At the start of the new year, we all make resolutions to take care of our health, our finances, our day-to-day life.
But what about taking care of your house? Just like self care, when it comes to maintaining your home a little proactive care can go a long way. By tackling small projects each month, you can save money, prevent costly repairs, and create a more comfortable living space. Our month-by-month guide will help you start 2025 off right by prioritizing the DIY repairs and upgrades that pay off.
Resolve to cross these projects off your list each month.
January: Draft Defense
Drafts can make your home uncomfortable and drive up heating bills. Start the year by protecting your home from winter chills.
• Seal Gaps: Check for cracks and gaps around doors and windows and use weatherstripping to seal them up so warm air stays in and cold air stays out.
• Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes with tubular foam insulation to prevent freezing and reduce energy loss.
• Inspect Your Attic: A well-insulated attic can reduce energy costs and improve comfort. Add insulation and seal gaps to keep the temperatures in your home more even.
•Install Window Film: Apply window film to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency.
February: Brighten Up
February is a short month—and a great time for small projects that increase comfort and efficiency.
• Insulate the Water Heater: Wrap your water heater with an insulating blanket to minimize heat loss.
• Replace Furnace Filters: Clean or replace filters to keep your heating system running efficiently.
• Upgrade Lighting: Swap out old light bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs.
• Check Outlets: Add foam outlet and switch sealers to outlets and light switches on exterior walls to block drafts.
March: Water Watch
With spring rains around the corner, it’s time to get your home ready to handle all that water headed your way.
• Fix Leaks: Inspect and repair leaky faucets, pipes, and toilets to conserve water and lower utility bills
• Clean Gutters: Remove debris to prevent clogs and keep water flowing, then add gutter guards to keep them clear.
• Install a Rain Barrel: Add a rain barrel to collect rainwater for use in your yard and garden. It’s an eco-friendly way to reduce your water and storm water runoff.
April: Spring Spruce-Up
As the weather warms, give your home’s exterior some TLC.
• Caulk Exterior Cracks: Seal cracks in siding, brick, and around windows to prevent water leaks and energy loss.
• Inspect Roofing: Look for damaged shingles or flashing and make necessary repairs to prevent leaks.
• Power Wash: Clean your home’s exterior to remove dirt and mildew.
• Get Windows Ready: Remove window film and give your windows and screens a good spring cleaning.
May: Outdoor Refresh
Get your outdoor spaces ready for summer with these easy updates.
• Garden Beds: Build or repair raised garden beds to grow flowers or vegetables.
• Outdoor Lighting: Install solar-powered or low-voltage lights along pathways and in outdoor seating areas.
• Repair Screens: Fix or replace torn window and door screens to keep bugs out. If screens are beyond repair, adjustable window screens let you enjoy fresh air without the expense of replacement screens.
June: Summer Savings
Prep your home to beat the heat and save on cooling costs.
• Ceiling Fans: Make sure ceiling fans are set to spin counterclockwise to improve airflow and cut back on air conditioning costs.
• HVAC Maintenance: Replace air filters and clean vents to keep your cooling system running efficiently. You may want to add heat and air deflectors to vent covers to direct air conditioned air up towards the ceiling for improved cooling.
• Smart Thermostats: Upgrade to a smart thermostat to better control your home’s temperature and save energy.
July: Safety First
Make this the month you focus on home safety.
• Smoke Detectors: Test and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Security Measures: Install motion-sensor lighting or security cameras to deter intruders.
• Deck Inspections: Check the deck for loose boards, rusted nails, or structural issues and make necessary repairs.
August: Focus on Windows and Doors
August heat may be scorching, but cooler days are coming. Prepare for cold weather by improving the insulation of your windows and doors.
• Add Weather Stripping: Ensure all doors and windows have adequate weatherstripping to prevent drafts.
• Install Door Sweeps: Attach a door sweep to the bottom of exterior doors to block drafts and pests.
• Inspect Door Thresholds: Check the threshold on exterior doors and replace if needed.
September: Fall Fixes
As summer fades, prepare your home for cooler weather.
• Seal Cracks: Inspect your driveway and walkways for cracks and seal them to protect them from ice when temperatures freeze.
• Chimney Maintenance: Hire a professional to prepare your chimney for fireplace season.
Check Garage Doors: Make sure the garage door is balanced, and inspect the door bottom that keeps out water and pests; if it’s torn or worn, replace it.
• Tool Organization: Clean and organize your tools and supplies to prepare for winter.
October: Winter Prep
Get ahead of winter by tackling these essential tasks.
• Outdoor Storage: Clean and store outdoor furniture, grills, and hoses, and cover the air conditioner so it’s protected from the elements.
• Protect Pipes: Shut off the water to outdoor spigots and add a faucet cover to prevent them from freezing.
• Furnace Service: Schedule a professional tune-up to get your furnace ready for colder months.
• Prep the Roof: Install heat cables to stop ice dams from forming on your roof.
November: Cozy Comforts
Prepare your home to stay warm and cozy as temperatures drop.
• Add Insulation: Focus on areas like basements, crawl spaces, or garages where heat may escape.
• Windows: Install window film on drafty windows to add an extra layer of insulation.
• Draft Stoppers: Add draft stoppers to doors and windows for extra insulation.
December: Deck Your Halls
Wrap up the year with some simple DIYs.
• Holiday Lights: Inspect and repair holiday decorations to make sure they’re safe to use.
• Smart Thermostats: Upgrade to a smart thermostat to optimize heating schedules and reduce energy waste.
• Seal Basement Air Leaks: Use spray foam or caulk to seal gaps around pipes and vents in the basement to keep warm air in. Check ductwork for air leaks and wrap with duct insulation if needed.
