Spring Home Maintenance Checklist for Chicago-Area Homeowners

Why Spring Maintenance Matters in Chicago

Chicago winters are hard on homes. Freeze-thaw cycles, ice dams, heavy snow loads, and road salt all take a toll on your home's exterior, foundation, and mechanical systems. A thorough spring inspection catches winter damage early — before a small crack becomes a major repair and before a minor leak becomes mold behind drywall.

Exterior Inspection

• Roof and gutters: Walk the perimeter and look for missing or damaged shingles, sagging gutters, and signs of ice dam damage. Clean gutters and downspouts, ensuring water flows away from the foundation.
• Siding and paint: Check for peeling paint, cracked caulking, damaged siding, and gaps where moisture could enter. Winter freeze-thaw cycles widen small cracks into entry points for water and insects.
• Foundation: Look for new cracks or shifting in the foundation walls. Small cracks are normal settling; horizontal cracks or widening vertical cracks warrant professional evaluation.
• Concrete and masonry: Inspect driveways, sidewalks, steps, and patios for frost heave damage. Salt damage to concrete surfaces is especially common in the Chicago area.
• Grading and drainage: Ensure soil slopes away from the foundation. After winter settling, low spots may have formed that direct water toward your home.

Interior Checks

• Basement: Look for signs of water intrusion — stains, efflorescence on walls, musty odors, or standing water. Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit.
• HVAC: Schedule a professional service for your air conditioning system before summer demand hits. Replace furnace filters and clean vents.
• Water heater: Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup. Check the temperature setting (120°F is recommended) and inspect the anode rod if your unit is over 5 years old.
• Smoke and CO detectors: Test all detectors and replace batteries. Illinois law requires carbon monoxide detectors within 15 feet of every bedroom.

Preventive Improvements

Spring is the ideal time to schedule painting and repair projects. Touch up exterior paint to seal exposed wood before summer storms. Recaulk windows and doors. Address any drywall cracks or nail pops that appeared during winter's humidity swings. These small investments prevent costly damage and keep your home looking its best.

Need Help With Your List?

R-Deco Painting and Home Improvements can handle every item on this checklist, from painting and caulking to drywall repair and basement waterproofing. Contact us for a free consultation and let us help you get your home ready for the season ahead.