The Ultimate Summer Checklist for Maintaining Your Home’s Exterior

Summer is here, and with it comes the excitement of trips to the beach, barbecues, and outdoor activities. However, as you enjoy the sunshine and warmer weather, it’s essential not to forget about the important maintenance tasks around your home. Effective home maintenance during the summer can help prevent costly repairs and ensure that your home is comfortable and safe all season long. Here are some essential things to keep in mind for your home from top to bottom during summer:

Inspect the Foundation

Regularly inspecting the foundation of your home is crucial for maintaining its exterior. By checking for any signs of cracks or shifting, you can identify potential issues before they become major problems. If you notice any foundational cracks in your home, it is important to take immediate action and get a professional waterproofing company to come in and verify if there are any potential issues. Foundation cracks can lead to serious problems such as water leakage, mold growth, and structural damage. By calling in a professional waterproofing company, you can ensure that any foundational cracks are properly assessed and repaired if necessary. Taking the time to inspect and address foundation issues will help ensure the longevity and structural integrity of your home’s exterior.

Check Your Roof and Gutters

Summer brings rain showers, which can be intense at times, so it’s essential to ensure that your roof and gutters can handle the water runoff. Inspect your roof for any signs of damage such as missing shingles or cracks and clean your gutters to prevent blockages and ensure proper drainage. Consider hiring a professional, Like Davis Roofing & Construction, if you’re unsure how to carry out the roof inspection or repair work.

Clean and Check Your Siding

When winter clears out, your siding may not look its best. Build-up from snow and ice, or grime from salting the walkways can make your home appear dirty. If you saw significant icy spots on the siding during the winter, it may be a sign that your home is not as protected as you think. When you clean your siding, you will want to take a closer look at these spots to see if there is any damage or if moisture can get behind it.

Service Your Air Conditioning Unit

Your air conditioning system is essential to keep your home cool and comfortable during summer. Schedule a professional maintenance check-up to ensure that your unit is working efficiently and to prevent any issues from occurring. Homeowners are generally recommended to do these routine checkups every year.

Remember to change your air filters regularly, and if you notice any unusual noises or smells coming from your unit, schedule a repair with a professional right away. A dirty air filter can make your home’s heating and air conditioning systems work in overdrive, which will shorten their life.

Inspect Your Windows and Doors

A well-insulated home is crucial to keep your energy bills low and your home comfortable during summer. Inspect your windows and doors for any cracks or gaps that could let cool air escape or hot air seep in. If you feel a draft or see moisture seeping through during a rainstorm, it can be a sign that your windows are not sealing properly. Replace any worn-out weather stripping and consider upgrading your windows and doors if they’re old or inefficient. New windows not only look great, but they can help reduce your energy usage by helping your HVAC system work more efficiently.

Don’t Forget to Clean Your Windows

Cleaning your windows and window screens is an important task that should not be overlooked. Regularly cleaning your windows helps to improve the overall appearance of your home and allows more natural light to enter your space. It also helps to remove dirt, dust, and grime that can accumulate over time.

Cleaning your window screens is equally important as it helps to keep pests out and ensures proper airflow. Neglecting to clean your windows and window screens can lead to a buildup of dirt and debris, which can affect the functionality of your windows and reduce their lifespan. Therefore, it is essential to include window and window screen cleaning as part of your regular summer cleaning and maintenance routine.

Check Your Driveways and Walkways

Regularly checking and maintaining your driveways and walkways is essential for several reasons.

• It ensures the safety of anyone who uses them, preventing accidents and injuries caused by cracks, holes, or uneven surfaces.
• A well-maintained driveway and walkway enhance the curb appeal of your property, making it more visually appealing to visitors and potential buyers.
• Addressing any issues promptly can help prevent further damage and costly repairs in the long run.

By regularly checking your driveways and walkways is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining the overall condition and functionality of your property.

Clean and Maintain Your Deck or Patio

Your outdoor living space is an essential part of your summer fun, so it’s important to ensure that it’s safe and clean. Clean your deck or patio thoroughly and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Repair or replace any damaged boards, loose railings, cracked cement, or loose bricks to prevent accidents. You may need to consider adding a fresh coat of stain or sealant to protect against UV damage and moisture.

Maintain Your Lawn and Garden

Summer is the season of lush lawns and blooming gardens, but it takes effort to maintain them properly. Water your lawn and garden regularly and ensure that your sprinkler system is working correctly. Set up a schedule or routine to mow and fertilize your lawn to keep it looking great. If you find overgrown or misshapen plants, trees, or shrubs, trim and prune them to keep them healthy and strong. Consider adding mulch around your plants to retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

Don’t Let Summer Weather Damage Your Home’s Exterior

Effective home maintenance during summer is not only crucial to ensure your home is comfortable and safe; it can also help save you money in the long run. Keep these essential tasks in mind to keep your home in top shape from top to bottom during summer. Looking for a reliable roofing service in the area? Davis Roofing Companies has got you covered! Contact us today for all of your Wheaton roofing and siding needs.