Your essential exterior home maintenance checklist

Your home's longevity and value depend largely on how well you maintain it—inside and out. While interior upkeep is often top of mind and easier to notice, exterior maintenance is just as essential for preserving your home's structure, appearance, and value.

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Fortunately, caring for the outside doesn't have to be overwhelming. Use this exterior home maintenance checklist to keep your home a safe and comfortable place for years to come.

Exterior home maintenance checklist

Roof and gutters

As the first line of defense against the elements, a roof is the crowning jewel of any home—and should be treated as such.

• Inspect the roof (seasonally): Look for any damaged or missing shingles, soft spots, or signs of leaks. Prioritize repairs immediately.

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Gutters help direct water away from your home and its foundation. Clogged gutters can lead to mold growth, siding wear, and structural damage.

• Clean gutters (seasonally/as needed): Remove leaves, branches, and debris—especially after storms. Trim any overhead branches to prevent water build-up or damage to your gutters. 

Siding and exterior walls

Your home's siding and exterior walls play a crucial role in acting as a moisture and pest barrier—they're also a major aspect of curb appeal.

• Inspect siding (seasonally): Regularly check for cracks, chips, rotting, or other signs of wear.
• Clean exterior walls (spring or summer): Pressure wash to remove dirt, mold, and mildew from any siding, stucco, or brick surfaces. Be sure to use a gentle setting to avoid damage.
• Caulk or seal (as needed): Depending on the material of your siding, you may need to recaulk or reseal areas of your exterior to prevent moisture from seeping in. 

Windows and doors

Windows and doors help weatherproof a home. Whether you’re looking to keep your home cool in the summer or warm in the winter, you’ll want to create a draft-free zone. Your home’s energy efficiency can also be significantly impacted by windows and doors. 

• Look for drafts (seasonally): Check windows and doors to replace damaged or worn-out weatherstripping or insulation.
• Check for damage (seasonally): Scan for signs of rot, mold, or water damage.
• Clean and lubricate (seasonally): Maintain good curb appeal and efficiency by regularly cleaning and lubricating windows and door hinges.

Decks, patios, and porches

Your home's exterior features help create a welcoming sanctuary for enjoying the outdoors and pleasant weather. Whether you're gathering with family on the deck or savoring your morning coffee on the porch, keeping these areas in good shape is essential for both comfort and safety.

• Inspect for damage or wear (seasonally): Look for loose boards, cracks, or signs of rot. Replace any damaged material, and tighten any loose nails or screws.
• Seal and stain (3 to 5 years): Wood should be resealed and stained to prevent moisture and sun damage.

Landscaping and lawn care

Landscaping and lawn care do more than just boost a home's curb appeal—they impact the water bill and amount of routine work you're responsible for.  

• Trim trees and shrubs (as needed): Remove overgrown branches that threaten your home's siding.
• Maintain your lawn (seasonally): Add mulch and fertilize as needed. Consider replanting or replacing overgrown or dead plants. Explore low-maintenance options that reduce your bills and task list. 

Fencing and gates

Well-maintained fences and gates can help keep children and pets inside, as well as unwanted pests outside. It can also give the home good curb appeal.

• Assess stability (seasonally): Inspect fences and gates for loose posts, boards, or damage.
• Lubricate hinges and locks (annually): Apply a lubricant to keep hinges and locks in good working order.
• Repaint or stain (as needed): Depending on the material, fixtures may require a fresh coat of paint or stain to protect against weather damage. 

Driveway and walkways

Damage to your home's driveway and walkways can become a safety hazard for you and your loved ones.

• Inspect driveways and walkways (seasonally): Check for cracks or holes and immediately repair or fill them as needed. Pull or treat any weeds that threaten to crack these surfaces.
• Clean stains (seasonally): Look for oil and grease stains. Clean the surface and consider applying a sealant to prevent future stains. 

Outdoor lighting and electrical

Working lights can increase visibility for walkways and improve security, while a properly maintained electrical system ensures general home safety.

• Check and clean fixtures (seasonally): Make sure all lights are functioning and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Wipe down fixtures to remove dust, insects, or cobwebs.
• Inspect electrical outlets (monthly): Ensure outlets are in good shape. Replace any cracked or damaged covers. 

Foundation and basement

Your foundation is critical to the stability and structural integrity of your home. Unfortunately, that strength is tested with every storm or extreme weather event.

• Look for water pooling (seasonally): Ensure water isn’t pooling around the foundation. Add soil to create a slope or adjust downspouts to prevent water build-up.
• Check the basement (seasonally): If your basement has windows, check for leaks, drafts, or broken seals. Look for signs of molds or pests.
• Inspect your foundation (as needed): Check for cracks, settling, or signs of shifting. Consult a professional if you notice or are concerned about changes. 

Final thoughts

Regular upkeep of your home’s exterior is key to preserving its value, appearance, and structural integrity. Being proactive in inspecting and addressing any issues can also help prevent costly repair bills down the line. 

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Need to fund expensive repairs or home improvements? Consider tapping into your equity to cover the costs. With Point's Home Equity Investment, you can get up to $500K without monthly payments. Explore more at Point.com/hei.  

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