Summer is the perfect time to give your home’s exterior a little extra attention. Between the intense heat, summer storms, and humidity, your home’s roof, siding, gutters, and yard can take a beating. Keeping your home well-maintained during these months not only ensures that it looks great but also helps to protect it from potential damage. Whether you’re preparing for upcoming storms or simply want to maintain your home’s curb appeal, here’s your ultimate summer checklist for exterior home maintenance.

Inspect Your Roof

Your roof is your first line of defense against the elements, and summer storms can put it to the test. Ensure that your roof is in good condition and ready to handle heavy rain, high winds, and even hail.

• Look for shingle damage: Look for cracked, missing, or loose shingles, especially after a storm. If you see any signs of damage, schedule a roof inspection to identify any hidden issues.
• Check the flashing: Make sure the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is intact and not showing signs of wear.
• Clean the roof: Use a leaf blower or hire a professional to clear any debris, such as leaves or branches, from the roof.

Maintain Your Gutters

Gutters play a crucial role in channeling rainwater away from your home’s foundation, but they can easily get clogged with debris, especially during the summer when trees shed leaves and twigs. Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your roof, siding, and foundation.

• Clean your gutters: Clean your gutters at least twice a year—once in the spring and again in early summer. Remove leaves, twigs, and dirt from your gutters to ensure proper drainage.
• Check for damage: Look for sagging or disconnected gutters, as well as any leaks or holes. If needed, repair or replace gutters to keep them functioning properly.
• Install gutter guards: Consider adding gutter guards to reduce the frequency of cleaning and keep large debris from clogging your gutters.

Inspect and Clean Your Siding

Your siding is not only a major part of your home’s curb appeal, but it also protects the structure from the elements. Over time, dirt, mold, mildew, and weather damage can take a toll on your siding.

• Clean your siding: Power wash your siding to remove dirt, algae, and other buildup. Be sure to use the correct pressure setting to avoid damaging the material.
• Look for signs of damage: Check for cracks, holes, or warped sections of siding that may need to be replaced or repaired. Vinyl siding, in particular, is durable but may need occasional attention after extreme weather events.
• Consider re-sealing: If your home has wooden siding, consider re-sealing it to protect against moisture and summer heat.

Check and Clean Windows and Doors

Windows and doors play a vital role in maintaining your home’s energy efficiency and security. Summer heat can cause issues if seals are worn out, letting cool air escape and letting warm air in.

• Check for window and door frame damage: Inspect window and door frames for signs of damage, such as gaps, cracks, or loose seals. Replace any damaged weather stripping or seals to ensure energy efficiency.
• Clean the windows: Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to clean your windows inside and out. Don’t forget to clean the screens as well, as they can accumulate dust and debris during the summer months.

Inspect and Maintain Your Yard

Your yard takes a beating during the summer months, especially with the heat and regular storms. Proper maintenance helps protect your landscaping and improves your home’s curb appeal.

• Mow the lawn: Mow the lawn regularly and trim any overgrown bushes or trees that may be blocking windows or interfering with gutters.
• Watering: Ensure your sprinkler system is working efficiently to keep your lawn and plants hydrated during the hot summer months.
• Tree maintenance: Trim any dead or damaged branches that could become a hazard during summer storms, preventing them from damaging your roof, siding, or windows.
• Check your fencing: Inspect your fences for signs of wear, such as cracks or leaning sections. Repair or replace any damaged fencing to maintain security and privacy.

Check Outdoor Plumbing and Irrigation Systems

Summer is the time when you’ll be using your outdoor plumbing systems the most, from watering your garden to washing your car. It’s important to make sure everything is functioning properly.

• Inspect exterior water systems: Inspect your hoses, faucets, and irrigation systems for leaks or damage. Replace any worn-out hoses and ensure that your irrigation system is providing adequate water coverage for your landscaping.
• Clean gutters and downspouts: Make sure the downspouts are properly directing water away from your foundation, especially during summer rainstorms.

Keep Your Home Safe and Beautiful This Summer

Proper summer maintenance is essential to keeping your home looking great and ensuring it’s ready to handle the heat and storms that come with the season. By following this checklist, you’ll protect your home’s exterior and reduce the risk of costly damage caused by weather, wear, or neglect.

If you’re ready to tackle your home’s summer maintenance or need help with roof inspections, gutter replacements, or siding repairs, contact Advanced Restorations today . Our experts are here to assist you in keeping your home in top shape all year round.