A Monthly Maintenance Calendar for Homeowners

Owning a home in Dayton comes with four true seasons. Each season brings its own maintenance needs, and staying ahead of them can save you time, money, and stress. Use this month-by-month maintenance calendar designed specifically with Dayton’s climate in mind to keep your home running smoothly all year long.

January – Deep Winter Prep

Dayton winters are cold, and January is often the harshest month.

• Check for drafts around windows and doors; add weather stripping as needed.
  
  
• Inspect the attic for ice dams or condensation.
  
  
• Change furnace filters and make sure heat is circulating evenly.
  
  
• Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
  
  

February – Mid-Winter Check

• Clear snow and ice from walkways and around foundation vents.
  
  
• Look for condensation on windows (a sign of humidity imbalance).
  
  
• Deep-clean dryer vents to reduce fire risk.
  
  

March – Spring Thaw

March brings freeze-thaw cycles.

• Inspect the roof for loose or missing shingles.
  
  
• Check gutters and downspouts for winter damage.
  
  
• Clean and test sump pump—Dayton’s spring rains can be heavy.
  
  

April – Spring Cleaning Season

• Power-wash siding and clean exterior windows.
  
  
• Service air conditioning before the heat arrives.
  
  
• Refresh landscaping: prune shrubs and clean flower beds.
  
  
• Check for early signs of pests emerging.
  
  

May – Outdoor Maintenance

• Plant or reseed the lawn after cold weather is gone.
  
  
• Inspect fencing and decking for rot or loose boards.
  
  
• Clean and seal concrete surfaces, including driveways and patios.
  
  

June – Early Summer Systems Check

• Clean ceiling fans and switch their direction for summer rotation.
  
  
• Flush the water heater to remove sediment buildup.
  
  
• Inspect irrigation systems or hose connections for leaks.
  
  

July – Peak Summer

• Monitor the HVAC system; Dayton humidity can strain AC units.
  
  
• Trim tree branches away from the house and power lines.
  
  
• Check exterior paint for cracking or peeling.
  
  

August – Late Summer Storm Season

• Inspect gutters again—summer storms can push debris into them.
  
  
• Ensure outdoor drainage is flowing away from the home.
  
  
• Test your smoke detectors during grill season.
  
  

September – Pre-Fall Prep

• Clean and store summer equipment.
  
  
• Aerate and overseed the lawn.
  
  
• Check weather stripping before temps drop.
  
  

October – Fall Tune-Ups

• Service the furnace before winter begins.
  
  
• Clean gutters after leaves fall—crucial for Dayton’s tree-rich neighborhoods.
  
  
• Inspect the chimney and fireplace.
  
  

November – Winterization

• Shut off and drain outdoor faucets.
  
  
• Check insulation in attics and basements.
  
  
• Prepare snow blowers and stock up on salt.
  
  

December – End-of-Year Safety Check

• Inspect holiday lights for wear or damage.
  
  
• Check GFCI outlets to ensure they trip properly.
  
  
• Do a whole-home walkthrough to note any projects for the coming year.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Staying ahead of home maintenance doesn’t just prevent costly repairs—it also helps keep your home comfortable and efficient through every season. With this month-by-month calendar, you can build a simple routine that protects your biggest investment year-round.