March into spring with peace of mind.
March into spring with peace of mind.
March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. It’s a month of transition: snow begins to melt, rain picks up, and the ground stays saturated. This is when your home starts to reveal the effects of a long winter.
As we welcome the promise of milder days, this is the time to be proactive. Act early and nip small issues in the bud before they become larger problems, especially during the spring thaw. Addressing them early helps prevent water damage and protects your home from larger, more costly problems down the road.
At McGlynn Insurance Advocates, we believe preparation is protection. Our spring home maintenance checklist is designed to help you get ahead of seasonal risks and step into spring with confidence.
Your spring home maintenance checklist
Thoughtful spring home maintenance helps you get ahead of seasonal risks and avoidable damage, protecting what matters most.
1. Check the roof and gutters
March rain and snow needs somewhere to go. Add to that winter ice and wind and you can end up with loose shingles and clogged gutters.
- Look for missing or lifted shingles
- Clear gutters and downspouts
- Ensure water drains several feet away from your foundation
Even small drainage issues can lead to water damage if ignored.
2. Prepare for snowmelt and basement flooding
Spring thaw often causes basement flooding. Melting snow combined with rain and saturated soil can overwhelm a home’s drainage and may not be covered by insurance. Here are some good prevention tips.
- Test your sump pump.
- Check foundation walls for cracks and move snow away from the foundation.
- As melting happens, remove the snow from your roof to prevent ice dams. And don’t forget to do the same on your deck or porch!
- Extend downspouts away from the home.
- Ensure grading slopes away from your foundation.
- Locate your water shut-off valve and make sure it’s accessible. Quick access can prevent a small leak from becoming major water damage.
3. Look for leaky pipes
Temperature swings in early spring stress plumbing. Small cracks or loose fittings may start to drip, causing leaky pipes.
Unchecked, these leaks can damage drywall, weaken flooring, and allow mold to grow. Acting now can save you from costly repairs later.
- Check for dampness under sinks.
- Inspect exposed basement pipes and drywall/flooring/ceiling for any damage, including but not limited to being soft, damp, or soggy.
- Look for water stains on the ceiling.
- Peek in the attic for signs of water.
4. Inspect the exterior
Walk around your property to check for winter wear and tear. Routine checks keep small issues from turning into larger problems during spring thaw storms.
- Trim overhanging branches
- Inspect decks and railings
- Secure loose siding or shutters
- Clear gutters
March into spring with peace of mind. Take care of the small issues that winter left behind and keep your home safe through the spring thaw. Before long, your home will be ready to welcome another beautiful spring.
If you ever have questions about protecting your home, we’re always here for you.
Protect your home this spring
Call McGlynn Insurance Advocates to make sure your coverage includes water damage, basement flooding, and leaky pipes — we’ve got you covered.