March home maintenance

As the weather turns, walk around the outside of the house with a notebook. Spring is when winter damage shows and contractors' calendars are still open.

Inside

• Change the furnace filter
• Check the basement or crawl space for water after thaw and rain
• Test the sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit
• Check window screens before you need them

Outside

• Walk the roofline from the ground with binoculars for missing or curled shingles
• Clean gutters and make sure downspouts carry water 4 to 6 feet from the foundation
• Look for cracks in the foundation and gaps where pipes enter the house
• Check that the soil slopes away from the house

Cold-winter homes (North, Midwest, mountains)

• Wait until frosts are over to reconnect hoses
• Look for damage from snow plows or shoveling along walks and lawn edges

Warm-climate homes (South, Southwest, coastal California)

• Schedule the AC tune-up now if you didn't in January
• Check irrigation for broken heads before the dry season

General maintenance information. Follow your equipment manuals and local codes, and hire licensed professionals for gas, electrical, roofing and other hazardous work. Home Maintenance Kings isn't paid by any brand or contractor.