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May Home Exterior Checklist for Minnesota Homeowners: Prepare for Summer with These Smart Upgrades

As May arrives in Minnesota, the snow has melted, flowers are blooming, and the long-awaited warm weather is finally here. For homeowners, it’s the perfect time to step outside and evaluate the condition of your home’s exterior after a long, harsh winter. From damaged roofing to worn-out siding, spring is the ideal time to tackle maintenance projects that boost curb appeal, improve energy efficiency, and protect your property from future storms.

At Midwest Exteriors MN, we’ve served homeowners throughout Minnesota for over 30 years with professional roofing, siding, windows, and gutter solutions. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the most important exterior home projects to focus on this May—and why now is the best time to take action.

Why May Is a Prime Month for Exterior Projects in Minnesota

Minnesota weather can be unpredictable, but May typically offers:

Mild temperatures ideal for construction work
Longer daylight hours to complete projects efficiently
Early access to contractors before the busy summer season
Time to prepare for summer storms and heavy rains

By getting ahead of repairs and upgrades now, you’ll avoid the rush and enjoy peace of mind all season long.

1. Inspect and Replace Storm-Damaged Roofing

Winter in Minnesota is hard on roofs. Ice dams, snow buildup, hail, and fluctuating temperatures can all weaken shingles, flashing, and seals. May is the time to schedule a professional roof inspection to check for damage before summer storms arrive.

Signs you may need a roof replacement or repair:

Missing or curling shingles
Water stains on ceilings or in the attic
Granule loss in gutters
Soft or sagging spots on the roof

A new roof isn’t just functional—it adds curb appeal and resale value. In fact, a roof replacement can deliver a 68% ROI, according to industry studies. Plus, it gives buyers peace of mind if you plan to sell in the near future.

👉 Tip: Midwest Exteriors MN offers free storm damage inspections and can assist with insurance claims for wind or hail damage.

2. Upgrade Your Siding for Style, Strength & Efficiency

Siding is one of the most visible features of your home’s exterior. If yours is cracked, faded, or warped, it could be time for an upgrade. Not only does new siding dramatically improve your home’s appearance, but it also:

Increases insulation and energy efficiency
Reduces maintenance costs
Protects your structure from moisture and pests

Popular siding materials for Minnesota homes in 2025:

Insulated vinyl siding – Budget-friendly and energy-efficient
Fiber cement siding – Durable and resistant to rot and fire
Engineered wood – Offers the look of wood with more durability

With new siding, you could see a 75–80% return on investment, making it one of the top exterior upgrades for homeowners.

3. Clean and Repair Gutters Before Rainy Season

Gutters may not be glamorous, but they are essential for protecting your home’s foundation and roof. Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to basement leaks, mold growth, and costly structural issues.

In May, check for:

Loose or sagging gutters
Leaks at seams and downspouts
Debris buildup from fall and winter
Signs of overflow or water pooling near the foundation

Installing gutter guards or replacing old systems with seamless gutters can prevent future clogs and reduce maintenance.

👉 Bonus: Ask Midwest Exteriors MN about gutter upgrades that match your roofing and siding for a seamless look.

4. Window Replacement for Energy Efficiency & Comfort

If your windows are drafty, hard to open, or showing signs of fog between panes, it’s time to consider a window upgrade. New windows not only improve comfort and energy efficiency, but they also:

Reduce cooling costs in the summer
Block UV rays that fade furniture
Boost curb appeal with clean, modern frames

Energy-efficient windows with ENERGY STAR® ratings are especially valuable in Minnesota’s climate. They reduce heating and cooling costs year-round and can offer a 70–75% ROI at resale.

👉 Pro Tip: Large windows that bring in natural light are especially desirable to buyers and make interiors feel more spacious and inviting.

5. Touch Up Paint, Trim & Exterior Hardware

Before the summer rush begins, take a weekend in May to tackle small but high-impact updates, such as:

Repainting trim and shutters
Replacing house numbers, mailbox, and light fixtures
Power washing your home’s exterior
Sealing cracks or gaps around doors and windows

These affordable updates show pride in ownership and can greatly enhance first impressions—especially if you’re planning to sell.

6. Prepare Your Exterior for Summer Storms

Minnesota summers can bring severe thunderstorms, wind, and hail. May is an ideal month to make preventative upgrades that will storm-proof your home:

Install impact-resistant shingles or roofing
Secure loose siding or trim
Upgrade to storm-resistant windows and doors
Trim trees or remove dead branches near your roof

Midwest Exteriors MN offers storm-readiness consultations to help you make smart investments that can withstand whatever the season throws at you.

7. Plan Landscaping Around Home Protection

Your landscaping isn’t just for looks—it plays a role in keeping your home’s exterior in good condition. In May, add these maintenance tasks to your to-do list:

Grade soil away from the foundation to prevent water pooling
Install mulch to retain moisture and reduce erosion
Trim shrubs and trees to keep them from rubbing against siding or gutters
Clean up debris that can trap moisture against your home

Proper landscaping supports the longevity of your exterior features and enhances your home’s visual appeal.

8. Schedule Exterior Projects Before Contractor Schedules Fill Up

By late June and July, contractor schedules throughout Minnesota tend to become quite busy. May is your best chance to:

Secure a timely project start date
Take advantage of spring pricing or promotions
Beat the heat for labor-intensive projects like roofing and siding
Ensure your home is ready for summer storms and visitors

When you work with Midwest Exteriors MN, you benefit from local expertise, fast response times, and professional workmanship that’s earned us a reputation for reliability.

Why Homeowners Choose Midwest Exteriors MN

We know Minnesota weather. For more than 30 years, Midwest Exteriors MN has helped homeowners prepare, protect, and improve their homes with high-quality exterior services.

We specialize in:

Roofing inspections and replacements
Siding installation and upgrades
Energy-efficient window replacements
Gutter system repairs and protection

Our team provides free estimates, honest advice, and professional craftsmanship backed by industry-leading warranties.

Ready to Get Started This May?

Don’t wait until summer is in full swing. May is the perfect time to take control of your exterior maintenance and upgrades—and increase your home’s value, beauty, and protection for the months ahead.

Contact Midwest Exteriors MN today to schedule your free consultation and inspection. Whether you’re preparing to sell, upgrading your forever home, or recovering from winter storm damage, we’re here to help you make the smartest investments.