Home Maintenance in Iowa: Tackling February and March with Confidence

Living in Iowa means embracing the full spectrum of Midwest weather—bitter February cold, unpredictable March thaws, and everything in between. As we sit here on February 25, 2025, the tail end of winter is giving way to the promise of spring (with extra warm days this week!!), making it a critical time for homeowners to stay proactive with maintenance. These late winter and early transitional months are perfect for preparing your home for warmer days while addressing the wear and tear of Iowa’s harsh winter.

Here’s your guide to keeping your property in top shape during February and March.

February: Battling the Last of Winter

February in Iowa often feels like winter’s final stand—sub-zero wind chills, snow drifts, and ice are still in play. Your home has been through months of this, so now’s the time to check its defenses.

🏡 Inspect Your Roof and Gutters 

Heavy snow and ice can wreak havoc on your roof. Grab a pair of binoculars (stay off icy ladders!) and scan for loose shingles, ice dams, or clogged gutters. Ice dams—where melting snow refreezes at the roof’s edge—can force water under shingles, leading to leaks. If you spot trouble, call a pro to clear it safely. Clean gutters now if you can, or mark it for March when the ice melts.

♨️ Check Heating Systems 

Your furnace has been working overtime. Replace or clean the filter to keep it efficient, and listen for odd noises that might signal a needed tune-up. Bleeding radiators or checking baseboard heaters ensures even warmth as February lingers.

💨 Seal Drafts 

Iowa’s wind cuts like a knife this time of year. Feel around windows and doors for drafts, and reapply weatherstripping or caulk where seals have worn thin. It’s a cheap fix that keeps heat in and energy bills down.

☑️ Monitor Indoor Humidity 

Dry winter air can crack woodwork and irritate sinuses. Aim for 30–40% humidity with a humidifier—too much higher, and you risk condensation on cold windows, which can lead to mold. A hygrometer (about $10) keeps you in the sweet spot.

March: Prepping for the Thaw

March in Iowa is a wild card—some days feel like spring, others like winter’s encore. As snow melts and rains begin, your focus shifts to transition prep.

💧Assess Foundation Drainage

Melting snow and early spring rains can pool around your foundation if drainage isn’t right. Walk your property after a thaw and look for standing water near the base. Extend downspouts or regrade soil to direct water at least 5 feet away—basement flooding is a headache you don’t need.

🗑 Clean Up Winter Debris  

Broken branches, salt residue, and wind-blown junk pile up by March. Clear your yard and driveway to prevent damage to emerging grass or your mower later. Sweep salt off concrete to avoid pitting—Iowa’s road salt is tough on surfaces.

💨 Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With furnaces still running and windows often closed, March is a smart time to test detectors. Replace batteries if needed—daylight savings (March 9 in 2025) is a handy reminder.

👀 Start Exterior Inspections  

As temps creep up, check siding, paint, and brick for winter damage. Freeze-thaw cycles can crack masonry or peel paint. Note repairs for April, but if you’re selling soon, addressing these now boosts curb appeal for spring buyers.

🚨Why It Matters in Iowa

Iowa’s climate doesn’t mess around—February’s deep freeze and March’s muddy thaw test every home. Staying ahead of maintenance prevents costly repairs (think $5,000+ for a flooded basement) and keeps your property market-ready if you’re eyeing a spring sale. Buyers here notice neglect—cracked concrete or a soggy yard can tank offers fast.

Quick Tips for Both Months

Stock Up: Keep sand (way better for your concrete than sale), a shovel, and ice melt handy—March can still surprise you with a late snow.  

Pipes: Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas; a $20 fix beats a burst pipe.  

Energy Check: MidAmerican Energy offers free home energy audits—schedule one to spot inefficiencies.

February and March are your bridge from winter survival to spring renewal. Tackle these tasks now, and your Iowa home will thank you with fewer headaches and a stronger resale value. Got a specific maintenance question? Drop it below—I’m here to help!

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