Preparing your home for summer means checking your thermostat, cleaning the gutters, nurturing your garden, inspecting your roof, installing insulation, sealing windows, cleaning the BBQ, cleaning the deck, cleaning the patio furniture, trimming trees, and beyond!
Summer is the season of sunshine, barbecues, and vacations. To make the most of it, preparing your home for the warm weather and any extended time away is essential. Here is your definitive checklist to ensure your home is summer-ready. Start reading!
How To Prepare Your Home For Summer?
With summer beginning, homeowners have a checklist to follow, including steps to ensure their home is cool, lawn and garden tasks, and water damage precautions. The list below includes all of these and more. Read on to learn the details!
- Check Your Thermostat: To prepare the home for the summer heat, ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable model for energy efficiency.
- Inspect Air Conditioners: Check and clean your air conditioning units to ensure they operate efficiently. Schedule professional maintenance if needed.
- Replace Your Air Filter: A clean air filter improves air quality and system efficiency. During the summer, replace it every 1-3 months.
- Install Insulation: Proper insulation keeps your home cool and reduces energy costs. Consider insulating your attic and walls.
- Check Ventilation Leaks: Ensure all vents are sealed properly to maintain optimal cooling efficiency.
- Rotate Fans: Guarantee ceiling fans are set to spin counterclockwise to create a cool breeze.
- Seal Windows: To prepare home windows for summer, inspect and seal any gaps in windows to keep the cool air in and the hot air out.
- Clean The Gutters: Remove debris from the gutters to prevent water damage and ensure proper drainage.
- Nurture Your Garden: Water plants early or late in the evening to conserve water and keep your garden thriving.
- Aerate The Lawn: Aerating helps your lawn breathe and absorb water and nutrients better, promoting lush, green grass. Read this guide if you are unsure whether you need to aerate your lawn.
- Trim Trees: Prune any overhanging branches to prevent damage during summer storms and promote healthy growth.
- Program Lawn Sprinkler: Set your sprinkler system to water your lawn optimally to conserve water and maintain a healthy lawn. It is just one of the tips for your garden to survive the heat.
- Fill Your Home With Greenery: Bring in houseplants to improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your indoor spaces.
- Inspect Your Roof: Check for damaged or missing shingles and address any issues to prevent leaks. Follow this roof inspection checklist to be more precise.
- Deeply Clean The BBQ: Get your grill ready for summer barbecues by giving it a thorough cleaning.
- Clean The Deck: Sweep and wash your deck, and check for any repairs or maintenance needed.
- Clean Your Patio Furniture: Wash and sanitize outdoor furniture to keep it looking fresh and inviting.
- Keep Bugs Out: Install screens on windows and doors, and use natural repellents to keep bugs at bay.
- Add Outdoor Lights: Enhance your outdoor space with lighting to enjoy those warm summer nights safely.
The tips above make this the ultimate checklist for preparing your home for summer! Make sure you follow all the steps to have the most prepared home ever. Now, if you plan to travel on your summer vacation, there are additional steps. Discover them in the next section!
How To Prepare Your Home For Summer Vacation?
After you have read the summer home maintenance musts, your home might be ready for the summer heat, but is it ready for your vacation trip? If you intend to stay away from home, add the following steps to your summer preparation checklist.
- Clean out the fridge by disposing of perishable items to avoid coming home to unpleasant odors.
- Let a trusted neighbor know you will be away so they can keep an eye on your property.
- Turn off the water supply or check for leaks to prevent water damage while you are gone.
- Seal any openings and ensure food is stored securely to keep pests out.
- Use timers for lights to give the appearance that someone is home, deterring potential burglars.
- Pause mail and newspaper delivery to avoid signals that you are not there.
- Program your thermostat to vacation mode or an energy-saving temperature while you are away.
- Empty all trash bins to prevent odors and pests.
- Leave closet doors open to promote air circulation and prevent mold.
- Tidy up before you leave to ensure you return to a welcoming home.
- Water your plants well or ask a neighbor to care for them to keep them healthy during your absence.
By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure you are preparing your home for summer. Call homeyou's home inspection contractors and enjoy the season knowing your home is well cared for!
