Time to Check Off These Summer Home Maintenance Tips
Although it starts feeling like summer in May in Missouri, it technically begins in a few short days. It’s important to take some time to make sure your home is in great shape this season. Here are a few summer home maintenance tips to start the season off right:
Lawn Care & Gardening
- Mow: Don’t mow your grass too short. Allowing the grass to grow about 3 inches helps it survive the summer heat.
-
Water your lawn: 1 inch of water per week is recommended. (We know you’re not going to stand out there with a ruler, so talk to your sprinkler company for tips on how long and how often to water each day.)
-
Prune the plants: Remove the wilted leaves and dead branches to assist with new growth. Pinch off the spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
-
Water your garden: Keep plants perky, even on the hottest days of summer with a smart watering routine. For starters, always water in the morning, as overnight dampness can cause rot and mold.
Image by Davie Bicker from Pixabay
Deck Check
-
Replace any boards that are curling or rotting.
-
Ensure deck supports are in good shape and free of insect infestation. Call a pest control company if needed.
-
Stain or reseal as needed. Prepping the deck by power washing, completely drying, removing the finish or seal with the proper products and letting it dry again before applying new stain or sealant is a must!
HVAC
Clean and service your AC unit. You might also consider purchasing a thermostat that will help you conserve energy with your heating and cooling systems. At times, your utility company will offer discounts and specials on thermostats, so be sure to check their websites.
Water Heater
Flush your hot water heater! Sediment builds up in the tank over the years and can cause rust and inefficiencies. Call your plumber every few years to drain the tank and remove the sediment, or click here for a DIY option.
Exhaust Fans
Clean exhaust fans! Before doing this, be sure to turn off the electricity to the bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. Remove the vent covers and soak them in warm, soapy water. Wipe down the fan blades. Vacuum around fan blades. Let everything dry completely before putting the vent covers back on. Video instructions here!
Carpets
Clean your carpets! Summer is a great time to have your carpets professionally cleaned. Spring and fall tend to be the busiest seasons for carpet cleaners, so many have special summer deals. Be sure to let the areas that are cleaned dry completely before moving the furniture back.
Locks
Check your locks! Summertime means vacations and day trips, but with empty homes comes an increased risk of burglary. So check the locks on all of the doors and windows in your home. Replace any broken ones, especially if you are planning to travel.
Photo by Angelo Pantazis on Unsplash
We hope these summer home maintenance tips haven’t overwhelmed you. And listen, we know you want to spend your summer by the pool or at the lake, so check out our list of our trusted and preferred vendors to help accomplish your summer checklist.