10 tips to getting your home ready for summer

Most of us endure the winter with the thought of the warmer spring and summer seasons helping us get through the cold in the first place. You may be ready for the summer heat long before hand, but is your home also? Here are some friendly reminders to help you get your home ready for summer – both inside and out.

1 | Change your air filter

Keep the circulating air in your home as particle-free as can be by changing your air filter. Some people do this every month or two during spring and summer. Air filters are found at your local home department stores such as RONA, The Home Depot and Canadian Tire. Make sure to check your filter size before you go to avoid wasting any time.

2 | Test & clean your air-conditioning system

Do you have a built-in air-conditioning system in your home? Now would be the time to test it. You may have to clean your ventilation system if its spewing out too much dirt; it’s better to know that long before the inside of your home turns into a sauna and you need your air-conditioning to work.

3 | Buy an air-conditioner

Older homes and condominiums without built-in air-conditioning systems can get quite hot and stuffy during the summer. Why not avoid this altogether and buy a quality air-conditioner? Having one of these things around can make or break your comfort, especially when going to sleep at night. No one wants to wake up from a restful slumber because of a hot, stuffy room – it’s the worst!

4 | Buy a fan or two

A mechanical fan can work wonders when placed by a door or near a screen. If you live in a condo without air-conditioning, a small fan set on high placed at the bottom of your screen door may be enough to get the air circulating enough where it cools down your entire home. This can also help cool down entire sections of single-family homes.

5 | Clean your screens

Door/window screens tend to build up dirt and other residue a lot quicker than expected during the warmer seasons. To get full enjoyment out of that summer breeze, it’s recommended that you clean your screens in a large sink or with a light spray from the garden hose on the deck. The air entering your home will feel much more fresh and clean as a result.

6 | Put reflective film on windows

If you are really into keeping things cool around your place, try installing reflective films on windows and change out your curtains for new ones with sunscreen-fabrics. Buying new windows all together could also be an option as nowadays most come standard with some level of resistance to solar heat. This might be a good renovation project for potential home sellers. Ask your real estate agent if you’re unsure.

7 | Protect your outdoor wood

From decks and furniture to fencing and decorations, wood adds charm and character to the exterior area of your home. It also takes heaps of abuse from the hot sun and the rest of the elements, so it’s best to protect it by applying a fresh coat of high-end exterior wood finish from your local home department store. This will protect from those deadly UV rays while keeping everything looking nice and dandy.

8 | Double check your irrigation system

If you have one, that is. Your lawn, flowers, plants and trees will be happier that you took the time to work out those kinks before the summer sun is out for two thirds of the day. Irrigation systems can also be costly to repair, so keeping them maintained and in working order can save you big bucks.

9 | Be aware of insects

Bugs are the hardiest living organisms on Earth and are also sometimes the peskiest as they can find their way into some of the toughest to reach places around – like our homes! Be mindful of insects such as carpet beetles, for example, that can attach themselves to your clothes or backpacks outside and get a free ride in, only to create one heck of a pest problem. Make sure to seal up any holes that these little critters could penetrate on the exterior of your home and possibly nest in as well!

10 | Prepare for the barbecue!

Many of us just can’t wait for the summer months and the backyard barbecues that go with! In places such as Calgary, for example, poor weather can turn into full-blown barbecue weather in an afternoon, so be prepared with the propane, food, drinks, lighter and all the other essentials to make the most out of the opportunity.

While some of these tips are just friendly reminders of typical summer home maintenance, some will help you keep your property in the best shape possible. Remember… the resale potential of your home is at stake. Wishing you a wonderful summer!