Summer is here, and the weather is warm, so naturally, thoughts turn to home improvement projects. These projects will not only add beauty and value to your home, but they will also help prevent problems, save you money and keep your home in tip-top shape. Read on for a checklist of summer maintenance projects both outside and inside your home. 

Outdoor Home Maintenance/Home Improvement Projects

• Restain and reseal deck – Start by power washing your deck, but keep the pressure low as you can damage the wood. Then make sure you stain with the proper stain for your wood. If you have any boards that are rotting, replace them. Also, hammer down any loose nails. To check to see if your deck needs to be resealed, pour some water on it. If the water beads up, you don’t need to reseal, but you do need to reseal if it gets absorbed into the wood.
• Power wash or replace siding – Consider power washing your siding to get rid of dust, dirt or mold. You can do this yourself, but it might be easier to hire a professional. Also, check for any loose or rotted siding and have it replaced by a professional.
• Check exterior paint – Check for chipped, cracked or fading exterior paint on your home and repaint. This will improve your home’s curb appeal and protect it from the elements.
• Clean and, if necessary, replace gutters and downspouts – Though this is typically considered a job for spring and fall, summer is a good time to clean your gutters as well due to summer storms and high winds. If your gutters are sagging or leaking, it’s probably time to replace them.
• Repair or replace your roof – Have your roof inspected for damage or holes that can contribute to water damage in your home. If your roof needs to be replaced, summer is the time to do it.
• Check foundation for cracks– Inspect your foundation for cracks or leaks and have them repaired. Cracks in the foundation can create an entry point for water, insects or radon.
• Landscaping – Landscaping adds about 15% to your home’s value. Consider adding some annuals for a pop of color or planting a garden. You can also add mulch to your landscaping to keep the weeds out and the moisture in.
• Walkways and driveways – Consider power washing your driveway and walkways. Repair any cracks and have them resealed. Cracks in your driveway or walkway can lead to damage from standing or freezing water.

Indoor Home Maintenance Projects

• Wash windows – Washing your windows inside and out will let more light stream into your home. Remember to clean the screens too using warm soapy water.
• Check windows and doors for leaks – Check the caulking on your windows and doors and repair any leaks to improve your home’s energy efficiency and keep out bugs.
• Have HVAC units serviced – Change the filters and have your units inspected and serviced to make them last longer.
• Clean dryer vent – A clogged dryer vent can cause a house fire. Cleaning dust and lint from your dryer vent could prevent a tragedy.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – Test your smoke detectors and replace the batteries if needed. Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working as well.
• Clean faucet traps – This is the small screen at the end of your faucet where mineral deposits and other debris can cause clogging. To clean, unscrew the end of the faucet with pliers and remove the trap to flush out any debris.

Looking for real estate services in Gainesville, Haymarket or Bristow? Contact your local real estate expert Belinda Jacobson-Loehle of Jacobson Realty and Home Staging In Gainesville, Virginia today. Also be sure to sign up now for a FREE copy of my eBook, “The Real Estate Key – What You Need to Know!”

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