As your summer flies by with friends and family, now is the time to plan a weekend to work on your home. Taking time to do summer maintenance projects now will save you money, improve your home and ultimately keep your loved ones safe. Check out this list of maintenance projects we recommend your family doing this summer.
1. Check Your Basement for Foundation Cracks, Leaks and Seepage
When foundation cracks, leaks and seepage are found in the basement of your home, this is a sign of moisture. Ground water wears on basement exterior, humid air condensation or indoor moisture from your bathrooms, humidifiers, air conditioners, etc. need to be addressed before bigger problems arise.
2. Fill Any Cracks in Your Driveway or Concrete Patio
Cracks in your driveway or concrete patio provide more than an inconvenience of weeds growing in patches through the cracks. Filling these gaps can also reduce tripping hazards.
3. Examine Your Deck for Structural Integrity
Check for loose boards and steps that bounce. There may also be the need to stain or reseal your deck to extend its life.
4. Fix Loose or Leaky Gutters
Gutters are no longer effective when they are loose, leaky or clogged with leaves and debris. Clear signs of gutters in need of attention are sagging gutters, discolored siding and water in your basement.
5. Cover Exposed Tree Roots
Covering tree roots is one maintenance project not many think about. Create a natural barrier at the base of the tree with a mulch bed. For trees that have larger root exposure or several feet away from the tree base, try adding in lawn decor over the roots to diminish tripping hazards.
6. Sand Wooden Patio Furniture
Take a look at your wooden patio furniture and deck railings. These can get weathered and cause splinters and cuts without proper upkeep of sanding and potential staining or sealing.
7. Create a Barrier on Your Fire Pit
Similar to how the exposed roots can cause a tripping hazard, create a barrier around the fire pit to minimize tripping and injury risk. Adding decorative stones and other landscaping can provide an easy way to communicate a safe border around your fire pit.
8. Clean the Air Conditioning System
Have you cleaned your air conditioning system this year? Avoid inefficient working air conditioning by giving it a good cleaning. Hire a local professional or give this HGTV’s easy guide.
9. Inspect Your Dryer Vent
Thousands of house fires a year are caused by dryer lint. Make sure to check your external dryer vent routinely for clogged lint and give it a good cleaning.
10. Review Your Dehumidifier
Make sure your dehumidifier is working properly. Check the recall list and replace your dehumidifier if needed.
As you start your summer maintenance projects and feel overwhelmed or uncertain, contact your local experts for assistance. A simple fix could easily become a much bigger task if done incorrectly.
For additional tips on cleaning to save money and prevent insurance claims, check out these articles.