Annual Maintenance Calendar
Spring (March–May)
Spring is inspection season in Pennsylvania. After a winter of freeze-thaw stress, every system in your home needs to be evaluated before the humid summer heat arrives.
- Inspect the roof for winter damage — missing shingles, damaged flashing, ice dam water infiltration
- Clean gutters and downspouts of winter debris; confirm downspouts discharge at least 6 feet from the foundation
- Inspect the foundation for new cracks, especially after a wet winter
- Test the sump pump before spring rain season — pour water into the pit and confirm it activates
- Service the central AC system before first use
- Check window and door weatherstripping for winter damage; replace where needed
- Inspect deck, porch, and exterior wood for winter moisture damage and rot
- Walk the property for drainage issues — areas where water pools near the foundation
Summer (June–August)
- Monitor basement humidity — PA summer humidity drives mold growth in basements; keep below 60% with a dehumidifier
- Check window and exterior caulking; recaulk around windows, doors, and penetrations
- Trim trees away from the roof and power lines — PA summer storms cause significant tree and branch damage
- Test smoke and CO detectors; replace batteries
- Inspect the attic for evidence of roof leaks or pest activity
- Clean dryer vent from outside — a leading cause of house fires
Fall (September–November)
- Schedule furnace tune-up — the most important fall maintenance task in Pennsylvania
- Replace furnace filter
- Clean gutters after leaf fall — clogged gutters cause ice dams and foundation water damage
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses; shut off exterior hose bib valves from inside
- Inspect and caulk around all exterior penetrations — pipes, wires, and HVAC lines through exterior walls
- Test the humidifier and replace the water panel
- Verify attic insulation adequacy before heating season
- Stock emergency supplies — generator fuel, flashlights, extra salt
Winter (December–February)
- Monitor roof snow load after heavy snowfall — remove snow from low-slope roofs if accumulation exceeds 18 inches
- Watch for ice dam formation at roof eaves after freeze-thaw cycles
- Keep cabinet doors open under exterior-wall sinks during severe cold below 10°F
- Check that heating registers are open and unobstructed throughout the home
- Test sump pump after heavy rain or snow melt
- Replace furnace filter if you haven't since October
💡 The 1–3% Rule
Financial planners commonly recommend budgeting 1–3% of your home's value annually for maintenance and repairs. On a $250,000 Pennsylvania home, that's $2,500–$7,500 per year. In older PA homes with more systems near end of life, budget toward the higher end. Deferred maintenance compounds — a $200 gutter cleaning today prevents a $4,000 foundation repair in five years.