Caring for Your Custom Home After Construction

Your new Woodcraft Homes custom home is a reflection of careful planning, craftsmanship, and pride. But like any fine investment, it requires regular care to maintain its value and performance. With a proactive maintenance routine, you can keep your home looking beautiful and functioning efficiently for years to come.

Routine Maintenance Made Simple

We recommend organizing tasks by frequency:

Monthly

• Clean range hood filters to maintain proper air quality and exhaust efficiency.
• Run your garbage disposal with ice and citrus to freshen and clear residue.
• Test GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Inspect under sinks and around toilets for signs of leaks.

Quarterly

• Replace HVAC filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency.
• Clean AC condenser coils to improve cooling performance.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries as needed.
• Inspect basements for moisture, particularly in Central Wisconsin’s variable climate.

Semi-Annual Maintenance

Spring and Fall are ideal for deeper inspections and seasonal transitions:

• Deep clean the entire home, including vacuuming refrigerator coils to extend appliance life.
• Clean dryer vents and exhaust ducts to prevent fire hazards.
• Check and reapply caulking and sealants around windows and doors.
• Schedule professional HVAC tune-ups to ensure efficiency before periods of high demand.

Annual Maintenance

These tasks help protect your home from Central Wisconsin’s seasonal extremes:

 

• Spring:
  • Inspect grading and exterior drainage to ensure water flows away from the foundation.
  • Check for foundation cracks or moisture intrusion.
  • Service your air conditioning system before summer heat hits.
  • Clean and inspect window screens; repair or replace as needed.
  • Wash windows and check for damaged seals or condensation between panes.
  • Examine deck boards and railings for wear, rot, or loose fasteners.
  • Look for signs of pest activity in attics, basements, and garages.

 

• Summer:
  • Inspect and seal driveway cracks to prevent water infiltration and freeze-thaw damage come winter.
  • Trim trees and shrubs away from siding and roofing to reduce moisture buildup and pest access.
  • Power wash siding, decks, and walkways to remove mold, mildew, and grime.
  • Inspect windows and doors for drafts and re-caulk or weatherstrip as needed to improve energy efficiency.
  • Clean ceiling fans and reverse their direction for proper air circulation during warm weather.
  • Maintain landscaping by ensuring irrigation systems are functioning properly and watering schedules are optimized for summer heat.
  • Examine exterior caulking, paint, and stain to protect against weathering.
  • Test your sump pump system after summer storms to ensure it’s working properly.

 

• Fall:
  • Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris to prevent ice dams and water infiltration.
  • Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles.
  • Drain and store garden hoses; shut off exterior faucets to avoid burst pipes.
  • Seal foundation gaps to keep mice and pests from entering as they seek warmth.
  • Schedule chimney cleaning and fireplace inspection before first use.
  • Service your furnace to ensure safe and efficient operation throughout winter.
  • Check exterior lighting and motion sensors for safety and visibility during darker months.

 

• Winter:
  • Monitor attic for ice dam formation—look for signs of water staining or icicles forming along roof edges.
  • Do not let your home temperature go lower than manufacturer recommendations for flooring and other products.
  • Keep snow cleared away from foundation walls, basement windows, and vents to avoid moisture intrusion and blocked airflow.
  • Check indoor humidity levels and use a humidifier or dehumidifier as needed to maintain healthy air quality and prevent condensation on windows.
  • Change furnace filters more frequently during peak use (every 1–2 months).
  • Inspect weatherstripping and door sweeps to reduce drafts and conserve heat.
  • Test backup generators and ensure they’re fueled and functioning in case of power outages.
  • Clear exhaust vents for your dryer, furnace, and water heater regularly to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Long-Term Preservation

Plan for larger maintenance items every few years, such as repainting trim, resealing stonework, and inspecting attic and crawl spaces for moisture or pests. These proactive steps extend your home’s life and preserve its beauty.

Our Continued Commitment

Even after construction, we’re here as your partner. Our team is always available to provide guidance, recommend trusted service professionals, or help you with long-term planning. With the right care, your custom home by Woodcraft Homes will remain a lasting source of pride and comfort for generations.