Home Guides & Tips A Home Maintenance Checklist for Wake County Homeowners

A Home Maintenance Checklist for Wake County Homeowners

Raleigh ProConnect
March 6, 2025

Owning a home in Wake County is great—but there comes a day when you realize it comes with a never-ending to-do list. One day, it’s your HVAC acting up in the middle of a cold January. The next, it’s your gutters overflowing during a Summer downpour. Even in a newer home, there’s always something that needs attention.

A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in keeping your home in good shape (and your repair bills from getting out of control). That’s why we’ve put together this seasonal home maintenance checklist—so you know exactly what to tackle and when.

Plus, we’ll help you figure out when it’s time to put down the toolbox and call in a pro. Because some jobs just aren’t worth the time and hassle.

Let’s get to it!

Spring Home Maintenance List (March-May)

Springtime in Wake County is beautiful—pollen-covered cars and all. It’s also the perfect time to check for any damage winter left behind and prep your home for the warmer months ahead.

Inspect and Clean Your HVAC System

Your AC has been hibernating all winter, but once the temperatures start climbing, you’ll want it running at full blast. Now’s the time to replace your air filters, clean vents, and make sure your system is working efficiently.

DIY: Swap out air filters (every 1–3 months), vacuum vents, and clear any debris around your outdoor unit.
Call a pro: If your AC is making weird noises, struggling to cool your home, or overdue for a tune-up, book an HVAC company before the summer rush.

Check Your Roof and Gutters for Winter Damage

Winter storms and heavy rain can loosen shingles and clog gutters with leaves and debris. Ignoring these issues now can lead to costly leaks later.

DIY: Grab a ladder (safely) and clear out gutters, checking for any sagging or blockages. Look for missing or damaged shingles from the ground using binoculars.
Call a pro: If you see significant roof damage or sagging gutters, a roofing company can take care of any repairs needed before they turn into leaks.

Service Your Irrigation System

Raleigh summers get hot, and your lawn is about to need some serious hydration. Do a quick check-up on your in-ground sprinkler system to make sure it’s working efficiently and providing proper coverage across your yard before peak season.

DIY: Test sprinkler heads, adjust settings for optimal coverage, and check for leaks.
When to call a pro: If you notice low water pressure, uneven watering, or leaks underground, professional landscapers or irrigation specialists in Raleigh can diagnose and fix the issue.

Check Your Sump Pump (If You Have One) to Prevent Basement Flooding

Spring in Raleigh means rain—and lots of it. If your home has a basement, a working sump pump is the difference between staying dry and discovering an indoor swimming pool where your storage bins used to be.

DIY: Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and see if it kicks on. If nothing happens, check the power source and clean out any debris.
When to call a pro: If the pump hums but doesn’t pump, cycles non-stop, or just refuses to work, call a plumber before the next big storm rolls in.

Trim Trees and Shrubs to Prevent Overgrowth Near Your House

Overgrown tree branches can scrape against your siding, block gutters, and turn into projectiles during spring storms. Now’s the time to cut them back.

DIY: Use pruning shears to cut back branches at least a few feet from your house and roof. Keep shrubs trimmed below window level for security.
When to call a pro: If you’ve got large branches near power lines or high up in trees, a tree service company can trim them safely.

Check Your Foundation Vents and Crawl Spaces for Pests

As the weather begins to warm up, critters like termites, mice, and even snakes start looking for a cozy place to settle in. Don’t let that place be under your house.

DIY: Walk around your home and look for holes, torn vent screens, or signs of nesting around your crawlspace vents. Replace damaged screens and seal small gaps with caulk, foam, or wire mesh.
When to call a pro: If you see termite tunnels, droppings, or hear rustling in the crawl space, a pest control expert in Wake County can inspect and treat the area.

Reseal or Stain Wooden Decks to Protect Against Moisture

Between the pollen, rain, and humidity, decks in Wake County take a beating in the spring. A fresh coat of sealant once a year helps prevent wood from rotting and keeps it looking great for your summer BBQs.

DIY: Clean the deck with a pressure washer, let it dry, then apply a weatherproof sealant or stain.
When to call a pro: If your deck has loose boards, structural issues, or needs major refinishing, hire a deck contractor for repairs.

Inspect Fences and Gates for Winter Damage and Make Repairs

Decks aren’t the only thing that takes a beating during the Winter. Snow, ice, and wind can leave your fence looking a little worse for wear. Now’s the time to fix sagging gates and broken panels before summer storms make things worse.

