We turned to a few of our favorite experts to ask for their ultimate summer project checklist, and here’s what they had to say. “Ensure your air conditioning unit is running efficiently ahead of the summer heat,” Bidwell says. “Replace your AC’s filter every 45-90 days, use a fan to help circulate airflow inside the home, and keep tall grass trimmed around the exterior condenser unit.” But your home’s efficiency doesn’t stop there. There are other ways to ensure your aircon unit is working to its potential. “Reduce energy loss and outside noise by installing double-pane windows in your home,” Bidwell expertly suggests, as this will deflect the sun’s rays and regulate temperature. And as one final piece of your home’s efficiency puzzle: select and update light fixtures and bulbs. Bidwell advises choosing energy-saving LED or solar-driven options.” “The lawn is an area that homeowners sometimes overlook, but it requires summertime maintenance, too,” Steckel says. “To keep your turf green, lush, and free of weeds or bare patches, consider aerating and overseeding your lawn to prevent and alleviate soil compaction, fill in bare patches, and thicken your lawn. Cut in fresh lines to the garden beds, and add some mulch.” This last one is worth considering almost year-round. “Depending on where you live and the climate, you may want to do these tasks in early or late summer, early fall, or mid-late spring,” Steckel says. “Remove concrete stains, dirt, and mildew to keep your home looking fresh with a power wash, and freshen up your yard’s decks and fences with exterior painting or staining,” says Bidwell. “Then, light up outdoor spaces by installing string lights, hanging tree lamps, or other accent lighting options.” What’s on the task list? Clean your outdoor furniture, add sealants to furniture in need, and touch up any exterior paint. Additionally, before inviting friends and family over for an outdoor gathering, inspect your patio or deck for cracks and peeling paint. “This damage could mean you are due for repairs or repainting,” Steckel notes. While many summer refreshes can be completed with simple projects, summer is also the perfect time for upgrades to your space. “Adding fire features, such as gas fireplaces or fire tables, creates the perfect place for socialization and totally changes the atmosphere of your backyard or entertaining space,” Steckel tells us. “Additionally, if you’re going to be adding a fire feature and you’re already a major griller, now might be the time to bring a gas line to the yard to do away with those pesky propane tanks.” “Clean your filter, and check the chemicals and water quality to ensure you avoid costly repairs during the summer,” Steckel suggests. “Also, be sure to take care of any damage from the colder months.” “Prevent flooding, water damage, mold, and standing water by cleaning your home’s gutters,” he says. “You can also prevent possible damage to the roof of your home and neighboring structures by trimming any surrounding vegetation.” Bidwell also suggests calling a professional to service your home’s generator and sump pump to make sure they are operating properly before the summer starts. You should take some time to also familiarize yourself with the location of the main water shutoff in your home and how to use it.
