Summer Home Maintenance Tips

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Home Maintenance

It’s easy to get caught up in summer fun. But it’s important not to overlook home maintenance. Taking care of your home during the summer months can prevent costly repairs down the road and help avoid unwelcome surprises. So, while you’re planning your beach trips and barbecues, don’t forget to give your home some much-needed TLC.

Interior Maintenance

  • Air Conditioning:
    • Look at your outdoor unit and clean away any debris. Replace the air filters. A clogged filter can cause your system to shut down. Have a professional check that the condensate drain is clear, the condenser coils are clean, and that the coolant lines are insulated. If you choose to do work on your air conditioner yourself, make sure to shut off the circuit breaker first.
  • Attic and Basement:
    • Check for signs of mold and mildew, leaks, holes in the roof, and pests. Mold often looks dark green or black on the surface of wood and other materials. Water damage can appear as peeling paint or discoloration. You also may notice a musty smell. Take action to correct any of these issues.
  • Ceiling Fans:
    • Check that your fans are working properly. If your fan allows you to change its direction, switch it so it runs counterclockwise in the summer months. This will help push cooler air down and allow you to keep your home at a slightly higher temperature while still feeling comfortable. This will save energy. Not sure if your fan changes direction? Look for a switch in the fan’s motor or on the box underneath the fan.
  • Chimney:
    • The perfect time to clean your chimney is when you are not using it. You will want to remove the highly flammable creosote buildup that is caused by burning wood. Hire a professional. If you prefer to DIY the cleanup, get your chimney inspected by a qualified chimney sweep. They are trained to recognize chimney deterioration and venting problems.
  • Dryer:
    • Lint and debris in your dryer vent and exhaust duct can be a fire hazard. If it’s taking longer than usual for your clothes to dry, that probably means your duct and vent needs to be cleaned. It’s a simple do-it-yourself process.
  • Garage:
    • Check your garage for hazardous materials, like paints, cleaning supplies, and lawn chemicals. When combined with summer heat, some of these items could become dangerous. Arrange for a safe place to store them where the temperature is more moderate.
  • Smoke Detectors:
  • Water Fixtures:
    • Check for leaks from your water faucets, plumbing and pipes. This is wasted water that can result in higher water bills. Pro tip: Install a leak detection device.
  • Windows and Doors:
    • Patch holes in window screens or replace mesh if there is a lot of damage. Clean windows inside and out, using a foam paintbrush for the tracks.
    • Check the seals on windows and doors. If you see daylight around the door or window frame, there’s an air leak. Seal it with caulk as needed.

Exterior Maintenance

  • Decks and Patios:
    • Look for loose boards, screws or nails on your deck. Clean and reseal wood decks to prevent rotting and protect it from UV rays. Check for loose tiles or broken cement on your patio and make those repairs. Clean patio furniture.
  • Fence:
    • Look for any problem areas in your fence that makes it less secure. Check the upright supporting posts for wear and tear. Fill in any holes under the fence. Repair chipped paint and clean dirty or stained spots.
  • Foundation:
    • Summer heat can cause the soil under your home to shrink. This can create gaps and cause your foundation to settle. Keep your eye out for exterior foundation cracks. You also may notice interior wall cracks or slanted floors. Acting sooner rather than later will help minimize damage.
  • Grill:
    • Your grill is your outdoor kitchen during the summertime. Make sure it is clean and in good working order. Check for rust, cracks and any parts that may need repair. For gas grills, examine the gas lines and connections for leaks. Use a stiff brush to clean away food particles and grease that could cause dangerous flare-ups. Cover your grill when not in use to keep pests and animals from nesting there.
  • Gutters:
    • If water doesn’t flow through your gutters, it can build up and damage your roof. Inspect your gutters and clean out the debris. Don’t forget to clean the drains and downspouts too.
  • Lawn Maintenance:
    • Keep your mowed grass on a taller setting so the blades will help shade the soil. This will help reduce water evaporation. Use a water calculator to give your lawn the ideal amount for your region.
  • Play Equipment:
    • Make sure swing sets and other play equipment are still sturdy and safe for use. Repair or replace any that could be dangerous.
  • Pool:
    • Vacuum your swimming pool to remove dirt and debris. Clean your pool’s filter. Keep an eye on the water chemistry. Pro tip: Toss in a tennis ball. The wool and nylon help to absorb oils like sunscreen that are in the water.
  • Roof:
    • Get up on your roof to see if there are any damaged or missing shingles, signs of leaks, and problems with flashing. Repair and replace as needed.
  • Siding:
    • Look for loose or damaged siding, and signs of rot. Repair or replace as needed. You can pressure wash siding to remove built-up debris.
  • Sprinkler Systems:
    • Test your sprinkler system and outdoor faucets and look for leaks. These are also places for wasted water that could increase your bill.
  • Trees:
    • Trim your tree branches so you don’t give squirrels a highway to your house. Branches should be at least 8 feet from your roof.
  • Walkways and Driveways:
    • Inspect and patch any cracks with flexible sealant. Pressure wash walkways and driveways to remove dirt and stains.

Finally, protect your home with the right insurance for peace of mind. Enjoy your summer!

 

This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.

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