Summer Checklist to Keep Your Home in Tip Top Shape

Summer has started! The birds are chirping, the grass is green, and finally there’s time to complete the summer checklist to keep your home in tip top shape. That means it’s time to spruce up your home with a good cleaning!  If you’re like me, you hop from one job to the other and things never really feel done.  Here’s a checklist to keep us both on track! Keeping your home exterior well maintained not only helps its appearance but also prevents expensive repairs from seasons of neglect.  That said, it’s time to enjoy the weather and show your house a little TLC. 

If your house needs more than a little TLC, brick&batten is happy to partner with you on a virtual exterior design, where simple cosmetic changes create a huge impact on curb appeal. Until then, follow this checklist to prepare your home for summer and keep your home in tip top shape!

#1. Yard Needs:

A well manicured yard is a never ending endeavor.  It requires weekend effort to stay on top of the maintenance.  First thing, take a long hard look at your yard.  Are there dead spots, leaves hiding under bushes, or weeds growing in your flower bed?  If so, note things that bother you. Writing them down makes it easier to go back and tackle.  There is also great satisfaction in marking through items on an outdoor to do list when they are completed. Second, make sure your tools are in working order.  Are batteries charged on the blower, mower works properly, and trimmers sharp?  If so, you are ready to get to work.  For more details on how to prepare your lawn this summer, read here.

#2.  Pressure Wash:

It’s time to pressure wash your deck, patio, walkway, and even your house exterior.  A pressure washer uses water to blast away dirt and grime.  Homeowners can get an electric or gas pressure washer and set between 1,300 and 2,400 psi for best results.  Usually electric washers are best for cars, grills, and garage floors.  Gas washers are good for cleaning siding, decks, patios, and concrete.  Whether you buy a pressure washer or rent one at your local hardware store, pressure washing is an important part of spring maintenance.  

#3.  Gutters:  

Gutters are often overlooked, especially in the summertime.  You think spring is over and storms are unlikely; however, this is when gutters are really needed!  Spring and summer come with rain…and when it rains your gutters become extremely important. Gutters are needed to channel water away from your home’s foundation.  Over time, a home without gutters may acquire foundation issues due to water seeping in around the base of your house. Clogged gutters and downspouts may prevent water from draining away from your home.  If downspouts are clogged, you may use a plumber’s snake to break through the debris.  There are also gutter guards which act as a screen.  These can be installed to the top of the gutter to help keep clogging materials such as leaves, sticks, nests, etc. out of the draining area.  

#4. Windows:

Summer rain, pollen, lawn mowing debris, and dirt cause a buildup on windows and take away from the beautiful shine.  Now is the time to give your windows a good cleaning inside and outside.  For your home’s exterior, we recommend you use vinegar, warm water, and newspaper.  You will achieve the sparkle without the streak! We found 6 other amazing homemade window cleaner remedies for a deeper clean… to keep your windows looking like new.  

#5. ROOF:

Early summer is a great time to check your roof for any damage done from winter weather, spring storms or hail.  Do you see loose shingles, mold, mildew, or moss? Is your roof sagging or protruding in different areas? If so, these items need to be addressed right away.  Don’t wait until these exterior roof problems become interior water issues.  If you suspect hail damage or damage to your roof,  many insurance companies will come out with a drone and inspect your roof for free! Who knows… you may even earn free repairs or a new roof!

Overall, don’t let another summer pass you by without a little TLC for your home’s exterior.  Your home is your greatest investment and spring maintenance can go a long way in keeping your home in tip top shape.