This is the season for undertaking those major home improvement projects and tending your ever-changing landscape.
Maintain lawn and garden tools. Sharpen blades, change oil, check spark plug and replace filters on the lawn mower. Make sure weed trimmers are in good condition. Oil garden tools and sharpen blades.
Inspect locks on doors and windows. Make sure your home is safe and secure. Lubricate any testy locks. Check manufacturer's recommendations as some locking mechanisms may require graphite instead of oil. Install a home security system if desired. Consider installing outdoor lighting to increase security.
Inspect for termites and other pests. Inspect the basement or crawl space, eaves, and attic for termites, carpenter ants, and other wood pests. If you see signs of wood damage, call a professional exterminator. Check under the eaves for wasp or hornet nests. Handle wasp or hornet nests with care and call in a professional if necessary.
Spruce up patios and porches. Clean the barbecue and hose down brick or concrete patio surfaces. Replace any broken bricks; patch cracks in concrete. Wash outdoor or screened-in porch floors and wash dust out of screens. Plant annuals in pots, or replant existing planters. Oil patio doors and inspect screens for tears. Bring out patio or porch furniture.
Complete painting projects. If you're painting your house yourself, rent a power washer and wash your house first. Scrape peeling or cracked paint, smooth rough areas with sandpaper. Fill in damaged areas with wood putty. Choose the best paint you can afford. If you did not complete interior painting projects during the winter, schedule them now. Warm temperatures allow for ventilation and quicker drying times.
Build or repair fences. Repair any damaged areas of existing fencing and refinish as necessary. If you're building a new fence, get at least three bids and look carefully at the increasing variety of fencing materials. Make sure your fence abides by local codes and doesn't encroach on neighboring properties.
Inspect siding. Check siding and trim around windows and doors for holes, dents, and gaps. Repair with wood filler or according to manufacturer's instructions. If your plan to entirely replace your home's siding, summer is the ideal time for this project. Depending on the size of your home, you should plan about 1-2 weeks for completion.
Replace your roof. If you need a new roof, summer is the best time to have it installed. Check the weather forecast for warm, dry weather before beginning. Consider fire-resistant roof material if your current roof is not fireproof. This is a major project and you may want to hire a professional.
Repair and seal driveways. Renew the surface of asphalt driveways with sealer. Repair damage to concrete driveways as soon as possible (this project may also require a professional).
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