With summer comes sunshine, vibrant flowers, and
trips to the beach or golf course. But, just because the nice weather is here
doesn't mean you should ditch the housework. Like with any season, summer comes
with a list of home maintenance items that protect your home, while saving you
money on costly repairs. Here are some essential maintenance items to complete
in time for summer.
Check
the Roof
The roofing
experts at TAMKO Building Products say roof inspections should be completed
at least bi-annually. Checking your roof will help you discover a small problem
before it becomes a major one. Inspect your roof for loose, missing or damaged
shingles, such as blistering, curling, cracking, and buckling. Shingle problems
can allow water to leak into your home. Also check for shingle granule loss;
the granules protect your shingles from UV damage and may turn up in your rain
gutters or yard. Other warning signs include the accumulation of moss or lichen,
sagging and warping, rust spots on the flashing, and dry rot. Any of these
issues require immediate attention from a roofing professional.
Clean
the Gutters
Cleaning the gutters periodically will help you
avoid clogs and potential leaks. Your gutters should be cleaned twice a year,
including in late spring/early summer. Clear out your gutters and ensure
they're free of any debris, including flowers, leaves, twigs and dirt. Once the
debris is removed, use a hose to ensure the system is working properly. Also
make sure the system is properly positioned so it can effectively divert water
from your house.
Service the AC
You don’t want to wait until the hot weather hits to
discover your air conditioner is broken. To avoid any surprises, have your air
conditioner tuned up before summer. During the tune up, the AC service technician
will check the coolant levels and pressure, inspect and clean the coils, and ensure
all the system's parts are operating at peak performance. A tune-up will not
only keep your AC unit running smoothly, but also it will help you minimize
your energy bills. Along with a tune-up, change your filters every one to three
months.
Inspect
the Windows
Prevent air leaks by ensuring your windows are properly
sealed. Examine the sealant to make sure both the interior and exterior sides
are secured. Replace the caulking as needed. While you're inspecting the
windows, wash them on the inside and out.
Power
Wash the Exterior
On a nice day, power wash your home's exterior to
banish dirt, stains and mildew. You can rent a power washer from your local
home improvement store or hire a professional to do the job for you. Be sure to
power wash your house, driveway, porch and deck.
These are five essential maintenance tasks for
summer. By doing these tasks, you can protect and beautify your home.
