The short answer
Four short sessions a year prevent almost every expensive home failure: spring for the roof and gutters, summer for HVAC and exterior, autumn for heating and drafts, winter for pipes and detectors.
Home maintenance is not one big job. It is roughly two hours per season, and skipping it is what turns a $40 fix into a $4,000 one.
Step by step
- Spring: clear gutters, check roof flashing, test the sump pump, service the AC filter.
- Summer: wash and inspect siding, reseal the deck, trim branches away from the roof.
- Autumn: service the furnace, bleed radiators, seal drafts, drain outdoor taps.
- Winter: test smoke and CO detectors, check for frozen pipe risk, run bathroom fans.
- Every month: check under sinks for leaks and run water in unused drains.
What it costs
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Furnace service | $90–$180 / year |
| Gutter clearing (DIY) | $0 + a $30 scoop |
| Gutter clearing (hired) | $120–$250 |
| Detector batteries | $15 / year |
| Pipe insulation | $1–$3 per foot |
Common questions
How long does a full seasonal pass take?
Two to three hours if nothing needs repair.
What is the highest-value item?
Gutters. Water damage is the most expensive common home failure.
Dryer vents really?
Yes — lint buildup is a leading cause of house fires and it kills drying efficiency.