Prepare Your Home for Summer: Essential Maintenance Tips from Experts
As the snow melts and warmer days arrive in Wisconsin, many homeowners are gearing up for summer with thoughts of relaxation and outdoor activities. However, as Dean Frederick, President of the Metropolitan Builders Association (MBA), advises, now is also the perfect time to turn your attention to the maintenance needs of your home. Following a long winter, taking steps to ensure your home is in peak condition can save you from potentially costly repairs down the road.
“Summer is for warm weather, relaxing vacations, and spending time with friends and family,’ Frederick noted. ‘But before the summer season ends, there are some routine maintenance steps you can take to ensure your home looks good and functions optimally.’
With that in mind, here are some practical tips from the MBA, the National Association of Home Builders, and Geis Building Products to help you tackle essential home maintenance tasks this summer.
Refresh Your Windows
First on the list is window maintenance. Begin by replacing storm windows with screens. Clean both the windows and the screens using soapy water. Check the weatherstripping around both windows and doors, replacing any damaged or worn sections. Open your windows to ensure they are functioning smoothly and fit snugly within their frames, preventing outside air from entering and allowing your home’s cooled or heated air to escape. Don’t forget to clean the tracks to ensure optimal operation.
Pest Prevention
As summer approaches, so does the threat of pesky insects and critters finding their way into your home. To keep them at bay, proactively seal any cracks or openings around pipes, behind sinks, and around windows and doors. Additionally, check for any damage to your screens and perform necessary repairs to deter unwanted visitors.
Air Conditioning Care
To keep your home comfortable during the warmer months, maintain your air conditioning system. Change the filters every three months and consider having the entire system inspected and cleaned if needed. During your spring cleaning, make it a habit to clean air return registers, where dust can accumulate. Remove register covers and vacuum out the vent openings. For additional energy efficiency, think about using blinds or curtains to keep direct sunlight from heating your home.
Fireplace and Chimney Maintenance
If your home features a natural fireplace, summer is an excellent time to clean it out and have your chimney inspected and professionally cleaned. This proactive approach will ensure that your fireplace is ready to keep you warm when the chilly autumn days return.
Roof Inspection
If you’re comfortable on a ladder, take a moment to inspect your roof for any damage that may have occurred during the winter months. It’s always a wise idea to ensure your roof is in good shape or, if in doubt, hire a professional to carry out a thorough inspection.
Gutter Maintenance
While on the ladder, check your gutters for any debris or damage. Ensure that they’re clear and that downspouts are functioning properly to prevent water accumulation that could lead to leaks or damage in your home.
Garage Door Maintenance
Your garage door deserves attention as well. Lubricate the moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant, clean the door with soapy water to prevent rust, and ensure proper sealing by looking for any gaps around a closed door. To test if it’s properly balanced, disconnect it from the operator and lift it manually; it should stay at a halfway position. If your garage door is aging, consider a replacement, as it can significantly enhance your home’s appeal. According to the 2023 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine, replacing a garage door can yield an impressive return on investment (ROI) exceeding 103%.
Conclusion
As summer rolls in, taking the time to follow these maintenance tips can help ensure that your home remains a comfortable and safe haven. By addressing these tasks now, you can avoid more significant issues in the future, allowing more time for the relaxation and enjoyment that the summer season promises.
For more detailed home maintenance tips, you can refer to resources from Freddie Mac and other home improvement organizations. With a little dedication this summer, your home will be ready to shine bright throughout the season.
For a free quote, visit www.raintechgutters.com or call us at +1 (407) 276-1252.