1. Start With a Full Exterior Walkaround

Before touching anything, do a slow loop of the property.

Look for:

• Cracked or shifting walkways
• Peeling paint or exposed wood
• Loose siding or missing caulking
• Grading issues (water pooling near the foundation)

Why it matters: Small issues now = leverage problems later when selling.

2. Roof & Gutters (Top Priority)

Southwestern Ontario winters are brutal on roofs.

Check for:

• Missing or lifted shingles
• Ice dam damage along eaves
• Debris-packed gutters and downspouts

Do this:

• Clear all gutters and test downspouts
• Make sure water is pushed at least 4–6 feet away from the house

Reality: Poor drainage is one of the most common causes of basement issues.

3. Foundation & Drainage

This is where expensive problems start.

Inspect:

• Hairline vs. widening foundation cracks
• Water stains or efflorescence
• Low spots around the home

Fix:

• Add soil to improve grading (slope away from house)
• Extend downspouts if needed

Goal: Keep water moving away—always.

4. Decks, Fences & Wood Structures

Snow, ice, and moisture beat up wood every winter.

Check:

• Loose boards or railings
• Rotting wood (especially where it meets the ground)
• Nail pops or structural movement

Do:

• Power wash
• Re-seal or stain if needed
• Tighten and repair anything loose

5. Windows, Doors & Seals

Temperature swings can break seals and let in moisture.

Look for:

• Cracked caulking
• Drafts
• Foggy window panes (failed seals)

Fix:

• Re-caulk where needed
• Replace weatherstripping

Bonus: Improves energy efficiency immediately.

6. Driveway & Hardscaping

Freeze-thaw causes cracks fast.

Check:

• Asphalt cracks or sinking sections
• Interlock shifting
• Trip hazards

Do:

• Seal cracks early before they spread
• Re-level problem areas if needed

7. Lawn & Landscaping Reset

Southwestern Ontario lawns take a hit after winter.

Spring basics:

• Rake out dead grass and debris
• Overseed thin areas
• Apply early fertilizer
• Edge and clean garden beds

Also:

• Trim back dead branches
• Remove anything touching the house

8. Exterior Plumbing & Fixtures

Don’t assume everything survived winter.

Check:

• Outdoor taps for leaks (turn them on slowly)
• Hose bibs and connections
• Irrigation systems (if applicable)

9. AC Unit Prep

Before the heat hits:

• Remove debris around the unit
• Replace furnace filter
• Book a quick service if it hasn’t been maintained

10. Pressure Wash = Instant Upgrade

One of the easiest wins.

Hit:

• Siding
• Walkways
• Decks and patios

Impact: Immediate curb appeal improvement for minimal cost.

11. If You’re Thinking of Selling This Year

Spring maintenance isn’t just upkeep—it’s positioning.

Buyers notice:

• Drainage issues
• Roof condition
• General exterior care

A well-maintained exterior:

• Photographs better
• Shows better
• Reduces negotiation pressure after inspection

Final Take

In Southwestern Ontario, spring maintenance comes down to three things:

Control water
Fix winter damage
Improve curb appeal

Do those well, and you protect your biggest asset—and make your life a lot easier if you decide to sell.