Annual Exterior Maintenance Checklist for Indiana Homeowners

Protecting Your Home Through Every Season – A Guide from M & L Gutters

Owning a home in Indiana means facing all four seasons—and each brings unique challenges for your home’s exterior. From spring rains and summer heat to fall foliage and freezing winters, your gutters, roof, siding, and trees all take a beating year-round. That’s why M & L Gutters, your trusted contractor in Bluffton, Fort Wayne, and surrounding areas, has created this Annual Exterior Maintenance Checklist to help homeowners stay ahead of damage and keep their property in top shape.


Whether you live in the heart of Bluffton or own a home near Fort Wayne’s Aboite Township, this checklist will ensure your investment is protected—season after season.


Why Exterior Maintenance Matters in Indiana

Indiana’s weather is unpredictable. Snowstorms, thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy rains are common throughout the year. These natural elements can quickly wear down your roof, clog your gutters, damage your siding, or cause trees to become unstable. Without regular upkeep, small issues can turn into major, costly repairs.


Annual maintenance isn’t just about protection—it’s about preserving home value, improving curb appeal, preventing water damage, and reducing emergency repair costs.


Your Seasonal Home Exterior Maintenance Checklist

Here’s what Indiana homeowners should be doing throughout the year to maintain a healthy and attractive exterior.


Spring (March – May)

Spring is the ideal time to inspect your home after the freeze-thaw cycles of winter and prepare it for the stormy season ahead.

1. Clean & Inspect Gutters

  • Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
  • Check for leaks, sagging sections, and disconnected joints
  • Consider installing gutter guards to prevent spring buildup

2. Inspect Roof for Winter Damage

  • Look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
  • Check flashing around chimneys and vents
  • Schedule a professional roof inspection from M & L Gutters

3. Check Siding & Exterior Trim

  • Inspect for cracks, warping, or mold
  • Power wash to remove dirt and winter residue
  • Reseal or repaint exposed wood trim as needed

4. Tree Inspection & Trimming

  • Identify limbs that overhang the roof or power lines
  • Remove dead or damaged branches
  • Schedule tree trimming to promote safe spring growth

5. Check Concrete & Hardscape

  • Examine driveways and sidewalks for cracks or shifting
  • Seal or repair damaged concrete to prevent further erosion


Summer (June – August)

Summer is the season of heat, humidity, and thunderstorms—prime time to protect your home’s exterior.

1. Inspect for Storm Damage

  • After high winds or heavy rain, check gutters, roofs, and trees for signs of damage
  • Look for pooled water near the foundation (a sign of drainage issues)

2. Gutter & Downspout Re-Check

  • Summer storms can dislodge gutter sections or clog outlets
  • Ensure downspouts direct water at least 5 feet from the home

3. Tree Maintenance & Stump Grinding

  • Remove dead trees before they become a summer storm hazard
  • Grind stumps left behind to eliminate pest and safety risks

4. Fence, Deck & Patio Maintenance

  • Clean and stain wood decks or fences
  • Check for rot, warping, and loose nails
  • Pressure wash patios and exterior walkways

5. Siding Upkeep

  • Wash siding and look for soft spots or loose panels
  • Make necessary repairs to avoid further weather exposure

Fall (September – November)

Autumn in Indiana brings falling leaves and a chance to prepare your home for winter’s harsh conditions.

1. Clean Gutters & Install Gutter Guards

  • Remove all fall debris from gutters before the first freeze
  • Install or inspect gutter guards to prevent clogs
  • Ensure water drains properly away from the home

2. Roof & Attic Check

  • Look for signs of damage from summer storms
  • Check attic insulation and ventilation to prevent ice dams

3. Seal Cracks in Siding or Foundation

  • Use caulk or sealant to close any visible gaps
  • Prevent water intrusion before freezing temperatures arrive

4. Final Tree Pruning & Yard Clean-Up

  • Trim back overhanging limbs
  • Remove fallen branches and rake leaves
  • Schedule lot clearing if you’re planning fall construction

5. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing & Equipment

  • Disconnect hoses and drain outdoor faucets
  • Store garden tools and secure loose outdoor furniture

Winter (December – February)

While winter is a slower season for exterior maintenance, preventative action can save major headaches.

1. Monitor Gutters & Roof for Ice Dams

  • Keep an eye out for icicles and water overflow
  • Remove snow from low-slope roofs when safe

2. Watch for Storm Damage

  • After heavy snow or wind, check for loose shingles or siding
  • Keep tree limbs clear of snow and ice buildup

3. Plan Spring Maintenance Early

  • Contact M & L Gutters to get on the schedule for spring gutter cleaning, siding repair, or roofing evaluations


Bonus Tips: Year-Round Preventative Care

  • Take photos of damage when it happens—useful for insurance claims
  • Get annual inspections from professionals for roofing, gutters, and trees
  • Address small problems fast to prevent them from escalating



Need Help with Exterior Maintenance? Call M & L Gutters

From seamless gutter installation and tree trimming to storm cleanup, siding, roofing, and exterior construction—M & L Gutters is here to help you protect your Indiana home year-round.


We proudly serve:

  • Bluffton, IN
  • Fort Wayne, IN
  • Decatur, Ossian, Markle, and surrounding areas


Keep Your Home Safe, Strong, and Stunning—All Year Long

Indiana weather doesn’t wait. Start each season with confidence by following this checklist and partnering with the professionals at M & L Gutters. We’re your trusted local team for reliable exterior services—from rooftop to roots.


Let’s protect your home—one season at a time.