As the days get longer and warmer, there are signs of spring everywhere, from the blooming of yellow daffodils to your trees sprouting new buds. After being inside most of the winter, March is a good time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. This is also a great time for small chores to get your home in shape for the warmer months.

To help, we’ve put together some maintenance and preventative tips to do outdoors in March.

• Clear Gutters: Clean them now to avoid water damage from spring rains and costly repairs later.
• Turn on Outside Faucets: Check to ensure faucets are working properly. Test garden hose for leaks and replace if necessary.
• Clean and Sharpen Garden Tools: Maintain your tools to make trimming and pruning easier.
• Tune-up Lawn Mower: Start the spring with a clean mower and sharp cutting blades to give your grass a smoother look.
• Move Firewood: Store firewood 18 inches off the ground and at least two feet away from the house to avoid termites.
• Power Wash: Rent or borrow a power washer to clean decks, driveways and walkways. While cleaning, inspect for any damage.
• Repair Cracks in Walkways and Driveways: Fix small cracks now before they expand.
• Paint: Touch-up paint makes the house look tidy and provides a protective barrier from the weather.
• Clear AC Unit: Trim plants and shrubs around outdoor AC compressor to provide good airflow.

If you’re planning to sell your home this spring, you’ll want it to have great curb appeal. Talk to your real estate agent about any other repairs, improvements or suggestions they may have that will help to make your home picture perfect both inside and outside.