As temperatures rise and flowers bloom, May is the perfect time to give your home the seasonal attention it deserves. Whether you’re a longtime homeowner or a first-time buyer, performing routine maintenance now can save you from expensive repairs and ensure your home is safe, efficient, and ready for summer fun.
From outdoor upkeep to indoor safety checks, this May Home Maintenance Checklist covers everything you need to protect your investment — and enjoy peace of mind all season long.
1. Clean and Inspect Gutters
Spring rains and falling blossoms can lead to clogged gutters, which may cause water to overflow and damage your roof, siding, or even your foundation.Pro Tip: Use a scoop or gloved hand to clear out debris, then flush gutters and downspouts with a hose. Make sure water flows freely and away from your home.
2. Service Your HVAC System
Before the first summer heatwave hits, schedule a professional HVAC tune-up. Dirty filters and neglected systems can reduce efficiency, strain your system, and drive up energy costs.Bonus: Ask your technician to check for duct leaks and calibrate your thermostat for optimal cooling.
3. Power Wash Siding and Windows
A quick rinse isn’t enough — pollen, mildew, and grime can cling to your home’s exterior after a wet winter. Power washing not only boosts curb appeal but helps prevent long-term damage to siding and windows.Don’t Forget: Clean your window screens and check for tears that could let bugs in.
4. Inspect Roof and Shingles
Use binoculars or safely climb to a vantage point to look for missing, curled, or cracked shingles. Damaged areas can allow water to seep into your attic or ceilings.Pro Tip: Also check flashing around vents and chimneys for signs of rust or lifting.
5. Test Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems
If your outdoor plumbing has been dormant all winter, test it before it’s needed. Turn on hoses and sprinkler heads to check for leaks, cracks, or low pressure — common signs of freeze damage.Tip: Replace cracked hoses or sprinkler heads to avoid wasting water and money.
6. Deep Clean Your Grill
Summer = grilling season! But nothing ruins a BBQ like a dirty, unevenly heating grill.Checklist: Scrub grates with a wire brush, empty the grease trap, and inspect propane lines or charcoal trays. A little prep now goes a long way when the burgers are sizzling.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
This one’s a life-saver — literally. Press the test button on each detector in your home, and replace batteries if needed.Safety Tip: If your detectors are more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace them completely.
8. Declutter the Garage or Shed
Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. Garages and sheds can become dumping grounds over the winter. Take time to clear out unused tools, dried-up paint cans, broken gear, and expired chemicals.Bonus: Organize seasonal tools like lawn mowers, trimmers, and garden supplies so they’re ready to go.
9. Refresh Landscaping and Flower Beds
Spring landscaping sets the tone for your home’s first impression. Trim overgrown hedges, pull weeds, edge your lawn, and add a fresh layer of mulch to flower beds.Why it matters: Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and makes your yard look beautifully maintained.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Home in Top Shape Year-Round
Seasonal maintenance may not be the most exciting part of homeownership, but it’s one of the most important. Tackling this May Home Maintenance Checklist helps prevent costly surprises, increases your home’s value, and keeps everything running smoothly through the summer and beyond.
