June is finally here, bringing long days and warm evenings. That said, it’s the perfect time to give your home some TLC to prep for the summer ahead. From revamping your garage to reviewing your home insurance, here’s 10 areas to focus on to get your home in its best shape for the season.
1. Spruce Up Your Landscape
If you’re wanting to elevate your curb appeal this summer, these tips are for you:
- Weeding: Get rid of those pesky weeds that popped up during the spring.
- Pruning: Trim your trees and shrubs for a tidy, and well-maintained look.
- Planting: Add some colorful annuals or perennials to brighten up your home.
- Mulching: Mulch helps retain moisture, and it keeps your garden looking fresh.
2. Fire Up the Grill
What’s summer without a BBQ? Make sure your grill is ready to go:
- Clean the grill: Remove old grease and debris for better-tasting food.
- Check the propane: Ensure you have enough for your cookout.
- Inspect for wear and tear: Look over hoses and connections to prevent accidents.
3. Bug Control
Summer brings fun and…bugs. Keep them at bay with these tips:
- Seal cracks and crevices: Prevent entry points for pests.
- Use natural repellants: Citronella candles and essential oils are great options.
- Keep food sealed: Both inside and out, to avoid attracting unwanted house guests.
4. Service Your AC Unit
June’s warm days mean your air conditioner is about to work overtime. Before it does, give it some attention:
- Change the filters: Clean filters mean better air quality and efficiency
- Clean the vents: Dusty vents can restrict airflow and increase energy costs.
- Schedule a tune-up: A professional can ensure your A/C is in prime condition, saving you from surprise breakdowns in the summer heat.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
You know the rule – safety comes first. Especially when dealing with fire and silent killers. Make sure your home is protected by testing:
- Smoke detectors: Press the test button to make sure they’re working properly.
- Carbon monoxide detectors: Replace batteries and test functionality.
- Fire extinguishers: Check the expiration dates and pressure levels.
6. Organize Your Garage
It’s easy for the garage to become a catch-all for everything. Time to reclaim that space:
- Declutter: Sort through items and decide what to keep, sell, donate, or toss.
- Organize: Use shelves, hooks, and bins to keep things tidy.
- Create zones: Designate areas for tools, sports equipment, and other categories.
7. Revamp Indoor Spaces
Spring cleaning may be over, but some touch ups here and there never hurt:
- Deep Clean: Tackle those often-forgotten spots like baseboards, ceiling fans, and behind furniture.
- Clean out the fridge and pantry: Get rid of expired items and give the shelves a good wipe down.
- Declutter: Lighten up your space by getting rid of items you no longer need.
- Rearrange: Sometimes a new furniture layout can breathe fresh life into a room.
8. Prep the Pool
Have a pool? – make sure it’s ready for summer fun:
- Clean it: Remove debris and scrub the sides.
- Check the water: Test and adjust the chemical levels for a safe swim.
- Inspect equipment: Make sure the pump, filter, and other equipment are working properly.
9. Refresh Outdoor Entertainment Areas
Your outdoor spaces have been waiting for this:
- Clean it up: Wipe down tables and chairs, and wash cushion covers.
- Clear the way: Remove any debris or hazards from paths and walkways to prevent accidents or worse, liability claims.
- Check for repairs: Fix any wobbly legs or loose screws.
- Add some flair: New cushions or a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference.
- Added ambiance: Add strings lights or other outdoor lighting options to create a cozy space to relax once the sun goes down.
10. Review Your Home Insurance
This is a biggie. Take a moment and review your home insurance policy before summer is in full swing:
- Update your policy: If you’ve made any significant upgrades or renovations to your home, let your insurance provider know.
- Check your coverage: Make sure you’re adequately covered for any summer-related incidents, storm damage, break-ins, or accidents around the pool.
With a little maintenance now, you’ll save yourself a lot of headaches later. You’ll keep your home comfortable, safe, and looking its best. Not to mention you’ll be prepared for the unexpected by reviewing and updating your home insurance policy. Your home will thank you, and you’ll enjoy a stress-free summer.