With the arrival of the warmer weather, you may feel like inviting friends to cookouts and pool parties. Take advantage of the longer summer days to tackle upkeep around the house. Here are a few projects to put on your summer home maintenance to-do list.
Home Maintenance: Clean the Gutters This Summer
With summer thunderstorms on the way, clearing out the gutters is a great way to keep rainwater clear of the house. Using a ladder, remove all debris from the gutters. Once all leaves, pine needles, twigs, and animal nests are removed, use the hose to rinse the gutters. Watch to verify the water is draining correctly. Clearing the channels is also an effective way of preventing mosquitos.
Test the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Test the detectors throughout the house. Your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have a test button. Press this button and wait for the alarm to sound. If there is no sound, replace the battery. Replace the device itself after ten years of service.
Pressure Washing the Driveway
Use your pressure washer to deep-clean the driveway when the sun is out. Wash the sidewalks, patio, and front steps.
Pressure washing is a great way to get rid of accumulated mold and dirt. Your home exterior will look fresh and new. Pressure washing is a must for summer home maintenance. If you don’t own a pressure washer, check your local hardware or home improvement store for a rental.
Summer Home Maintenance: Clean the Yard
Summer maintenance wouldn’t be complete without tidying up the landscape. Wearing gloves, remove all weeds, unwanted shrubbery, overgrown hedges, and dead branches. Use a lawnmower to cut the grass. Add flowers to the garden beds and potted plants on the porch or patio.
Wash the Windows as Part of Summer Home Maintenance
Cleaning your windows is a great way to keep the exterior of your home looking bright. Wash both the window glass and window screens. Remove the screens, scrub them with dish soap and water, and rinse them with the garden hose. Wash the glass with a mixture of vinegar and water and wipe them clean with a soft rag. Once everything is dry, insert the window screens back in place.
Improve the Front Door
Summer is a great time to spruce up the front door. Clean the door to remove dust and dirt. Apply a fresh coat of paint if the front door is older and the color is fading.
Alternatively, remove your current door and attach a new one. A new steel door improves safety and boosts curb appeal. Use the opportunity to upgrade your front door security with a video doorbell.
Repelling Bugs and Mosquitos
Bug repellent should be a priority on your summertime shopping list. Mosquitos are annoying when you’re trying to relax outdoors with family and friends. Purchase citronella candles for the patio table and add paraffin torches to the yard to help repel mosquitoes. Add bug-repelling plants to the garden and in planters on the deck, porch, or patio. Remove items from the yard that collect water when it rains, because this is where mosquitos lay their eggs.
Arrow Home Inspections provides inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in the Charlotte Metro Area. Contact us to request an inspection.