Home Maintenance Costs to Consider as a Maine Homeowner

When you are a homeowner in the state of Maine, there are many factors you need to consider that will require maintenance throughout the year. These are important costs to factor into your annual budget, especially in areas like Greater Portland, where seasonal changes can be dramatic. Here are some home maintenance tips you’ll want to keep in mind:

Exterior Wood Siding and Trim

Keep an eye on wood trim and siding on the exterior of your home. You’ll want to check for rot regularly and replace or repair any damaged areas with new wood—or even better, a composite material. When you do replace with wood, be sure to stay on top of painting so it’s not peeling or chipping.

Cleaning the Gutters

You’ll want to clear out your gutters every fall and spring to make sure rain can flow freely and doesn’t get clogged, preventing the gutters from doing their job.

Deck & Porch Maintenance

If you find rotting floorboards in your deck or porch, you’ll need to replace them. If your deck or porch is painted, stay on top of repainting so it doesn’t start peeling or flaking. Composite decking is ideal in Maine to prevent rot and reduce maintenance, just hose off your deck and porches as needed. You’ll also want to check any handrails to ensure they are secure and not wiggling or loose.

Vinyl Siding

If your home is sided with vinyl, use a pressure washer in the spring to clean off winter debris. You can hose off the exterior of your windows and screens at the same time.

Lawn & Garden Care

Lawn maintenance, including mowing and seeding, is necessary throughout the spring, summer, and fall in Maine. Garden care is also needed throughout the season and will vary depending on your lot and the types of plants you have.

Shrub Maintenance

Any shrubs that grow close to your home should be trimmed so they do not come into contact with the siding, foundation, or windows.

Snow Removal & Salting

You’ll need to plan for snow removal in the winter. Options include having a vehicle with a plow, hiring someone to plow your driveway, or using a snowblower—this requires buying the equipment and doing the work yourself. If your driveway is smaller, you may also be able to hire someone to snowblow. Shoveling is the least expensive option but can be physically demanding. In addition to snow removal, don’t forget to salt and sand your driveway and walkways when ice is present—even if there’s no snow.

Tree Maintenance

Trees require limbing of dead branches so they don’t fall during the winter or storms. If there are trees overhanging your roof, keep them trimmed back to extend the life of your shingles.

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