With spring finally here, that means summer is inching closer and closer around the corner. You may think all you need to do to get ready for the season change is pack away the sweaters and pull out the shorts and bathing suits. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy. Before summer starts, there are some extra outdoor projects to do. Once the April showers have cleared up, utilize your weekends in May to get your to-dos finished up by the time Memorial Day rolls around! Get out your May calendar to write down when you plan on tackling the following 5 projects so you can be sure your home is ready for the first big outdoor gathering of the season.
1. Check the Roof:
Now that the harsh cold weather has passed, give your roof a look for any damage that may have occurred during the winter. Cracked, or missing shingles, rust, and cracked caulk around skylights and pipes are all signs of damage.
You’ll be glad you caught them early instead of discovering a major leak when you get back from your big vacation.
2. Service the AC Unit:
There is nothing worse than discovering your AC unit has gone kaput in the middle of a heat wave. Before HVAC companies are booked solid, now might be the best time to have your unit inspected.
If you want to check it before calling a professional, turn on your unit and make sure it’s cooling properly. It’s also a good idea to change your filter at the start of a new season, so your unit runs quickly and more efficiently!
3. Spruce Up the Yard:
Before everyone gets back outside, be sure to inspect all of your playground equipment and areas for winter damage like rust, new sharp edges, and screws that may be more exposed. Hose the dust off of that lawn and patio furniture that’s been in storage to be ready for your next outdoor party!
Now is also a great time to take advantage of sales at your local nursery and get your garden and flower boxes planted.
4. Check Your Outdoor Appliances:
Make sure your gas grill is ready and all the hoses and connections are secure. Now may be a good time to stock up on propane before you realize you’re running low in the middle of a family barbecue! Charcoal grills may need a good scrub to get rid of lingering grease and ash from last season.
Your gas lawn mowers and weed wackers will need new gas if there’s any left over from last season. You may need to replace the oil and spark plugs, as well as sharpen the mower blade as well.
If you don’t feel comfortable tackling this chore on your own, take your equipment to a professional before they get busy and booked up.
5. Clean the Windows:
It just takes some simple window cleaning solution and a good squeegee to bring some sparkle back to your windows that have been batting against the harsh winter weather.
Look for signs of rot and water damage from accumulated snow and ice while you’re cleaning. If you see any damaged spots, you may need to re-caulk or replace weather stripping to ensure you keep your cool air inside as things heat up.
Get Started
Now that you know what maintenance you need to do before summer, it’s time to get started! With these simple chores completed early, you’ll be on your way to relaxing in the back yard and enjoying summer in no time.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
Speak Your Mind