Summer is almost officially here and no doubt you can’t wait to spend time outdoors. Before you head off for a well deserved holiday, take the time to check the following home maintenance tasks off your to-do list.
Do you need help with yard work or home repairs? Give me a call! I can recommend professionals in almost any home related field – like contractors, designers, landscape companies, junk removal services, handy people, and more.
Out in the garden
- Test irrigation and sprinkler systems and replace any broken sprinkler heads. Check for proper water coverage and adjust if necessary.
- Seal cracks in the driveway and keep walkways clear of debris and overgrown plants.
- Keep shrubs and plants around the air-conditioning unit trimmed. Make sure there’s at least 18” of room around the sides of the air conditioner, and three feet or more above the unit.
- Repot houseplants to give their roots a fresh start for the summer.
Up on the roof
- Clear dirt and debris from gutters and eaves.
Outside the home
- Inspect siding for cracks or other damage and make any needed repairs.
- If paint is peeling, cracking, or chipped, repair and repaint now to limit damage to the underlying materials.
- Remove window screens and clean them with a soft brush and soapy water. Rinse well and allow them to dry in the sun. Repair any holes or tears, or replace the screen material before reinstalling.
- Have the air conditioning unit serviced to ensure good operation.
- Power wash decks and patios and seal surfaces as appropriate.
- It’s barbecue time! Get ready for summer barbecues by cleaning and repairing the gas grill.
Inside the home
- Vacuum or brush off refrigerator coils to help maintain energy efficiency.
- Bathroom ceiling vent fans can collect quite a bit of dust. Remove the cover, vacuum out any dust, and spray any moving parts with silicone lubricant to get your fan quietly humming once again.
- Empty dehumidifier pans and clean hoses according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Take area rugs outside and hang them over a deck or porch rail to air out.
- Reverse your ceiling fan to the summer setting. While you’re at it, give the unit a good dusting to avoid blowing dust around the room. A good trick is to use an old pillow case, or affix a dryer sheet to a paint roller with elastic bands.
- Switch out heavy bedding for lightweight summer fabrics. Have the winter bedding cleaned before storing it away for the season.
- Close the chimney flue to prevent insects from entering and to help keep cool air in during the months ahead.
- Check door and cabinet hinges and lubricate any that stick or squeak.
- Open windows even on cooler days to get fresh air flowing throughout the home.
- Replace disposable water filters on your water filtration system and/or icemaker as recommended by the manufacturer (usually every six months). This will keep mold and mildew from growing in the filter and keep your water clean, fresh, and flowing freely.
If you need a professional to report on functionality, wear and tear, safety and maintenance, a home inspector will be able to help. Most inspectors offer Owner’s Maintenance Inspections in addition to Pre and Post Purchase Inspection services. See Breathe! And get a home inspection for advice on choosing a qualified home inspector.
Enjoy the summer!
Brendan
