Sharp homeowners know that summer is the best time to do these 5 things.
#1 UPDATE OUTDOOR LIGHTING
In summer, winter nights are probably the last thing on your mind. But early summer is the perfect time to plan for those “OMG it’s only 4:30, and it’s already dark ” moments by adding or updating landscape lighting.
The most energy-efficient, easy-to-install option is solar lighting, but it won’t perform as well on dark or snowy days. For light no matter the weather, install electric.
LED bulbs last up to five times longer and also use less energy than comparable bulbs.
#2 CLEAN YOUR HOUSE’S SIDING
With a bit of preventative maintenance, your home’s siding will stay clean and trouble-free for up to 50 years. Fifty years! Clean it this month with a soft cloth or a long-handled, soft-bristled brush to guarantee that longevity.
Start at the bottom of the house and work up, rinsing completely before it dries. That’s how you avoid streaks.
#3 FOCUS ON YOUR FOUNDATION
There’s no better time for inspecting your foundation than warm, dry June. Eyeball it for crumbling mortar, cracks in the stucco, or persistently damp spots (especially under faucets). Then call a pro to fix any outstanding issues now, before it becomes an emergency later.
#4 SEAL YOUR DRIVEWAY ASPHALT
Your driveway takes a daily beating. Weather, sunlight, cars, bikes, and foot traffic – all of these deteriorate the asphalt. Help it last by sealing it. Tip: The temperature must be 50 degrees or higher for the sealer to stick, making June a good month for this easy, cost-effective job.
#5 BUY TOOLS
If it’s time to replace a bunch of tools, or you’re starting from scratch, look for package deals that offer several at once. These can pack a savings wallop, offering 30% off or more over buying the tools individually.