Because the best homes aren’t just bought — they’re cared for, season by season.
If you’ve ever felt that “where do I even start?” overwhelm when it comes to maintaining your home — you’re not alone.
From ice dams in January to clogged gutters in April, our Midwest weather doesn’t mess around.
Whether your home sits near Purdue’s bustling energy, the quiet charm of Highland Park, or the open spaces of Tippecanoe County, keeping up with seasonal maintenance is the secret to protecting your investment and preserving your home’s comfort year after year.
Here’s your go-to guide, broken down by season, local-friendly, and designed to keep your home (and peace of mind) in top shape.
🍂 Fall — Prep, Prevent & Protect
As the air turns crisp and pumpkin spice fills the air, it’s time to get your home ready for cold weather.
🧰 5 Must-Do Tasks:
Clean gutters and downspouts again after the leaves fall.
Service your furnace and replace filters.
Check insulation in attics and basements.
Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors.
Drain garden hoses and shut off exterior spigots.
💡 Aimee’s Pro Tips (Local Edition):
Pro Tip 1: Have your chimney and fireplace cleaned before first use — especially if your home’s in an older Lafayette neighborhood like Vinton.
Pro Tip 2: Stock up early on furnace filters — local stores sell out fast in October.
Pro Tip 3: Rake and bag leaves instead of mulching if you have mature trees — it helps protect grass roots from snow mold.
❄️ Winter — Maintain, Monitor & Stay Cozy
Between freezing temps and heavy snowfalls, winter in Tippecanoe County demands extra vigilance.
🧰 5 Must-Do Tasks:
Keep sidewalks and driveways clear of snow and ice.
Check for ice dams or heavy icicles forming on your roof.
Inspect pipes in unheated areas and insulate if needed.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Run ceiling fans clockwise to circulate warm air.
💡 Aimee’s Pro Tips (Local Edition):
Pro Tip 1: Open cabinet doors along exterior walls (especially kitchens and bathrooms) on freezing nights — a lifesaver against burst pipes.
Pro Tip 2: Keep a “winter home emergency kit” handy — flashlight, backup phone charger, blankets, and water.
Pro Tip 3: Check basement corners for seepage after snow melts — it’s a subtle early sign of foundation drainage issues.
🌷 Spring — Refresh, Repair & Renew
When the frost finally fades and the daffodils bloom, it’s time to give your home its well-deserved refresh.
🧰 5 Must-Do Tasks:
Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent foundation and basement leaks.
Inspect your roof for missing shingles or winter damage.
Power wash siding, driveways, and decks to clear away grime and mildew.
Service your HVAC system before AC season kicks in.
Check windows and doors for drafts or cracked seals.
💡 Aimee’s Pro Tips (Local Edition):
Pro Tip 1: With Lafayette’s heavy spring rains, make sure your sump pump is tested — and keep a backup battery handy.
Pro Tip 2: Trim back landscaping before it grows into siding or rooflines (a common spring oversight in tree-lined neighborhoods like Highland Park).
Pro Tip 3: Schedule a driveway reseal if you see cracks forming — our freeze/thaw cycles can widen them fast.
☀️ Summer — Protect, Preserve & Play
Summer in Tippecanoe County means farmers’ markets, pool days, and humidity — lots of humidity.
🧰 5 Must-Do Tasks:
Inspect decks, railings, and patios for wear and safety issues.
Clean out dryer vents and bathroom fans to prevent moisture buildup.
Check seals on windows and doors to keep cool air in and energy costs down.
Test sprinklers or irrigation systems for efficiency.
Touch up exterior paint and reseal fences to prevent UV damage.
💡 Aimee’s Pro Tips (Local Edition):
Pro Tip 1: If your home backs up to a wooded lot (like many in West Lafayette), treat your yard for ticks and mosquitoes early — Indiana summers bring both.
Pro Tip 2: Clean and reverse your ceiling fans — counterclockwise for a cooling breeze.
Pro Tip 3: Keep an eye on attic ventilation — poor airflow traps heat and can shorten your roof’s lifespan.
❤️ Final Thought
Owning a home in Lafayette, West Lafayette, or anywhere in Tippecanoe County means embracing all four seasons — and each one asks for just a little attention to keep your home thriving.
Stay ahead of the curve, and your home will reward you with fewer surprises, fewer repairs, and more comfort.
So before you scroll on, 💾 save this checklist for when you’re standing in the garage one Saturday, wondering where to start; future you will thank you.
🏠 About Aimee
Hi, I’m Aimee, a Lafayette-based Realtor serving Lafayette & West Lafayette. I help busy families upsize, downsize, and find the home that fits their next chapter, all while keeping maintenance, lifestyle, and longevity in mind.