People often spend up to 90% of their time indoors, and as summer approaches, it’s time to tackle the maintenance tasks that will make your home look and feel its best. Money is often a deterrent when it comes to performing tasks around the home, but with the right budget, basic maintenance will be easy. From power washing your driveway and sidewalk to patching up loose roof shingles, there are several essential items to add to your summer maintenance checklist. By staying proactive and addressing these tasks, you can ensure that your curb appeal remains on point throughout the season.
Powerwash Your Driveway and Sidewalk
A clean and well-maintained driveway and sidewalk instantly enhance the appearance of your home. Over time, dirt, grime, and stains can accumulate, detracting from your curb appeal. Powerwashing is an effective solution to restore the fresh look of these surfaces. According to House Digest, the average lifetime of an asphalt driveway is between 15 to 30 years. By regularly power washing your driveway and sidewalk, you can extend their lifespan while maintaining their pristine appearance.
Patch Up Loose Roof Shingles
Your roof is crucial to your home’s exterior, protecting it from the elements. Loose or damaged shingles can lead to leaks and further structural issues. Inspecting your roof regularly, especially after winter, is essential to identify any shingles needing repair. According to This Old House, three benefits of whole-attic insulation include improved comfort year-round, lower heating and cooling costs each month, and better air quality. By patching up loose shingles promptly, you can maintain your roof’s integrity and prevent potential water damage.
Replace Your Old Garden Hose
As summer brings warmer weather and increased gardening and outdoor activities, ensuring your garden hose is in good condition is essential. Over time, hoses can become worn, develop leaks, or lose flexibility. Replace your old garden hose to avoid any inconvenience when watering your plants or washing your car. A new hose will provide consistent water flow and prevent wastage. Remember to stay conscious of water conservation during the summer months. Only 3% of Earth’s water is fresh water, and it’s crucial to use it responsibly. Consider installing water-efficient irrigation systems or using rainwater harvesting techniques to minimize water wastage in your garden.
Refresh Your Exterior Paint
The summer season provides an excellent opportunity to refresh your home’s exterior paint. Over time, sun exposure, rain, and other weather elements can cause color to fade, chip, or peel. Repainting your home’s exterior enhances its curb appeal and protects it from further damage. Before painting, ensure the surface is clean and free of dirt and loose paint. Apply a fresh coat of paint that complements your home’s style and surroundings, and watch as your home regains its vibrancy and allure.
Spend Some Time in the Garden
Overgrown trees and shrubs can make your property appear unkempt and pose safety hazards. Take the time to prune and trim trees and shrubs during summer. Remove dead or diseased branches, eliminate excessive growth, and shape the plants to maintain a tidy appearance.
Enhance Your Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in aesthetics and safety. Upgrade your outdoor lighting fixtures to enhance curb appeal during the summer evenings. Install energy-efficient LED lights along pathways, illuminate focal points such as trees or architectural features, and consider adding accent lighting to highlight your garden. Well-placed and properly functioning outdoor lights create an inviting ambiance while improving visibility and security around your property.
There are many small steps you can take to maintain your home without breaking your budget. Focus on the biggest priorities first, and use the remaining budget to enhance your home’s exterior. When you spend time doing small things like pruning shrubs and giving your home a fresh layer of paint, you dramatically improve your home’s curb appeal.
