With summer comes longer days and warmer weather, making it the ideal time for homeowners to tackle outdoor maintenance tasks and prepare your homes for the hotter months ahead. Here, I’ve compiled a comprehensive summer maintenance checklist from the property inspector’s perspective to help you keep your home in tip top shape.
1. Air Conditioning Tune-up
Schedule a professional service for your air conditioning system to ensure it’s operating efficiently. Replace or clean air filters and clean around the unit to remove any debris. This can prevent breakdowns during peak summer heat and improve your home’s air quality.
2. Inspect Roof and Gutters
Winter and even spring can be hard on your roof and gutters. Inspect for and repair any damages such as loose tiles or shingles, and clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage if you did not get to this during spring cleaning.
3. Check Windows and Doors
Examine windows and doors for leaks or drafts. Seal any gaps with caulking or weather stripping to improve energy efficiency. This can also keep your home cooler and reduce air conditioning costs.
4. Prepare Outdoor Living Spaces
Clean and inspect decks, patios, and other outdoor living spaces. Look for any necessary repairs, and consider re-staining or sealing wood surfaces to protect them from the elements.
5. Maintain Your Lawn and Garden
Summer is the peak season for lawn and garden care. Regularly mow your lawn, trim bushes, and weed gardens to keep your outdoor spaces neat and tidy. Consider mulching around trees and plants to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
6. Exterior Painting
Inspect the exterior paint on your home. Summer is the ideal time for touch-ups or a full exterior repaint job if necessary. This not only boosts curb appeal but also provides an additional layer of protection from the sun and weather.
7. Pest Control
Warm weather can invite pests. Inspect your home’s exterior for any signs of termites, ants, or other pests. Consider professional pest control services to address any infestations before they worsen.
8. Sprinkler System Check
Test your sprinkler system and adjust sprinkler heads as needed. Ensure your landscaping is receiving adequate water without wasting any or causing water damage to your home’s foundation.
9. Pool Maintenance
If you have a pool, regular maintenance is essential during the summer. Keep it clean, monitor chemical levels, and ensure the pump and filter system are functioning correctly to enjoy a safe and refreshing swim all season long.
10. Check Safety Equipment
Summer is also a good time to check the status of your home’s safety equipment. Ensure smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and any surveillance cameras are in working order and replace batteries as needed.
By following this checklist, you can identify and address any potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring a worry-free summer. Regular maintenance not only preserves the condition and value of your home but also enhances your living experience during the warmest months of the year. Happy Summer!