Summer is here! That means it’s time to enjoy outdoor activities with friends and family and get your home maintenance project list in order. Homeowners should take time to give some TLC to their property to minimize the risk of damage or injuries.
Completing some simple home maintenance projects during the summer months can help improve your home, keeping you and your loved ones as safe as possible. Here’s a home maintenance checklist with 10 easy maintenance projects to keep your home in great shape:
Cracks in your foundation or moisture in your basement are indicators of ground water surrounding the exterior of your home, humid air condensing in your basement or indoor moisture from bathrooms, humidifiers, air conditioners, etc.
Look fo2r and fill any cracks in your driveway or concrete patio.This step can reduce tripping hazards and keep weeds from growing through the cracks.
2. Check your deck for rotted wood, loose nails, raised boards and overall structural integrity.
Keep an eye out for loose boards and steps that bounce under pressure. You should also check to see if weather stripping calls for your deck to be stained or resealed to extend its life.
3. Grab a ladder and check for any loose or leaky gutters.
While you’re up there, make sure the gutters are clear of any leaves or debris. Sagging gutters, stained siding and water in your basement can be indicators your gutters are clogged.
4. Look for any trees in your yard that have exposed roots that could cause a tripping hazard.
Cover exposed roots with a mulch bed around the base of your tree to create a natural barrier. For exposed roots several feet away from the tree trunk, consider adding a bench or yard décor over the roots to eliminate tripping.
5. Check your wooden patio furniture that may be weathered and give it a good sanding to avoid causing any splinters or cuts.
Consider inspecting and sanding wooden deck railings if you have a deck as well.
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6. If you have a fire pit, add some decorative stones or other landscaping around it to minimize injury risk.
This is a great barrier to keep friends and family at a safe distance from the fire and reduce the risk of tripping near the pit.
7. Make sure your air conditioning system is working properly by giving it a good cleaning.
Don’t know where to start? Check out HGTV’s easy guide to cleaning your air conditioning unit.
8. Inspect and clean your dryer vent.
Each year, thousands of house fires are caused by dryer vents that get clogged with lint. Give your external dryer vent a good cleaning. Check out this simple video to walk you through the process.
9. Check to see that your dehumidifier is working properly.
And double check to make sure it isn’t on the recall list. If your dehumidifier is recalled, replace it as soon as possible.
One last tip: if you’re doing any project that requires digging in your yard, always call the experts who can help you locate underground electric, gas and other facilities. No matter what state you live in, just dial 811 for Diggers Hotline, Gopher State One Call or Iowa One Call.
Which of these home improvement projects are you going to tackle this weekend? Use this home maintenance checklist all summer long to keep your property clean and safe.
This article is for informational and suggestion purposes only. Implementing one or more of these suggestions does not guarantee coverage. If any policy coverage descriptions in this article conflict with the language in the policy, the language in the policy applies. For full details on Integrity’s home insurance coverages and discounts, contact your local, independent Integrity insurance agent.
Sources
HGTV
Today’s Homeowner
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Diggers Hotline
Gopher State One Call
Iowa One Call