Keeping up with the regular maintenance of your property is one of the most important things you can do as a homeowner. Maintenance keeps everything in running condition and could save you thousands on costly home repairs. Keep your house in excellent shape this year by following the summer home maintenance tips below.
Increase your home’s curb appeal and avoid costly repairs with this maintenance checklist.
Home Maintenance Tasks for Summer
Check For Pests
Inspect the attic and basement for signs of rodent or insect activity. Some common indications of an infestation are listed below:
- Rodent droppings
- Signs of chewing on cords and baseboards
- Lingering odors
- Nesting materials
- Unexplained noises
- Dead insects
- Insect trails or markings
If you notice signs of activity or want to deter pests before they become a problem, here are a few things you can do:
- Seal cracks and crevices in your home.
- Don’t leave food in easily accessible places.
- Cover garbage cans and keep compost piles away from the house.
- Call a professional to exterminate the pests.
Inspect Indoor Hoses
Inspecting washing machine and dishwasher lines is one of those maintenance chores that most people never consider. However, finding a leak before it leads to costly water damage can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Inspect hoses that run to dishwashers, toilets, washing machines, refrigerators, and dehumidifiers. Additionally, check the drainage hose for clogs or leaks if you have an air-conditioning unit.
Summer Home Maintenance: Clean Showerheads and Faucets
Your showerhead could be home to mineral deposits that reduce water pressure and harbor dangerous bacteria. Eliminate both by soaking showerheads and faucets in a mixture of water and vinegar for a few hours. Then, rinse and reinstall.
Painting: Inside and Out
Prolong the life of the front stairs and porch with waterproof exterior paint. Give the interior of your home a makeover by repainting rooms. Purchase quality paints, brushes, and rollers for the best results.
Yard Maintenance
Maintaining your lawn is just as important as upkeep on the house, and summer is a great time to check these yard maintenance chores off the list:
- Prune trees and shrubs.
- Check the property for pests and rodents.
- Keep the grass cut.
- Remove weeds and invasive species.
- Pressure wash the driveways, decks, and siding.
- Install traps to keep mosquitoes and ticks at bay.
Replace Damaged Screens
Examine the screens in your windows and doors for rips and tears that might allow insects or other pests into your home. While inspecting windows and doors, check the spaces around them for gaps that might be leaking hot or cold air.
Maintain the Gutters
When gutters become clogged with leaves and other debris, rainwater can overflow and cause damage to the landscaping and siding. Avoid costly repairs by cleaning your gutters at least twice a year.
Schedule Maintenance for Your AC Unit This Summer
To keep your AC unit in good condition, clean the filters and check for leaks. Have a professional inspect the unit to learn about minor problems before they become major issues.
House Doctor Home Inspection provides inspections to homebuyers and sellers in Rhode Island. Contact us to schedule our services.