We are so ready for Spring to get here. With that change in season, we recommend you target a few tasks to ensure your home continues to look and perform well.

1. Check the gutters. Now is the time to clean out your gutters to ensure any leaves, needles or other debris that may have collected there over the winter don’t cause issues once the spring showers start. Overflowing water can cause damage to your siding and even your foundation if left unattended.

2. Give your yard some love. Pick up any branches, cut foliage that’s grown too close to the house, and, on a dry day, break out that mower (don’t forget to refresh the oil and gas). Now is also the time to consider giving your lawn a fertilizer treatment to bring it back to life.

3. Evaluate the deck or patio. Patio season is just around the corner. Take the time to walk your outdoor patio space or deck and note any areas where repair is needed and make plans to have it fixed. Don’t forget to clean out any debris that is lodged between boards as leaving it can increase the chance of board rot.

4. Establish your gardening goals. We’re not quite to gardening season, but the weather shouldn’t stop you from planning! Now is the time to determine what you want to grow, get any seeds you need, source compost, and dream of your hands in the dirt.

5. Clean the windows. Wind and rain can really do a number on your windows. Add smudges from small hands to that and you’ve got some dirty windows. Break out your squeegee and favorite cleaning product or get on your favorite window cleaners schedule to make sure you’ll be able to appreciate crystal clear sunlight when it’s available.

6. Check your faucets. While our readers knew to cover their faucets this winter, temperatures are now staying above extended freezing temperatures so you can safely remove your faucet covers and check them to ensure all looks good. Inspect your hoses to ensure there is not cracking or damage so that they’re good to go over the summer.

7. Clean your baseboards. This thankless task is one of our least favorite, however, so are unsightly baseboards! Take time this month to clean off any dust that’s settled and shows your housekeeping skills in a less-than-stellar light. Removing excess dust can also help those who see a rise in seasonal allergies as we approach spring.