Preparing Your Home For the Summer
In this article, we’ll discuss 6 ways to prepare your home for the summer. We’ll cover topics such as cleaning and organizing your home, checking your air conditioning and HVAC systems, inspecting your roof and gutters, maintaining your plumbing, preparing your outdoor spaces, and pest prevention. By the end of the article, you’ll have a comprehensive plan for getting your home ready for the summer months.
In 2021 the US spent an incredible $538 billion on home improvement, showing that a preventative strategy could ease the financial burden on households up and down the country. Read on to see which measures you should consider implementing to get your home ready for the summer months ahead.
1. Create a Fresh and Tidy Living Space
As temperatures rise, a clean and organized home can make all the difference in staying comfortable during the summer. A tidy living space can improve air circulation and give a sense of calmness and relaxation. Moreover, a well-maintained home can also help avoid any unwanted guests, such as pests or insects.
Decluttering before the summer is crucial for creating a comfortable and functional living space. It allows you to enjoy the warmer months without the added stress of clutter and disorganization, making your home feel like a true oasis, says Carly Campbell, a home organization expert from Mommy On Purpose
To get started on decluttering and deep cleaning your home, begin by going through your closets, drawers and shelves to remove items you no longer need or use. This can include clothes that no longer fit, old magazines, or items that are just collecting dust. Next, give your home a thorough cleaning by dusting, vacuuming and mopping all surfaces. Don’t forget to clean often-forgotten areas such as baseboards and ceiling fans.
Once your home is decluttered and cleaned, it’s time to focus on organizing storage spaces and closets. This can include using a system of shelves and drawers to keep items easily accessible, hanging organizers for jewelry and other small items, and using storage containers to keep things like linens and seasonal clothing organized. Additionally, don’t forget to label everything, this way it will be easier to find and put things away when you need them.
2. Check Your Air Conditioning and HVAC Systems
As the temperatures rise during the summer months, it’s important to make sure that your air conditioning and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are functioning properly. Not only will this ensure that your home stays cool and comfortable, but regular maintenance can also help extend the life of your equipment and prevent costly repairs down the road.
How to clean and maintain your AC and HVAC systems
● Clean or replace air filters: One of the simplest and most effective things you can do to maintain your AC and HVAC systems is to regularly check and clean or replace the air filters. A dirty filter can restrict air flow, causing your system to work harder and reducing its efficiency.
● Clear debris from outside units: The outdoor unit of your AC system should be cleared of any debris, such as leaves or grass clippings, that may have accumulated around it. This can prevent damage to the unit and ensure that it’s able to dissipate heat effectively.
● Check ductwork: The ductwork that carries air throughout your home should be inspected for leaks or disconnected sections. Any leaks or disconnected sections should be repaired to ensure that your system is able to circulate air efficiently.
● Schedule professional maintenance: It is recommended to schedule a professional maintenance at least once a year to check for any issue that you may have missed, or the professional will be able to point out the issue that need attention.
When to call a professional for AC and HVAC maintenance
● If your AC or HVAC system is not cooling or heating your home effectively
● If you hear strange noises coming from your equipment
● If your energy bills have suddenly increased
● If you notice any strange odors coming from your equipment
● If you see any moisture or water leaks around the equipment
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional to come out and take a look at your system. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and make any necessary repairs to ensure that your AC and HVAC systems are running smoothly throughout the summer months.
3. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
The summer months bring not only hot temperatures but also heavy rainfall and storms. It’s important to make sure that your roof and gutters are functioning properly to protect your home from water damage. A properly functioning roof and gutters will keep rainwater flowing away from your home’s foundation, preventing leaks and water damage in the basement or crawlspace. Additionally, a damaged roof or clogged gutters can lead to issues such as mold, mildew, and damage to the structural integrity of your home.
Barry Gray, from The Tool Square, told us that before summer starts is a perfect time to inspect your roof and gutters to make sure they are in good condition. He said having a sturdy ladder, a good quality roofing hammer, and a pair of work gloves are some basic tools every homeowner should have on hand to ensure the safety and efficiency of the process.
Tips for inspecting and maintaining your roof and gutters
● Inspect your roof: From the ground, look for any missing, curled, or cracked shingles, any signs of decay or mold, and any damage caused by animals or debris. If possible, safely inspect the roof by walking on it to check for any issues.
● Clean your gutters: Clear out any debris that may have accumulated in your gutters, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt, to ensure that water can flow freely through them. Also check for any leaks or clogs in the downspouts.
● Inspect flashing and seals: Flashing is the metal that is used to seal the joints on a roof where different sections meet. check for any cracked, loose or missing flashing, and if you find any, repair or replace it as soon as possible.
● Schedule professional maintenance: It is always a good idea to schedule a professional roof and gutter inspection, at least once a year, to check for any potential issues and help keep your home safe and protected.
How to identify and address common roof and gutter issues
● Leaks: If you notice any water stains on your ceiling or walls, it’s a sign that you may have a leak in your roof. A professional should be called to diagnose and repair the leak as soon as possible.
● Clogged gutters: Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow, potentially causing damage to your home’s foundation or basement. Clear out any debris that may have accumulated in your gutters and make sure that water can flow freely through them.
● Damaged shingles: If you notice any missing, curled, or cracked shingles, it’s a sign that your roof may be in need of repair. A professional should be called to diagnose and repair the damaged shingles.
● Sagging gutters: if you notice your gutters are sagging or pulling away from your home, it is an indication of damage or a problem with the gutter hangers. A professional should be called to diagnose and repair the problem.
4. Maintain Your Plumbing
The summer months can put additional stress on your plumbing system. The increased demand for water from activities such as watering the lawn and garden, filling pools and hot tubs, and hosting guests can put a strain on your plumbing. Additionally, high temperatures can cause pipes to expand and potentially leak, causing water damage and costly repairs. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues and ensure that your plumbing is functioning properly throughout the summer.
