10 Home Maintenance Tips To Keep Your House In Shape This Summer

We all know how important it is to maintain our home, but sometimes it’s hard to remember everything that needs to be done. Fortunately, at Home+, we have you covered with this list of top 10 home maintenance tasks and easy living hacks that you need to get done this summer!

Hacks to Keep Your Home Cool

1. Cool as a cucumber this summer 

To keep your home cool during the summer months, make the most of natural ventilation by opening windows and doors when the outside temperature is cooler than inside. You can also use fans to circulate air and create a refreshing breeze.  Top tip: placing a dish filled with ice cubes in front of a fan is a good way to cool down during a heatwave. 

Additionally, make sure to close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day to prevent heat from entering your home. And lastly, don’t forget about your air conditioner! By properly maintaining your AC unit, you can ensure that it runs efficiently all summer long.

2. Protect your home from bug invasions

Summertime means more time with the doors and windows open, which gives bugs the opportunity to make their way into your home. To keep bugs outside, it’s a good idea to seal any cracks or openings around doors and windows, and to use bug screens. Keep food sealed and stored properly to avoid contamination and consider using natural insect repellents like citronella candles, incense or essential oils to deter bugs without resorting to harmful chemicals.

3. Manage fire hazards 

With warmer weather comes an increased risk of fire hazards in the home. To prevent any accidents, be sure to inspect all electrical cords and appliances for any frays, and avoid overloading power outlets. 

4. Fix a dripping tap or leaky showerhead

If any of your taps, pipes or showerheads leak, it is important to fix it without delay. A leak can waste a lot of water and money, so it’s best to nip the problem in the bud.

Once you’ve identified the cause of the leak, you can find a video tutorial online to fix it. If you’re not sure how to do this, or if the leak persists, please call a plumber for assistance.

5. Prevent mould or mildew

Along with being unsightly, mould and mildew can lead to serious health problems, so preventative action is best. In humid climates, use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep indoor humidity low. Keep bathrooms well ventilated, and use exhaust fans when showering or cooking. Clean up mould promptly, and repair leaks or other pools of water as soon as possible.

6. Get clean, stay clean

Summer is the perfect time to deep clean your house from top to bottom. Start by decluttering each room and cleaning out the closets. Then, focus on cleaning the floors and walls, dusting all surfaces, and spend some time scrubbing the bathrooms and kitchen. Don’t forget to wash all your windows inside and out! By taking care of your home now, you’ll be able to enjoy the summer months stress-free.

7. Upgrade your paving, driveway or stepping stones

If your stepping stones or walkway look a little worse for wear, give them a facelift with some new gravel or pavers. You can find gravel and pavers at any home improvement store, and they’re relatively easy to install. Just make sure to measure the area first so you know how much material you’ll need. As with everything else, there are plenty of tutorials online if you need a nudge in the right direction. 

8. Add a plant or a piece of furniture to complement your home

When it comes to home maintenance, one of the quickest ways to keep your house in shape is to add greenery or furniture to make it more welcoming. Not only will this make your home look better, but can improve your mood and your home’s value. When choosing plants or furniture, be sure to pick something that fits in with the style of your home. If you have a modern home, you’ll want to avoid anything too bo-ho or frilly. Instead, look for sleek lines and simple designs. 

Whatever you choose, be sure to take proper care of it. Water plants regularly, dust and polish wooden furniture often to keep them looking their best. With a little bit of effort, it shouldn’t be hard to keep your home looking great all summer long. 

9. Check out what’s in your garage or storage unit 

If you’re like most people, your garage is probably full of things you don’t need or use anymore. Now is a great time to sort through everything and get rid of anything you don’t want or need. You can either donate items to a local charity or list the items on Facebook Marketplace to make some extra cash. Either way, decluttering will help keep your home in better shape this summer.

10. Seal and paint that wall, and that wall, and that wall

To give your home a fresh look, start by filling and sealing any gaps or cracks in the walls or trim. Once the seal is dry, paint over any areas that need it. You may also want to power wash your home’s exterior before painting to remove any dirt or grime and prevent the paint from peeling. 

Home maintenance is a year-round job, but if you spread out the tasks, it doesn’t have to become overwhelming. Remember that your house is your biggest investment, and it needs regular care and attention to look good and maintain its value.