When summer rolls around, you may think of barbeques, the beach, and engaging in more outside activities, but one thing many people forget to consider is essential home repairs.
Check out 13 home repairs you should consider making this summer.
1.Repair or Replace Water-Stained Ceilings
If you’ve had a roof leak recently, you may start to notice yellow or brown stains on your ceiling. Painting over the stain won’t do the trick because the stain will show through. Instead, use a stain sealer to contain the spot, then paint over it. You may have to repaint your entire ceiling to ensure it remains a uniform appearance.
2. Fix Damaged Roofing
Over the years, your roof sustains extensive damage because of normal wear and tear and various weather conditions. You should only make roof repairs when it’s not too hot or cold and when you can safely make the repairs. You can also go to your attic with a flashlight to check for signs of roof leaks. When you’re checking for roof damage in your attic, step up on secure framing and not the insulation to prevent injury.
3. Repair Roof Flashing
Missing or damaged shingles are not always the culprit for severe roof leaks. Improperly installed and broken flashing can also cause roof leaks. If you’re not comfortable making these repairs or inspecting your roof for flashing damage, it’s best to consult a handyman.
4. Clear and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are essential for removing water from your roof and discarding it away from your home so it doesn’t destroy your home’s foundation. Clogged downspouts and gutters can cause water damage to your roof. It’s best to clean your gutters when the weather is dry. Cleaning your gutters allows water to properly drain when it rains again.
5. Remove Water in Your Crawlspace or Basement
If you have water in your crawlspace or basement, remove it as quickly as possible. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, dark locations, making your basement or crawlspace the perfect place for mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew cause various issues with your respiratory health and cause skin irritations, watery eyes, and a runny nose.
6. Repair Your Storm Doors
Storm doors protect the exterior door, increase energy efficiency, keeps insects out of your home, and provides additional home security. Strong winds can bend or break your door, causing it to pull away from the doorjamb. Make the necessary repairs to your storm door when the weather is favorable.
7. Prevent Air Leaks
Air leaks in your home become evident when warm or cool air enters your home through and around the windows. You can prevent or lessen these drafts by replacing weatherstripping or installing new weatherstripping.
8. Replace Rotted Woodwork
There are three types of wood rot, including brown, white, and soft. Brown rot is often referred to as dry rot. This type of rot appears brown and targets the cellulose in the structure of the wood. White rot gives the wood a spongy texture and light yellow or white color. Soft rot decomposes wood slower than other types of rot. This type of rot also breaks down the cellulose in wood, creating a honeycomb appearance. Knowing what to look out for helps you know which wood to replace.
9. Enhance Your Lawn Care Efforts
Summertime is a great time to perfect your lawn care efforts. Fertilize your grass during the early summer to give it a boost in growth. Fertilizing your lawn during this time helps your grass grow thick and healthy. Apply the fertilizer in generous amounts but don’t overdo it because you risk burning your lawn.
10. Power Wash the Exterior of Your Home
Power Washing your home removes unsightly stains, increases the value of your home, improves curb appeal, and helps remove mold and mildew. Power washing your home also helps eliminate airborne contaminants. You should also power wash your driveway to remove oil stains.
11. Test Your Smoke Detectors
Test your smoke detectors to ensure they work. Replace the batteries if needed. Smoke alarms are a home essential because they alert you when smoke and fire are present in your home. These detectors can save your life when they are working correctly. Perform a smoke detector test and make sure you hear the alarm. If no alarm sound is present, replace the batteries or install a new smoke detector.
12. Prepare Your Cooling System
Your HVAC system should be maintained throughout the year. During the summer, have your system serviced and repaired if needed. You don’t want to be stuck in a heatwave with no air conditioning.
13. Focus on the Inside of Your Home
Use a duster to remove the dust, dirt, and other debris from your ceiling fans. Neglecting your ceiling fans circulates dust and dirt throughout your home, causing various health issues. You should also consider upgrading your furniture inside and outside of your home. There’s nothing better than having a cozy place to sit to enjoy nature. Check Home of Cozy for in-style furniture.
Summertime is a great time to get your house ready to enjoy during the hotter months and enjoy being outside more. Many of these home maintenance tasks can be completed by yourself or with a friend. If you need help, don’t hesitate to consult the expertise of a professional.