DIY: Check for loose posts, rusted hinges that need to be replaced, or broken boards. Tighten screws and repaint or restain if needed.
When to call a pro: If sections are leaning or falling apart, a fence company can reinforce or replace them.

Summer Home Maintenance (June–August)

Summers in Wake County mean backyard barbecues, lightning storms, and heat that makes you question why you ever left whatever state you’re from. It’s also when your home works overtime to keep you cool, dry, and comfortable. Here are some home maintenance tasks you should be doing during the summer.

Inspect Windows and Doors for Energy Efficiency

That lovely summer breeze? You want it outside—not sneaking in through gaps in your windows and doors. Small air leaks can make your AC work harder, sending your energy bill through the roof.

DIY: On a breezy day, hold a candle near the edges of your windows and doors—if the flame flickers, you’ve got a draft. Replace worn weather stripping and seal small gaps with caulk.
When to call a pro: If you have old, inefficient windows or major gaps, local window companies can help with replacements or repairs.

Pressure Wash Exterior Surfaces

Between pollen, mildew, and general grime, your home’s exterior probably isn’t as clean as you think. And even if you don’t notice, you can bet your HOA will. A good pressure wash keeps your siding, driveway, or deck looking fresh—and can help prevent long-term damage.

DIY: Rent a pressure washer to clean dirt and mildew off your siding, deck, and walkways.
When to call a pro: If you have areas you can’t reach, delicate surfaces, or you just don’t want to spend a Saturday soaked in water and grime, hire a professional power washing service.

Test and Maintain Your Home’s Plumbing System

Plumbing problems love to show up at the worst times. A mid-year check-up can help you catch small issues before they turn into major headaches, especially when it comes to your fixtures and water heater.

DIY: Check under sinks for leaks, test water pressure in all faucets, and drain your water heater to flush out sediment buildup.
When to call a pro: If you notice persistent leaks, slow drains, or odd noises from your pipes, it’s time to call a licensed plumber.

Touch Up Exterior Paint on Doors, Trim, and Shutters

The combination of heat, humidity, and summer storms can cause paint to peel, fade, or look dull. Not only does this affect your home’s curb appeal, but it can also expose wood to moisture, which can lead to rot over time.

DIY: Use exterior paint to touch up minor chips and cracks. Scrape, sand, and prime peeling areas before repainting.
When to call a pro: If large areas need attention, or your home’s whole exterior needs a refresh, a painting contractor in Wake County can handle the job (and keep you from sweating it out in the heat).

Check for Signs of Termites or Other Pests

If there’s one thing Raleigh summers are good for, it’s attracting bugs. And termites? They don’t waste any time. By the time you notice them, they’ve probably been munching on your house for months.

DIY: Walk around your home and check for mud tubes along the foundation, tiny discarded wings near windows and doors, or wood that sounds hollow when tapped.
When to call a pro: If you see any warning signs, don’t wait—pest control companies can inspect and treat before the problem gets worse (and more expensive).

Inspect Attic Ventilation and Add Insulation If Needed

Attics trap heat like an oven, and without proper ventilation, that heat builds up quickly—forcing your AC to work overtime and making your energy bill climb.

DIY: Check attic vents for blockages like dust or nests. Make sure your insulation is evenly spread and not compressed.
When to call a pro: If your attic is sweltering despite having vents, an HVAC contractor or insulation specialist can assess airflow and improve efficiency.

Inspect and Lubricate Garage Door Tracks and Springs

A sticky, squeaky garage door isn’t just annoying—it’s a sign that the tracks, rollers, or springs might be wearing out. Over time, you could end up with a garage door that won’t open when you need it most.

DIY: Clean the tracks with a damp cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant to the rollers and springs to keep everything moving smoothly.
When to call a pro: If your garage door is making grinding noises, struggling to open, or feels unbalanced, a garage door specialist can inspect it and replace any worn-out parts before they fail.

Check for Signs of Mold or Mildew in Bathrooms and Basements

Summer humidity creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew. Catching it early prevents damage to your home and potential health issues.

DIY: Keep an eye out for dark spots on walls, musty odors, or condensation buildup. Use vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to clean small patches and run a dehumidifier in damp areas.
When to call a pro: If mold keeps coming back, is spreading, or covers a large area, a remediation specialist can find and fix the source before it becomes a major issue.

