Here is a month-by-month look at home-maintenance projects that will save you money in the long run.
First up: January, when you should check your air filters and plumbing. Click through the images at right to see tips for the rest of the year, or read them below.
January: Check the air filter on your heating system monthly and clean or replace as necessary. Open and close cutoff valves to sinks and toilets, to be sure they're working properly.
February: Clean lint from dryer ducts. Be sure flexible exhaust pipe behind dryer isn't pinched. Consider replacing plastic pipe with metallic. Be sure exterior vent flap closes properly.
March: Repair, clean and seal wood deck at least every other year. Replace damaged or twisted boards. Deck stains with pigment last longer than clear sealers.
April: Your asphalt roof should last 20 years - if you don't ignore it. Clean leaves from roof valleys. Wash mildew and moss from shingles. Use prepared cleaner or mix your own.
May: Scrape and touch up spots where paint fails most often, allowing water to penetrate. Check window sills and gable vents, especially on western and southern sides.
June: Clean refrigerator and freezer coils. Check for leaks behind dishwasher toe panel. Replace cracked washing machine hoses. Clean filters then reattach hoses.
July: Be sure air conditioner's condensation drip tubes are flowing freely. Clogs can damage your system and the rest of your house.
August: If you smell a musty odor, check ducts for leaks. Your air conditioner could be overworking and pumping in unhealthy air. Repair leaks with mastic, not duct tape.
September: Caulk around windows and doors with caulk that's paintable. Be sure weep holes in storm windows are open to allow water to escape. Clogged weep holes can cause rotted sills.
October: Check gutters. Clogs can cause all sorts of water damage, from rotted fascia to moisture in the crawl space. Use hose to be sure downspouts are flowing freely.
November: Seal holes in foundation, especially spots around pipes and wires where rodents might enter.
December: Check windows and attic for condensation. Reduce water vapor by using bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans and limiting use of vent-free gas logs.
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It’s a weekly chore this time of year, but mowing doesn’t have to mean a dull up-and-back. David Mellor, director of grounds for the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park, recently told the Wall Street Journal’s Developments blog (which is usually about the real estate business) how big leaguers create art in their summer lawns. In addition to writing a couple of books on the subject, Mellor has created swirls, stars, circles, baseballs and his team’s iconic socks in Fenway fescue. Here are three of his top tips for striping: 
The lemon beebalm or purple horsemint has been incredible this spring. 
Those snobs who say there’s no reason not to have a good-looking, pulled-together home are just plain wrong – and irritating. I know plenty of reasons. 
I am not sure what to do with this small room that is just off the front entrance and staircase to our second floor. There is a hallway to the living room and the dining room is on the other side of it. This is an empty room, and we would love to make it a cozy library sitting room or maybe you have a suggestion to help make this a beautiful focal point. I am looking for a classy, rich and elegant look. I can change the room color if needed. I have a neutral eggshell color in the halls and goldish yellow in the dining room. 
When Stephen and Christine Stager were married, one rose bush was planted by the mailbox. Christine’s brother wondered whether his sister’s new husband was going to plant a rose garden. “I never promised her a rose garden,” Stephen Stager said. 
For such sweet-looking things, hanging baskets can be demanding divas. Restricted to small pots and hung in the drying air, their plants often require far more attention to maintain their looks than flowers planted in the ground. Read our feature stories on your time. We'll deliver our best work right to your inbox, for free!
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