Last Minute Summer Maintenance Tips
By Shondell Varcianna
August 22, 2014
Lifestyle
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While you may think that August is a little too late for summer maintenance, the truth is that when it comes to increasing the livability and longevity of your home, it's never too late to do what’s needed around the home. Your home is exposed to heat, rain and the onslaught of bugs in the summer. If you haven't had the time for repair and maintenance, now would be a great time before the winter rolls around.
Here are 5 last-minute maintenance tips for the summer:
1. Clean the roof and attic
The roof and attic are arguably the most neglected parts of your home since you hardly ever need to go there. Not only do they accumulate dust and debris during the summer, they also attract birds and pests in search of a home. So if you haven't been up there for a while, take the time to inspect them. If you find dust, debris and animal droppings, remove them. If an animal has been living there, chase it away and consider disinfecting the entire area.
2. Clean the ventilators and chimneys
The ventilators and chimneys in your home are magnets for dust and insects. If you neglect to clean them for too long, they may even become a home to rats, mice, pigeons and sparrows. Clogged ventilators and chimneys are not only inefficient; they can also be hazardous to your health. While you can clean dirty ventilators and chimneys with a broom, it may be better to hire a contractor if you think you are not up to the task.
3. Clean the gutters and downspouts:
The gutters and downspouts can become loose, clogged or damaged during summer. The biggest danger is of water damage when they start leaking or overflowing. Don't wait until your rooms become inundated with water. Inspect the gutters and downspouts and assess the situation. If any parts have become loose, tighten them. If they are clogged, clean them. If they are damaged, you may want to call a contractor to have them repaired or replaced.
4. Check the air conditioners
Air conditioners attract a lot of dust and debris and lose their efficiency over time. The dust usually accumulates on the filter, blocking the inflow of air. If your air conditioner is not as efficient as it used to be, the culprit is usually the filter covered in dust. To ensure high-efficiency, the filters must be replaced every month. If you are not sure how to check them, have them checked and repaired by a licensed HVAC technician.
5. Clean the grouts and caulking:
The grouts and caulking around tubs, sinks, showers, doors and windows are susceptible to damage in the summer. Deteriorated caulking and grouts can lead to loosening of the components, which can lead to water leakage and mould growth. Check the grouts and caulking and replace them if they have deteriorated or are showing signs of deterioration. If you have never done it before, then definitely contact a contractor for the job.
Photo by Legendary Homes
Here are 5 last-minute maintenance tips for the summer:
1. Clean the roof and attic
The roof and attic are arguably the most neglected parts of your home since you hardly ever need to go there. Not only do they accumulate dust and debris during the summer, they also attract birds and pests in search of a home. So if you haven't been up there for a while, take the time to inspect them. If you find dust, debris and animal droppings, remove them. If an animal has been living there, chase it away and consider disinfecting the entire area.
2. Clean the ventilators and chimneys
The ventilators and chimneys in your home are magnets for dust and insects. If you neglect to clean them for too long, they may even become a home to rats, mice, pigeons and sparrows. Clogged ventilators and chimneys are not only inefficient; they can also be hazardous to your health. While you can clean dirty ventilators and chimneys with a broom, it may be better to hire a contractor if you think you are not up to the task.
3. Clean the gutters and downspouts:
The gutters and downspouts can become loose, clogged or damaged during summer. The biggest danger is of water damage when they start leaking or overflowing. Don't wait until your rooms become inundated with water. Inspect the gutters and downspouts and assess the situation. If any parts have become loose, tighten them. If they are clogged, clean them. If they are damaged, you may want to call a contractor to have them repaired or replaced.
4. Check the air conditioners
Air conditioners attract a lot of dust and debris and lose their efficiency over time. The dust usually accumulates on the filter, blocking the inflow of air. If your air conditioner is not as efficient as it used to be, the culprit is usually the filter covered in dust. To ensure high-efficiency, the filters must be replaced every month. If you are not sure how to check them, have them checked and repaired by a licensed HVAC technician.
5. Clean the grouts and caulking:
The grouts and caulking around tubs, sinks, showers, doors and windows are susceptible to damage in the summer. Deteriorated caulking and grouts can lead to loosening of the components, which can lead to water leakage and mould growth. Check the grouts and caulking and replace them if they have deteriorated or are showing signs of deterioration. If you have never done it before, then definitely contact a contractor for the job.
Photo by Legendary Homes