Home Improvement Checklist for Summer

Summer is here, which means it's time for sun, the great outdoors, and... home improvement! While we each have our own projects that we put off all winter (never did fix that leaky shower...), warm weather brings with it a separate list of items that you need to take care of sooner rather than later. Realtor.com has selected nine relatively simple tasks to complete in order to get the most out of your property this season!

Buy the Right Kind of Plants

A few well-placed plants can add both beauty and functionality to your property, but only if they stay alive! Many people purchase whatever they think looks best, without considering maintenance or whether their soil can support that species. Before buying anything, consider doing a little research about what type of plants to buy. You could also have your soil tested and even attend Master Gardener classes at your local Department of Agriculture Extension.

Inspect Your Grill Before Using it

Before cooking anything, check your grill for corrosion, uneven burning, or problems starting. It also can't hurt to give it a thorough scrubbing and even a new coat of heat resistant paint. Nothing ruins a cookout like realizing that the grill won't start while a dozen hungry guests stare you down!

Repair or Replace Broken Outdoor Furniture

Besides the obvious cleaning that anything needs after a winter in the shed, you should also take the time to make sure that there are no missing screws, broken legs, or ripped fabric in your outdoor furniture. Imagine the embarrassment of having a lawn chair collapse as a guest sits down to enjoy your patio!

Illuminate

You'll be amazed by the difference a few outdoor lights can make to an otherwise drab backyard! Install accent lights around trees or on deck railings to greatly increase the wow factor of your space. If you already have outdoor lighting, check to make sure no bulbs are burned out.

Fight the Bugs

Although summer means the return of many great things, it also means the return of mosquitoes. To combat the invasion of insects, scatter some insect-repelling candles around your outdoor spaces. For more serious measures, consider a bug-zapper or trap. Also, be sure to drain any standing water that could be found in old flower pots or other containers, as these are prime breeding grounds for the winged blood suckers.

Keep the Cool Air Coming

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so have a professional technician inspect your A.C. unit now rather than wait for an expensive (and uncomfortable) repair in late July. Also, make sure that you don't schedule a repair for the day after the warranty expires!

Insulation is Always Important

Remember, insulation is just as important for keeping the cold air inside during the summer as it is for keeping the cold air outside during the winter! Therefore, consider having your home inspected for air leaks, especially if it is an older building. This can save you significant money on your utility bills, so the sooner the better!

Water, Water Everywhere

Check your hoses and/or sprinkler system for any leaks that may have developed during the winter months, especially around valves and fittings. This will help conserve water and reduce your bills, a win-win!

Service the Lawn Tools

Ease the eternal struggle of mowing the lawn by having the mower serviced and sharpened early in the season. Don't forget about other tools either, such as the weedwacker, chainsaw, and leaf blower (fall will return, I promise).

Source: 9 Home Improvements for Your Best Summer Ever