It’s Summer In Calgary! What about Maintenance for your home?

It’s summer time in Calgary!  As much as we love spending time in the great outdoors, what about summer maintenance for your Home?  The kids are off school, vacation time has been booked, and all Calgarians want to do is take advantage of the hot summer weather and spend as much time outdoors as possible before fall sneaks up on them. Thoughts are consumed by the excitement of camping, hiking, days at the local pool and beach, and backyard BBQs with family and friends.

Working on the house is the last thing anyone wants to do. And yet, it’s important it gets done. Regular seasonal maintenance and upkeep of your home is important in keeping its value and preventing issues and costly repairs from arising. Summer is the perfect time to check off these items and do any outdoor improvements.

Regular seasonal maintenance of your home also allows you to be prepared any time of the year should you decide that you want to sell your home and move. Rain and snow make it hard to paint your fence, clean your gutters, or repair the roof if you haven’t done these things while the weather was accommodating.

Follow this checklist to make sure that your house is in tip-top shape this summer:

Maintain the Air Conditioning Unit

These systems are costly to repair, and there is nothing worse than having air conditioning that doesn’t work during a heat wave. These are the busiest times to find someone to repair or replace the unit. Knowing what needs repairing before summer will save you time, money, stress, and from being uncomfortable in your home.
Check the unit for any damage to the fins, clean the coils, and make sure the unit is level. Be sure to remove any debris in the unit by first turning off the breaker and removing the fan.

Clean and Declutter all Air Vents

In order for your air conditioning to flow efficiently and reduce allergens in the home, you will want to make sure that all clutter such as furniture or drapes are removed around vents. Check vents for airflow. If you notice a lack of air blowing from a duct it could be obstructed. Be sure to have your ducts cleaned every year or two.

Replace Air Filters

Air filters act as the lungs of your home. They prevent airborne particles such as dust and pollen from entering the home and moving from room to room. Replace the filters on your furnace and air conditioner, humidifier/dehumidifier, and then check the filters in your kitchen rangehood and dishwasher.

Turn Off the Humidifier

Most HVAC systems come with a humidifier these days. While these are great in the winter to prevent dry skin and chapped lips, it is advised to turn them off during the summer to prevent your AC unit from having to work extra hard. This will prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the unit as well as save you from paying higher energy bills. Consider using a dehumidifier in the summer if moisture levels are high to avoid any mold growth.

Keep on Top of Landscaping

Regular lawn care will help keep the pesky insects away while adding curb appeal. Check and trim trees on the property, making sure there isn’t any danger of anything breaking or falling on the house during a bad storm.

Power wash siding, driveways, and porches/deck. Just be sure you know how to use your power washing properly to avoid causing any damage.

Check the Exterior

Outside Vents – It’s not uncommon for birds to build their nests in outdoor vents.

Window wells – Check for blockages or debris to allow for adequate drainage.

Windows – Check the caulking around windows and doors for leaks. Caulking does degrade over time and can make it easy for moisture to penetrate the home and create mold. Sealed windows and doors will make your home more efficient, your energy bills more budget-friendly, and prevent insects and bugs from entering the home. Be sure to remove the old caulking first before re-caulking.

Foundation – Check for any cracks in the foundation. These need to be addressed right away.

Soffit and Gutters – Clean out any leaves and twigs from the gutters so there is proper drainage when it rains, remembering to keep all downspouts faced away from your home. It’s not uncommon for birds to build their nests in vents, so keep an eye out for them.

Deck – Check for any rotting wood or sunken footings that may need the deck to be releveled. Power wash and reseal/stain any materials like cedar when needed. This will prevent the wood from cracking, splitting and discolouring.

Fence – Check for any rotting wood and spot treat immediately to prolong its longevity.

Remember, as long as you keep your house well maintained, you won’t have to worry about any unexpected surprise when it’s time to sell! Want to know if  your maintenance has paid off? Reach out to a Benchmark REALTOR and get an expert’s opinion!