Fall Home Maintenance (September–November)

Fall in the Triangle is a sight to see. The humidity finally gives us a break, the trees put on a show, and everything strangely smells like pumpkins. But before you get too cozy, now’s the time to prep your home for when winter rolls in.

Service Your Heating System Before Cold Weather Hits

Don’t wait until the first cold snap to find out your heat isn’t working. A little preventative maintenance keeps your system running efficiently (and your energy bills in check). One key component to check is the heating element on a heat pump or the heat exchanger if you have a gas furnace.

DIY: Replace furnace filters, clean vents, and check your thermostat to make sure it’s communicating with your unit properly.
When to call a pro: Schedule a heating and cooling company to inspect and tune up your system. They can check your heating element for wear or a heat exchanger for cracks so you get the most efficient heat out of your unit and keep your family safe.

Clean and Inspect Your Fireplace & Chimney

If you have a fireplace, fall is the perfect time to get it ready for those cooler nights. A neglected chimney can become a fire hazard, especially if you haven’t had a fire in a couple of years.

DIY: Clear out any old ashes, look up in your chimney to see if you can see any noticeable cracks (light coming in), and make sure your damper opens and closes properly.
When to call a pro: If you haven’t used your fireplace in a while, it’s always a good idea to get a professional chimney sweep done. These technicians will clean out any built-up soot and inspect for any structural issues that could cause a fire or carbon monoxide problems.

Repair Cracks and Crumbling in Driveways and Sidewalks

The hot temperatures and heavy rains during the summer can take a toll on concrete and asphalt. Small cracks might not seem like a big deal now, but once water seeps in and temperatures drop, they can expand and cause even more damage. By winter, you could be dealing with crumbling pavement or uneven surfaces that can cause tripping hazards.

DIY: Fill small cracks with a driveway or concrete sealant to prevent further damage. Sweep away debris and make sure water drains properly to avoid pooling in high foot traffic areas.
When to call a pro: If your driveway or sidewalks have large cracks, potholes, or serious crumbling, a concrete company can resurface or replace damaged sections before winter makes the problem worse.

Clear Leaves and Debris from Outdoor Drains

Falling leaves may look great on your lawn, but when they clog up outdoor drains, they can lead to standing water, basement leaks, and even foundation issues when heavy fall rains hit.

DIY: Use a rake or leaf blower to clear leaves and debris from outdoor drains and gutters. Make sure water flows freely by running a hose through problem areas.
When to call a pro: If water keeps pooling around your home, a landscaper or drainage specialist can install solutions like French drains or extend downspouts to direct water away from your foundation.

Drain and Store Garden Hoses Before Freezing Temperatures

Leaving your water in hoses connected to your outdoor faucets when temperatures drop can cause the water inside to freeze and expand, which can lead to cracked spigots, burst pipes, and costly repairs.

DIY: Detach hoses, drain them completely, and store them in a shed or garage. Shut off outdoor water lines if possible. Add insulation around all your outdoor faucets to keep them from freezing up and cracking when the temperatures drop.
When to call a pro: If an outdoor faucet is already leaking or won’t shut off properly, a plumber can repair or replace it before winter sets in.

Secure Loose Handrails and Steps

Fallen leaves can hide loose boards, and winter ice can turn wobbly railings and unstable steps into serious safety concerns. Before the first freeze, check that everything is sturdy and secure.

DIY: Check for loose boards, stones, cracks, or weak spots on stairs and railings.
When to call a pro: If your railings are shaky, your steps are rotting, or you have a loose brick or two, a handyman or masonry company can reinforce them to make sure everything is sturdy when you need to use them.

Look in Your Basement or Crawl Space for Gaps or Spaces Where Rodents Can Enter

As the temperature drops, mice, rats, and other critters start looking for a warm place to nest—and your basement or crawl space is the perfect spot. Although this is somewhat already mentioned, it’s a good idea to check these areas before and after Winter.

DIY: Walk around your home and check for small gaps or openings near the foundation, vents, and pipes. Seal small holes with steel wool or expanding foam to keep pests out.
When to call a pro: If you see droppings, hear scratching in the walls, or notice signs of chewing, a pest control specialist can inspect and seal off entry points before an infestation takes hold.

Check for Drafts Under Doors and Install Door Sweeps If Needed

Drafty doors let in cold air, making your heating system work harder and sending your energy bill through the roof.

