Summer Home Maintenance Checklist: A New Homeowner’s Guide

With warmer temperatures and sunny weather, summer is the perfect time to get work on some outdoor projects. Summer might be well underway, but it’s not too late to knock some items off your summer maintenance home checklist. So whether you just bought a house in Chicago or a longtime homeowner in Denver, here are the top tasks to prioritize before the season ends.

1. Repair or replace damaged window screens

Damaged window screens might seem like a small detail for a new homeowner, but they play a big role when it comes to keeping your home comfortable and insect-free. They also help with ventilation, allowing fresh air to circulate while keeping pests outside – something you’ll appreciate on warm summer nights. Fixing them now allows you to let fresh air into your home while keeping pests at bay.

DIY window screen repair tip: If you don’t know how to repair a window screen, there isn’t too much to it. For small tears, a screen repair patch kit can get the job done. For larger holes or tears, you can buy new screen material and spline, and replace the entire screen yourself with a screen rolling tool.

2. Repair and repaint the exterior siding and walls

Maintaining your home’s exterior siding is crucial for protecting your investment and preventing future headaches. Over time, siding can crack, warp, peel, or fade, allowing water to seep into your home’s walls. This can lead to mold, rotting, and structural issues that are expensive to fix.

Take a walk around your home and carefully inspect all exterior surfaces. Address cracks, peeling paint, or loose siding promptly to prevent bigger problems down the line.

3. Check and repair your roof

As a new homeowner, the roof is one of the most vital components of your home. A damaged roof can lead to leaks, water damage inside your home, and even structural problems in extreme cases.

Summer’s clear weather makes it easier to spot problems. Inspect your roof from the ground with binoculars, or if you’re comfortable and have the proper safety equipment, from a ladder. Look for any missing, cracked, or curled shingles, as these are signs of wear and potential vulnerability to leaks. 

If you spot any minor issues, such as a lifted shingle, you might be able to carefully secure it with roofing cement. For larger concerns, contact a qualified roofing professional to ensure your home stays protected.

4. Perform maintenance on your AC unit

Your AC unit plays a key role in keeping your home comfortable during the summer heat. Regular upkeep helps your unit run efficiently, which not only keeps your home cool but also saves you money on energy bills. A well-maintained AC unit is less likely to break down, avoiding costly repairs and uncomfortable summer days.

DIY AC maintenance tip: Replace or clean your air filters monthly during heavy use. For the outdoor unit, clear away any leaves, dirt, or debris within a two-foot radius so airflow isn’t blocked. Consider scheduling a professional tune-up once a year to keep the system running efficiently.

5. Inspect and clean outdoor grills and other appliances

Summer often means enjoying your outdoor spaces, which can mean gatherings in the backyard or on the patio for new homeowners. Make sure you thoroughly clean your grill and other outdoor appliances so they’re safe and ready for use. This can prevent grease fires and ensure your equipment lasts longer, so you can fully enjoy your backyard.

DIY grill cleaning tip: Clean the grates thoroughly after each use. For a deeper clean, remove the grates and burner covers, scrub them with warm soapy water, and clear any clogged burner holes.

6. Power wash exterior surfaces

A thorough power wash can make your home’s exterior look like new. Dirt, grime, and mildew build up on decks, patios, driveways, and siding. Power washing not only improves curb appeal but also helps protect surfaces from damage. Be careful with wood and painted areas—use the right pressure setting to avoid stripping paint or splintering wood.

7. Clean your home’s gutters and downspouts

Gutters tend to get more attention during the fall and winter, but clearing them during the summer will save you all kinds of headaches. Gutters are a critical part of your home to maintain because they control rainwater flow from the roof, which is important for protecting the house’s walls and foundation. 

DIY gutter cleaning tip: You can often clean gutters yourself using a ladder, gloves, and a small trowel or scoop for clearing debris. Flush the downspouts with a hose to ensure water flows freely. Always have someone spot you if you’re using a ladder.

8. Seal driveways and decks

Sealing your driveway and deck is a crucial step for new homeowners looking to protect their outdoor investments. These surfaces can crack and fade over time, and summer is the perfect time to take steps to protect them. Clean surfaces thoroughly before applying to ensure the sealant adheres properly.

9. Inspect and repair your home’s sprinkler system

Keeping your lawn and garden healthy in the summer heat means making sure your sprinkler system is working efficiently. Check for leaks, clogged heads, and uneven spray patterns. Adjust the timing so you’re not watering in the middle of the day when evaporation is highest.

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