Freeze-thaw cycles, ice dams and months of snow load leave marks that are easy to miss. A couple of hours in early spring catches small problems before summer storms turn them into expensive ones.
Outside the house
Roof and gutters
From the ground, look for missing or lifted shingles and damaged flashing around chimneys and vents. Clear gutters and make sure every downspout discharges at least four feet from the foundation.
- Scan the roof for missing or lifted shingles
- Clear gutters and downspouts
- Extend downspouts away from the foundation
- Check flashing at chimneys and vents
Grading and foundation
Soil should slope away from the house. Fill low spots where water collects, and look for new cracks in the foundation wall.
Inside the house
Sump pump and basement
Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and confirm the pump starts, drains and shuts off. Check the basement for damp spots or efflorescence after the first heavy rain.
- Test the sump pump
- Check the basement after heavy rain
- Replace the furnace filter
- Schedule AC service before the first hot week
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