windows for cracks or gaps. Replace worn strips to improve energy efficiency and keep drafts out.

Balance and Clean Ceiling Fans

Clean the blades of your ceiling fans to remove dust buildup. In winter, reverse the fan direction to help circulate warm air throughout your home.

Test and Adjust Your Sprinkler System

Inspect sprinkler heads for clogs or leaks and adjust the system to ensure proper coverage. Winterize the system before freezing temperatures to avoid burst pipes. This is very important if you’re looking to sell your home in spring.

Flush Your Water Heater

Sediment buildup in your water heater can reduce efficiency and shorten its lifespan. Flush the tank annually to remove deposits and ensure optimal performance.

Check Your Home’s Foundation

Walk around your home to inspect the foundation for cracks or signs of settling. Addressing issues early can prevent costly structural damage.

Clean Your Exhaust Fans

Kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans can accumulate dust and grease, reducing efficiency. Clean them regularly to ensure proper ventilation and improve air quality.

Protect Your Home with Consistent Maintenance

Keeping up with regular home maintenance is the key to preserving your home’s value and avoiding costly repairs. Following a comprehensive checklist ensures your home remains safe, efficient, and comfortable for years. Every task plays a role in safeguarding your investment, from cleaning gutters to inspecting HVAC systems.

At NuKey Realty & Property Management in Spokane, we understand the importance of maintaining your home as one of your most significant assets. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for guidance or a potential buyer wanting advice on property management, our team is here to help. Contact NuKey Realty today for expert support in navigating all aspects of homeownership in Spokane and making the most of your investment.

NuKey Realty & Property Management