How to Get Your Home Ready for Summer

Summer is almost here, and that means it's time to start thinking about outdoor gatherings, fireworks, and backyard barbecues. If your home isn't as summer-ready as you'd like it to be, now is the perfect time to make some changes. Follow these summer home maintenance tips to prepare for a summer full of fun.

1. Clean Your Outdoor Furniture

No one wants to sit on furniture that's covered in pollen or cobwebs. Summer is here so let's make sure your outdoor furniture is clean and looking its best. Start off by removing the leaves, grass, and any other pieces of debris. Next, wash all cushions and pillows according to the manufacturer's instructions. For larger items, you may have to use one of the machines at your local laundromat.

Finally, clean each furniture item thoroughly. For wicker, all you need is a gentle brush and a mixture of warm water and dish soap. If you have patio furniture made of metal, use a soft cloth instead of a brush to avoid damaging the paint. Always be sure to research what is best for your furniture material, each item requires different care for best results.

2. Spruce Up Your Yard

Winter weather can wreak havoc on your landscaping and other outdoor features, even if you live in an area that doesn't get much snow. Dead plants and dirty bird baths aren't exactly inviting, so let's bring some wildlife back to your yard. If you have a birdbath, clean it with a mixture of water and vinegar. Once it's clean, change the water every few days to prevent dead insects from building up inside. Vinegar can also be useful for cleaning outdoor fountains, as it removes algae and mineral deposits.

A few more ideas to help your yard stand out: 

• Trim unruly tree branches
• Prune the bushes
• Clear dead leaves, sticks, and other debris from flower beds
• Add new mulch
• Edge garden beds
• Add new plants & flowers
• Purchase some bird feeders

3. Rent a Pressure Washer

Mold, mildew, algae, and dirt make outdoor spaces a little less appealing. One way to combat these problems is to rent a power washer and use it to give exterior surfaces a thorough cleaning. You can use a power washer on patios, decks, siding, walls, driveways, and roofs. If you're not keen on operating one of these powerful machines, hire someone to do it for you.

4. Check for Roof Damage

When you think about how to prepare for summer, you probably don't give much thought to your roof. Unfortunately, winter storms and heavy spring rains can cause significant damage, especially if you live in an area prone to natural disasters. Before you worry about flipping burgers or playing cornhole, inspect your roof thoroughly to determine if it needs to be repaired. Look for warped shingles, buckled shingles, missing shingles, and water damage. And again, if you are not comfortable with getting on or near your roof to inspect it, it is highly encouraged that you hire a professional to do so.

5. Make Needed Repairs

Late spring is the perfect time to do all the repairs you've been putting off. You'll make your home safer and more attractive, a true win-win situation. If you have the time and the budget, here's what you should work on:

• Broken outdoor faucets
• Damaged siding
• Sidewalk and driveway cracks
• Warped deck boards
• Broken steps on patios and porches

6. Scrub Your Grill

As you use your grill, ash builds up inside, increasing the risk of fires. Before you invite people over for hot dogs and corn on the cob, clean your grill thoroughly. You'll need a pair of rubber gloves, a scouring pad, and some soap. Once you mix the soap and water together, all you have to do is scrub the firebox and grates. To get rid of stuck-on food, try slicing an onion in half and rubbing the cut side over the grates while the grill is on high. Avoid burns by using a long skewer to move the onion around. You'll be ready for Memorial Day and the 4th of July in no time.

7. Create an Inviting Entryway

Sure, many summer parties are outdoors, but your guests may need to come inside to grab a snack or use the bathroom. That's why it's important to have an inviting entryway. People shouldn't have to navigate through piles of clutter or deal with a door that doesn't work correctly. Give everyone a warm welcome by clearing everything off your porch, putting down a welcome mat, and making sure the front door doesn't stick. If you have time, give the door a fresh coat of paint. Finish things off with some potted flowers or a small sculpture.

To make your summer even more enjoyable, you can consider adding a fire pit to your backyard. The Eastwood Homes outdoor living package includes a fire pit, a paver patio, and a seating wall, making it easier than ever to transform a boring backyard into a relaxing oasis. 

Learn more about Eastwood Homes and the many communities we offer in North Carolina (Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro Area), South Carolina (Greenville, Columbia, Charleston), Richmond, VA, and Atlanta, GA.