Tips for checking for leaks and inspecting your plumbing
● Check for leaks: Check all faucets, showerheads, and toilets for any drips or leaks. You can also check your water meter to see if there is any significant increase in usage indicating a leak.
● Inspect exposed pipes: Visually inspect any exposed pipes, such as those in the basement or crawlspace, for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage.
● Check for clogs: Check all drains and toilets to make sure they are flowing freely and not clogged.
● Have a professional inspect your system: It is always a good idea to schedule a professional plumbing inspection, at least once a year, to check for any issues that you may have missed and help keep your home’s plumbing system in top shape.
How to prevent common plumbing issues during the summer
1. Use water efficiently: Conserve water by using low-flow showerheads and fixing leaks promptly.
2. Dispose of grease properly: Summer grilling can lead to an increase in grease being washed down the drain. Do not pour grease or oil down the drain as it can cause clogs.
3. Be mindful of what you flush: Be mindful of what you flush down the toilet, avoid flushing non-biodegradable items such as baby wipes and feminine hygiene products as it can cause clogs.
4. Limit the use of chemical drain cleaners: Chemical drain cleaners can cause damage to your pipes over time. Instead, use a plumbing snake or call a professional to remove clogs.
5. Be mindful of what you put down the garbage disposal: Avoid putting fibrous or stringy foods, such as onion skins, celery or fruit pits, as it can cause clogs in your drain.
5. Pest Prevention
Summertime can bring a variety of pests that can be a nuisance and cause damage to your home. Some common summer pests include ants, cockroaches, termites, wasps, and mosquitoes. These pests can cause a variety of problems, such as spreading disease, damaging wood, and creating unsanitary conditions. Additionally, many pests, such as termites, can cause significant damage to your home’s structure if left untreated.
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to pest control, says Gulshan Hajara Banu, Founder, and CEO of PestKeen. Summer is the time when many pests are the most active and homeowners should take the necessary steps to prepare their property before the warm weather arrives.
Tips for preventing pests from entering your home
● Keep your home clean: Regularly cleaning your home and keeping it free of crumbs, spills, and other sources of food can discourage pests from entering.
● Seal entry points: Pests can enter your home through small cracks and crevices. Seal any potential entry points around windows, doors, and vents to prevent them from getting inside.
● Remove sources of water and shelter: Pests are attracted to water and shelter, so removing standing water and trimming back any trees, bushes, or shrubs that are touching your home can reduce the likelihood of pests taking up residence around your home.
● Store food properly: Keep food sealed in containers, and dispose of any garbage promptly, to reduce the attractant.
How to safely and effectively eliminate pests if they do enter your home
● Identify the pest: Proper identification is crucial in order to effectively eliminate the pest.
● Use traps and baits: Utilize traps and baits specifically formulated for the identified pest to control their population.
● Professional help: If the infestation is severe or you are unable to control it yourself, call a professional exterminator.
Suggestions for long-term pest prevention methods
● Regular inspections: Schedule regular inspections, particularly in the summer months, to identify any potential pest problems early.
● Keep up with general maintenance: Regularly maintaining your home, such as fixing leaks and sealing entry points, can help prevent pests from setting up home in the first place.
● Modify the landscaping: Consider modifying your landscaping by removing plants that are attractive to pests and replacing them with those that are less so.
● Keep pests out: Use screens on windows and doors, as well as weather stripping to keep pests out.
● Properly Store food and trash: Regularly cleaning your kitchen and properly storing food and disposing of trash can reduce the attractant.
6. Prepare Your Outdoor Spaces
Maintaining your outdoor spaces during the summer months is important for both aesthetics and function. A well-maintained lawn and garden can provide a pleasant and inviting space for outdoor activities, while also improving the curb appeal of your home. Regular maintenance can also help prevent damage to your property, such as overgrown plants blocking walkways or erosion caused by poor drainage.
Tips for maintaining your lawn and garden
● Water your lawn and garden regularly: With the hot summer weather, it’s important to keep your lawn and garden well-watered to ensure that they stay healthy and lush.
● Mow your lawn regularly: Mowing your lawn regularly at the right height for the type of grass will help keep it healthy and looking neat.
● Fertilize your lawn and garden: Applying fertilizer at the appropriate time will give your lawn and garden the nutrients they need to thrive.
● Keep an eye out for pests and diseases: Summer is a prime time for pests and diseases to affect your lawn and garden. Keep an eye out for signs of infestation or infection and take appropriate action promptly.
Ideas for creating a relaxing outdoor living space
● Add comfortable seating: Create a comfortable and inviting space to relax by adding seating options such as a bench, Adirondack chairs or a porch swing.
● Create a focal point: Add a focal point such as a water feature, a fire pit, or a focal point such as a pergola, arbor or trellis.
● Incorporate lighting: Use lighting to enhance the ambiance of your outdoor space and to extend the use of the space well into the evening hours.
● Add greenery: Add plants and flowers to the space for a splash of color and to create a natural and inviting environment.
● Create different zones: Divide the space into different zones, such as a dining area, a lounging area, or a play area for children.
Conclusion
It’s important to regularly maintain and prepare your home to ensure that it stays comfortable and safe throughout the summer. By regularly checking and maintaining your home’s systems and structures, you can prevent costly repairs and keep your home in top condition.
With the tips and suggestions provided in this article, you can keep your home comfortable, safe and looking great all summer long. Don’t wait until a problem arises to start making changes, stay ahead of potential issues by doing regular checks and maintenance. By making these preparations and following the tips, you can enjoy a summer season that’s comfortable, safe, and stress-free.