DIY: Hold a candle or incense stick near the bottom of your doors—if the flame flickers or smoke shifts, you have a draft. Install a door sweep or replace worn-out weather stripping.
When to call a pro: If doors aren’t closing properly or the draft is coming from old, damaged frames, a handyman or door repair company in Wake County can make the necessary repairs or recommend upgrades.

Check and Maintain Indoor Flooring

With cooler weather rolling in, you’ll probably be spending more time indoors—so now’s the time to make sure your floors are in good shape before winter’s mud, moisture, and heavy foot traffic take their toll.

DIY: Give carpets a deep clean to get rid of summer dust and allergens. For hardwood or laminate floors, check for scratches or gaps and apply a protective sealant if needed. If you have tile, inspect the grout for cracks and reseal it to prevent moisture damage.
When to call a pro: If you’ve got loose tiles or warped hardwood, a flooring specialist can repair or restore them before winter makes things worse. If your carpets need a serious refresh, a cleaning company in Wake County can come out to remove deep stains and odors, leaving your home feeling fresh for the colder months ahead.

Winter Home Maintenance (December–February)

Winter in North Carolina isn’t exactly brutal, but we do get those surprise freezes that can wreak havoc on unprepared homes. Knowing what to do around your home when winter hits can help prevent busted pipes, sky-high heating bills, and emergency repair calls when you’d rather be enjoying the holidays.

Protect Water Lines from Freezing

Nothing ruins a winter morning faster than turning on the tap and getting… nothing. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to costly water damage.

DIY: Insulate exposed pipes in your crawl space, basement, and garage. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor water lines. On especially cold nights, let a small stream of water drip from faucets to keep your pipes from freezing.
When to call a pro: If your pipes freeze or burst, call an emergency plumber immediately to prevent further damage.

Inspect and Clean Dryer Vents

Dryer fires happen more often in winter, with the highest number occurring in January. This is usually because people rely on their dryers more in colder weather instead of air-drying clothes, and heavier fabrics like blankets and coats go through the dryer more often.

The leading cause of these fires—responsible for about 33% of all dryer-related incidents—is lint buildup from vents not being cleaned regularly. Besides being a serious fire hazard, clogged dryer vents also make your dryer work harder, reducing its efficiency and driving up your energy costs.

DIY: Remove the lint trap and vacuum inside the slot. Check the outdoor vent for blockages.
When to call a pro: If your clothes are taking longer to dry or you suspect a deep clog in the vent, a handyman or dryer vent cleaning service can help.

Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

With furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters running, the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure goes up in winter. Don’t take chances—test all of your carbon monoxide detectors and smoke detectors and replace batteries if needed. It’s recommended that these batteries be changed at least once a year.

DIY: Press the test button on each smoke and CO detector. If they’re older than 10 years, replace them.
When to call a pro: If your home isn’t equipped with CO detectors or you need hardwired units installed, an electrician can set them up. Most detectors that are hardwired or plugged into an outlet also use batteries as a backup. Make sure those batteries are installed or replaced when needed.

Check for Ice Dams and Roof Leaks

While we don’t get feet of snow here, the occasional couple of inches we get plus ice and heavy rain can still cause roof problems. One major issue is ice dams, which form when heat from your attic causes snow on the roof to melt.

As the water runs down and reaches the colder edges of the roof, it refreezes, creating a ridge of ice that traps additional melting snow. With nowhere to go, the water can back up under shingles, leading to leaks, mold, and even structural damage over time.

DIY: After storms, check your attic for signs of leaks and look for icicles forming along your roofline (a sign of poor insulation).
When to call a pro: If you notice water stains on your ceiling or suspect your attic isn’t properly insulated, a roofer or insulation specialist can help.

Replace Worn Weather Stripping Around Windows and Doors

Cold drafts make your home less comfortable and increase heating costs.

DIY: Feel around windows and doors for cold air leaks. Peel off old weather stripping and replace it with new self-adhesive strips.
When to call a pro: If your home still feels drafty, a window and door specialist can install better insulation or replace damaged frames.

Download Our Annual House Maintenance Checklist PDF for Wake County Homeowners

A little home maintenance goes a long way in preventing expensive repairs and keeping your house in top shape. Following this seasonal checklist will keep your home comfortable and efficient all year long, and limit the number of times you have to dig into those emergency savings.

If you need a reliable service professional in Raleigh or the surrounding areas, don’t wait until it’s an emergency. Stay ahead of the game by browsing our Raleigh business directory to find the best professionals for HVAC, plumbing, electrical work, and more in Wake County.

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