Have you made it through the six Spring maintenance tasks assigned in our last post? Don’t worry, just keep putting one foot in front of the other. Old houses (and life!) sometimes throw us curve balls. A big part of home stewardship is accepting the fact that houses are never “done”. It’s an ongoing relationship that takes work, patience and passion.
That’s my pep talk for the month! Now, let’s look at some more spring to-do’s.
7. Inspect Paint, Siding & Porches
Peeling paint and deteriorating siding expose your home’s structure to moisture and pests. Wooden porches are especially vulnerable to the elements. Touch up any problem areas and start planning for a full repaint if needed. Remember, paint isn’t just about aesthetics—it protects historic wood from rot!
8. Examine Windows & Doors
One of my favorite spring milestones is getting to open up windows and swapping out the storms for the screens (bug season will be here soon). Check for cracked glass, rotting sills, or deteriorating weatherstripping. Proper sealing helps with energy efficiency and prevents moisture from seeping in, which can lead to mold or wood rot.
9. Service Your HVAC system
Spring is the ideal time to replace air filters, clean vents, and schedule an inspection for your heating and cooling systems. Regular maintenance keeps them running efficiently and extends their lifespan.
10. Check Plumbing for Leaks
Inspect exposed pipes for any leaks or corrosion. Pay extra attention to any pipes that may have been exposed to freezing temperatures over the winter.
11. Evaluate Attic Ventilation
A poorly ventilated attic can lead to moisture buildup and mold growth. Make sure vents are clear and there are no signs of water damage from ice dams or roof leaks.
These aren’t sexy transformational makeover projects, just another season in the life of an old house!
AUTHOR KATE WOOD grew up criss-crossing the country in the family’s Volkswagen Bus, visiting house museums, battlefields, Main Streets, and national parks. Today, she is an award-winning preservationist, real estate broker and principal of the full-service historic rehabilitation consulting firm, Worth Preserving. Kate believes in the essential value of old-building stewardship to sustain community character. For her, each property is a cause and each client a fellow advocate. She specializes in matching people with properties, skilled contractors, historic tax credits and other benefits to support top-tier rehabilitation projects.
