Spring officially starts March 19 and summer begins June 20. But in Florida, it often feels like summer long before the solstice! March is a good time to begin preparing your home for hot and rainy weather.
Here’s your handy to-do list, packed with pro tips from the Straight Line Construction team!
Clear Out Your Gutters
Clogged gutters are a nuisance in several ways. First, they prevent rainwater from properly draining from your roof, which can lead to damage.
Second, they end up holding water and debris, creating mud that weighs down and warps the gutters.
Third, they don’t divert water away from the foundation, which can also lead to damage.
To get ready for rainier weather during spring and summer, remove all the dead leaves, twigs, etc. from your gutters and downspouts. Flush with your hose to clear out the rest of the debris. While you’re doing this, keep an eye out for leaks.
Here’s how to patch a leak in your gutter or downspout. Pro Tip: Wear vinyl or nitrile gloves for this!
- Use steel wool to scrub around the hole on the inside.
- Cut a patch of metal flashing slightly larger than the hole.
- Use a putty knife to coat the back of the patch with asphalt flashing cement or gutter patch.
- Press into place and wipe away any excess.
Also, add splash blocks, if you don’t have them, to further direct water away from the house.
Check Your Roof
Inspect the roof for any damage, such as cracks or missing shingles. Look for signs of leaks and water damage.
Or better yet, leave it to the pros. Our partners at Sentinel Roofing are happy to help make sure your roof is ready for heavy rains!
Service Your Air Conditioning System
Schedule a professional HVAC company to clean and inspect your air conditioning system. You don’t want to wait until the dog days of summer to learn you’re out of freon!
And because your AC works so hard during the summer, any minor issues could become major problems.
Check the outdoor components of your HVAC system, too. Now is the time to remove any debris and cut back overgrown plants around your condenser unit. This allows more airflow.
Pro Tip: Conceal your outdoor unit and keep weeds at bay with an attractive stone wall or trellis. This can make it look like part of your home rather than a hunk of equipment!
Weatherproof Your Home
Your HVAC system will work even more efficiently if your home doesn’t leak all that nice cool air. Here are some ways to boost your energy efficiency, especially during the season of steep power bills:
Repair and Buffer Your Windows:
Weatherstripping isn’t just for winter. Apply foam strips around your window frames to help maintain the indoor temperature. This can also help reduce humidity indoors, which makes the house feel cooler.
While you’re at it, check your windows for any damaged or cracked glass, and repair as needed.
Check Your Ceiling Fans:
Your fans should spin counterclockwise in the summer. This creates a downdraft so you feel more cool air. It also helps remove moisture. If they’re spinning clockwise, there’s usually a switch on the side to change the direction.
Want to have new ceiling fans installed? The Straight Line Construction team can help you choose the perfect set to go with your beautiful remodeled home!
Tidy and Prep Your Outdoor Spaces
Once the summer fun starts, it will be harder to keep mud, grass, and other debris off your patio or deck. Give your outdoor spaces a clean surface to help them stay tidy all season long.
Inspect Your Deck or Patio:
Check your outdoor wooden and stone surfaces for cracks or other damage.
If it’s been a few years since your wooden deck was last sealed or stained, it might be time to redo it. We typically recommend this be done later in the summer or early fall, but it could happen before heavy rains start. Call Straight Line to discuss your options!
We’re also available to help you upgrade your outdoor living space, build al fresco living and dining rooms, and more. Check out our gallery for inspiration.
Inspect Your Water Features:
If you have outdoor water features such as a hot tub or outdoor shower, check all the pipes and connections. Clear away any mold or mildew, as warmer weather will make that easier to spread.
Thinking of installing an outdoor shower or building a pool shed or mud room? Straight Line Construction can help you get ready for water-based activities this summer!
Clean Your Exterior Surfaces:
Power-wash your house’s exterior walls, as well as any patio surfaces and walkways. Pro Tip: Test the pressure setting in an inconspicuous area before you begin.
While you’re at it, check for cracks or gaps. Seal any openings to keep out water and pests.
Bringing out your patio furniture from storage? Or did you leave it out all winter? Either way, give it a nice wipe-down with a warm cloth and a mixture of vinegar and water.
Clean and Organize Garage:
Spring is the perfect time to declutter your garage. Put away those holiday decorations and break out the pool toys! We recommend metal shelving systems to keep everything off the floor and organized.
While you’re at it, toss out any trash and sweep out dust and debris. Be sure to follow proper disposal guidelines for household and automotive chemicals.
Count on Straight Line Construction for a Happier Home
We hope you find this checklist useful! Taking some time now for spring cleaning and maintenance can help prevent issues down the line. Plus, a tidy space gives you a chance to visualize your next remodel. Perhaps you’re already imagining how you’ll turn that freshly cleaned garage into a home gym!
Whatever you need, contact Straight Line Construction to discuss your remodel and renovation. We’re eager to help you enjoy your home this season!