Summer Maintenance Checklist

Home Maintenance: Summer

A key to protecting the investment you’ve made in your home is by following a regular maintenance schedule. By performing preventative maintenance on an on-going basis, you’ll avoid many of the big ticket repair items that can lower the value of your home.

Here are helpful checklists for monthly and Summer maintenance.

Monthly

  • Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector.
  • Check the filters on your heating and cooling systems.  Be sure to clean and change according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
  • If you have a humidifier or an electronic air filter, check these as well.
  • Check faucets for drips.  Check plumbing for leaks.

Inside

  • Deep clean carpets and rugs.
  • Vacuum air duct grills and bathroom fan grill.
  • Inspect your dryer’s lint duct.  Disconnect it from the dryer and vacuum out lint from the duct and areas surrounding your dryer.
  • Inspect windows and doorways.  Replace damaged caulking and weather stripping.
  • Have a thorough termite inspection if you don’t currently have a termite service.  Follow up on any treatment and repair recommendations.  It will save you money in the long run.
  • Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter
 Basement
  • Check pipes for condensation or dripping.
  • Check the basement floor trap to be sure it contains water.  Refill as necessary.
Outside
  • Power wash concrete patios, inspect decks and secure railings.
  • Inspect driveway and walk ways.  Make repairs as needed.
  • Remove or prune any plants, shrubs or trees that penetrate the foundation, siding or brick.
  • Check lawn sprinkler heads.
  • Check exterior siding and trim for signs of damage.  Clean, repair and/or replace as needed.
  • Check for and seal holes that could be an entry point for pests and rodents.
  • Make a visual inspection of your roof (or hire a professional to do so).  Note the general condition.  Sagging could be a sign of structural damage and should be checked by a professional.  Inspect all roof flashings, checking for signs of cracking or leakage.  Replace broken or damaged shingles as needed.
  • Inspect gutters and downspouts for clogs.
  • Inspect the chimney cap and caulking.
  • Sweep out chimneys connected to a fireplace or wood burning appliance.  Inspect the chimney for end-of-season problems.
  • Examine window screens, storm doors and putty/caulk lines around exterior windows and doors.
  • Clean the Outdoor Condenser on your air conditioner.
Garage
  • Test garage door to insure it is opening properly and hardware is secure.
  • Lubricate garage door hardware.  If you have a garage door opener, lubricate automatic garage door opener motor, chain, etc. and ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is properly adjusted.

Leave a Reply