Blog, Home Improvement

Summer is the perfect season to focus on maintaining your home. Follow these tasks to keep your home in great shape both inside and out.

12 Key Projects for Summer Home Maintenance

Outdoor Home Maintenance

1. Power Wash Driveways and Sidewalks Inspect and clean your outdoor surfaces with a pressure washer. Look for cracks and weeds before starting. Pressure washers are available for rent if needed.

2. Clear Gutters and Downspouts Maintaining clean gutters and downspouts is crucial. Soft washing is a safe method to clean your home’s exterior without causing damage.

3. Wash Windows and Replace Screens Clean both your windows and window screens. If screens are too dirty to clean, consider replacing them. Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to keep your home cool.

4. Eliminate Bug Breeding Grounds Use outdoor bug spray around your home and yard. Caulk windows and doors to prevent insects from entering your home.

5. Refresh Your Yard Prune dead branches, weed your garden, and add mulch to flower beds. This helps your plants retain moisture and prepares your yard for summer activities.

6. Prepare Your Grill Clean and test your grill. For gas grills, heat and scrub the grates. For charcoal grills, use hot, soapy water. Inspect hoses for cracks and ensure your grill is placed safely away from flammable objects.

7. Update Outdoor Furniture Create a comfortable outdoor living space with new furniture. This enhances your home’s appeal and provides a great area for entertaining.

Indoor Home Maintenance

8. Check Indoor Hoses Inspect hoses for your appliances for signs of wear, leaks, or cracks. Replace them regularly, ideally every 3-5 years.

9. Test Safety Detectors Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly by replacing old batteries.

10. Clean Kitchen Appliances Flush your garbage disposal with hot water and soap. Clean your dishwasher by running it with vinegar. If issues persist, consider replacing the appliance.

11. Reverse Ceiling Fans Set your ceiling fan to spin counter-clockwise to help cool your home. Dust the blades while adjusting the fan.

12. Maintain Your Washing Machine Inspect and clean the seal between the door and drum with a bleach solution. This prevents odors and keeps your clothes clean.