Home Care Challenge: The Never-Ending To-Do List of Homeownership
Mini-Home Inspection.
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“Why am I doing this to myself?” – Every homeowner, mid-project.
We’ve been in the thick of meeting with contractors lately for some home projects, and let me just say—it’s been a lot. The kind of “a lot” where you feel like you’ve added a part-time job to your already full plate.
If you own a home, you probably know the feeling: there’s always something that needs attention. I usually have a general idea of what I want done… but turning that into a clear vision? That’s a different story. Add in researching different professionals, collecting quotes, figuring out what’s urgent and what can wait (or what you might be okay living with for a while), and suddenly the mental load is real.
In the middle of all of this, I had a moment where I looked around and thought: Why am I doing this to myself?
But deep down, I know why. We want this house to feel like a home. And part of that means staying on top of the little things—even when they feel like a hassle. So this week, we’re shifting focus to something practical but surprisingly satisfying: a seasonal mini home inspection.
Not the most glamorous topic, but hear me out.
These little check-ins around the house can help catch issues early, before they spiral into major (and expensive) repairs. They also help you stay connected to your space and protect your investment—something I’m learning matters more than I expected.
Why a Mini Home Inspection Matters
As we transition into warmer months, it’s the perfect time to do a quick once-over on key parts of your home. Winter can leave behind a few surprises—like subtle damage, shifting materials, or wear and tear that wasn’t visible a few months ago.
Last year, I was cleaning our baseboards when I noticed one section felt… soft. Not a great sign. After doing a little digging (a.k.a. crawling around inside and outside the house), I discovered the underside of one of our windows hadn’t been properly caulked. Water had gotten in, damaged the baseboard, and caused that softness. Thankfully, caulking the window and replacing the baseboard was a simple fix—but it could’ve been a much bigger problem if I’d ignored it.
That’s the thing: these inspections don’t need to be complicated. Just be observant, take notes, and know when to call in the pros. Here’s what we’re looking at this season:
Checking for Missing Shingles
Your roof is your home’s first layer of protection against the elements. Even a single missing shingle can lead to leaks or water damage.
What to do: Start by visually inspecting your roof from the ground using binoculars or a ladder if you feel comfortable. Look for any shingles that are missing, cracked, or curled. Pay special attention to areas around chimneys, vents, and the edges of the roof.
Quick fix: If you notice a few missing or damaged shingles, you can often replace them yourself. Carefully remove the damaged shingle and any nails, then slide a new shingle into place and secure it with roofing nails. For extensive damage, or if you’re unsure about tackling the repair yourself, it’s best to contact a professional roofer to assess and fix the issue.
Scanning for Exterior Damage
Cold temps and winter storms can be rough on siding, foundations, and gutters.
What to do: Walk around your home and examine the siding, foundation, and gutters. Look for cracks, holes, or signs of water damage. Check the paint for peeling or blistering, which can indicate underlying moisture issues.
Quick fix: Small cracks in the siding or foundation can often be repaired with caulk or sealant. For significant damage, such as large cracks in the foundation or extensive siding issues, it’s wise to consult a professional contractor who can provide the necessary repairs.
Inspecting Window Screens & Locks
Spring is a great time to prep for open-window weather—and make sure your home stays secure.
What to do: Check screens for holes or tears. Test every window lock. Look for rotting or warped frames.
Quick fix: Patch screen holes with a kit or replace as needed. Replace faulty locks with basic hardware-store parts. Structural damage might require a pro.
Dealing With Squeaky Doors
This one’s simple but so satisfying.
What to do: Walk around your house opening and closing doors.
Qucik fix: If your door squeaks when opening or closing, spray a bit of WD-40 directly on the hinge. Open and close the door a few times to work it in.
Bonus tip: Keep a rag handy to wipe up excess. And enjoy that newfound silence.
Wrapping It Up
These quick checks don’t have to be overwhelming—but they really can make a difference. Set aside an hour or two, throw on a podcast, and treat it like a walk-and-inspect session.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll still have a running list of future projects, contractor calls, and small fixes (hi, curtain holes 👋). But getting ahead of the seasonal wear-and-tear feels good. Like the home version of crossing something off your to-do list.
Happy inspecting!
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