Exterior Maintenance Checklists
Gutters, roof checks, siding, drainage, and outdoor systems. Use the links below to browse by schedule or area, or scroll to the exterior task list.
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Monthly checklist
Recurring tasks every month.
ExploreSeasonal checklist
Tasks by season.
ExploreYearly checklist
Annual inspections and service.
ExploreBy system
HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roof.
ExploreBy appliance
Refrigerator, dryer, dishwasher.
ExploreBy area
Kitchen, bathroom, attic, yard.
ExploreExterior checklist
Gutters, roof, siding, drainage.
ExploreInterior checklist
HVAC, plumbing, safety devices.
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exterior tasks
How to use this page
- Use the cards above to jump to monthly, seasonal, yearly, or area-specific checklists.
- The list below shows all exterior tasks. Focus on gutters and roof seasonally.
- Leave roof work and major repairs to licensed professionals.
Exterior maintenance tasks
Inspect shingles or tiles
Looks for wear, missing pieces, or damage.
Exterior · System · Roof
Inspect flashing
Prevents leaks around joints and vents.
Exterior · System · Roof
Check for sagging
Flags structural issues early.
Exterior · System · Roof
Inspect soffits and fascia
Catches rot and pest entry points.
Exterior · System · Roof
Remove debris
Keeps water moving away from the home.
Exterior · System · Gutters & Downspouts
Inspect for sagging
Confirms gutters are pitched correctly.
Exterior · System · Gutters & Downspouts
Verify downspout drainage
Checks that water is directed away.
Exterior · System · Gutters & Downspouts
Inspect for cracks
Tracks movement and moisture intrusion.
Exterior · System · Foundation
Check grading
Ensures soil slopes away from the home.
Exterior · System · Foundation
Inspect for water pooling
Stops moisture from reaching the foundation.
Exterior · System · Foundation
Inspect for cracks or rot
Prevents water from entering the walls.
Exterior · System · Siding
Inspect seams and caulk
Maintains weather seals.
Exterior · System · Siding
Clean exterior surface
Removes dirt and reduces wear.
Exterior · System · Siding
Inspect exterior caulking
Stops drafts and moisture intrusion.
Exterior · System · Windows & Doors
Inspect weather stripping
Keeps seals tight and energy use lower.
Exterior · System · Windows & Doors
Inspect frames for rot
Catches wood damage early.
Exterior · System · Windows & Doors
Inspect hose bibs
Looks for leaks or loose fittings.
Exterior · System · Exterior Plumbing
Test outdoor faucets
Confirms shutoffs and flow after winter.
Exterior · System · Exterior Plumbing
Inspect irrigation lines
Checks for leaks and broken heads.
Exterior · System · Exterior Plumbing
Inspect exterior outlets
Confirms covers are intact and dry.
Exterior · System · Electrical (Outdoor)
Test GFCI protection
Verifies outdoor safety shutoffs.
Exterior · System · Electrical (Outdoor)
Inspect exterior lighting
Ensures fixtures are secure and functional.
Exterior · System · Electrical (Outdoor)
Clear debris around unit
Keeps outdoor equipment breathing freely.
Exterior · System · HVAC (Outdoor Unit)
Inspect fins
Looks for bent fins or blockages.
Exterior · System · HVAC (Outdoor Unit)
Check refrigerant line insulation
Helps the system run efficiently.
Exterior · System · HVAC (Outdoor Unit)
Verify unit is level
Prevents vibration and wear.
Exterior · System · HVAC (Outdoor Unit)
Inspect boards or surface
Catches rot or loose boards early.
Exterior · Area · Deck / Patio
Check railings
Ensures railings are secure and safe.
Exterior · Area · Deck / Patio
Inspect fasteners
Looks for rust or loose hardware.
Exterior · Area · Deck / Patio
Inspect for cracks
Stops small cracks from spreading.
Exterior · Area · Driveway / Walkways
Check drainage
Prevents pooling near the home.
Exterior · Area · Driveway / Walkways
Test garage door auto-reverse
Confirms safety sensors function.
Exterior · Area · Garage
Inspect tracks and rollers
Ensures smooth, quiet operation.
Exterior · Area · Garage
Lubricate moving parts
Reduces wear on hinges and rollers.
Exterior · Area · Garage
Inspect weather seals
Keeps drafts and pests out.
Exterior · Area · Garage
Trim vegetation away from home
Reduces moisture and pest risks.
Exterior · Area · Yard & Grounds
Inspect trees near structure
Catches limbs that could damage the roof.
Exterior · Area · Yard & Grounds
Check drainage after rain
Finds pooling before it reaches the foundation.
Exterior · Area · Yard & Grounds
Schedule professional roof inspection
Experts catch problems homeowners miss.
Exterior · System · Roof
Check attic ventilation
Proper ventilation extends roof life.
Exterior · System · Roof
Inspect and clean roof vents
Blocked vents cause moisture problems.
Exterior · System · Roof
Inspect gutters for rust or corrosion
Replace damaged sections before failure.
Exterior · System · Gutters & Downspouts
Check and tighten gutter hangers
Prevents sagging under water weight.
Exterior · System · Gutters & Downspouts
Inspect foundation for new cracks
Tracks movement that may need attention.
Exterior · System · Foundation
Inspect siding for damage or rot
Catches moisture intrusion before it spreads.
Exterior · System · Siding
Inspect window and door seals
Worn seals increase energy bills and drafts.
Exterior · System · Windows & Doors
FAQ
How often should I clean gutters?
At least twice a year—late spring and late fall. If you have overhanging trees, clean quarterly. Check after major storms.
Can I inspect my roof myself?
You can do ground-level inspections with binoculars and check your attic for leaks. Leave climbing on the roof to professionals with safety equipment.
What exterior tasks are DIY vs. pro?
DIY: gutter cleaning (with ladder safety), ground-level inspections, trimming shrubs. Pro: roof work, siding repairs, major drainage or foundation work.
When should I worry about foundation cracks?
Hairline cracks are common. Have a pro evaluate horizontal cracks, widening cracks, or cracks that leak. Document with photos year over year.
How do I prevent ice dams?
Keep gutters clear, improve attic insulation and ventilation, and remove snow from the lower roof edge when safe. Proper ventilation is key.