Summer has a way of flying by, and home maintenance can easily land at the bottom of the list. Before autumn arrives, setting aside a few hours for basic upkeep can help prevent costly repairs, improve energy efficiency and prepare your home for cooler weather. Here are seven late-summer tasks worth tackling.
Inspect your roof and gutters
From the ground, look for missing, curling or damaged shingles and areas where branches may have scraped the roof during summer storms. If something looks concerning — or you cannot safely inspect it — consider calling a professional.
Clear leaves, twigs and other debris from gutters so rainwater can flow away from the house. Clogged gutters can contribute to damage to the roof, siding, landscaping and foundation.
Prepare your HVAC system
Replace or clean the HVAC air filter after a long summer of heavy air-conditioning use. A clean filter improves airflow and helps the system operate efficiently. Clear grass clippings, leaves and debris from around the outdoor unit, too.
If your heating system has not been serviced recently, consider scheduling seasonal maintenance before the fall rush.
Check windows, doors and seals
Small air leaks can raise utility bills. Inspect weather stripping around exterior doors for gaps or worn areas, and check window caulking for cracks or separation. Fresh weather stripping or caulk is an inexpensive fix that can improve efficiency and help prevent water intrusion.
Test home safety devices
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries as needed. Check that fire extinguishers are charged and easy to reach. This is also a good time to make sure flashlights work, emergency supplies are accessible and family members know the household emergency plan.
Refresh outdoor spaces
Trim shrubs and branches that touch the house or hang over the roof, and remove dead limbs that could become hazards during storms. Inspect fences, gates, decks and patios for loose boards, protruding nails or other damage. Check outdoor faucets and irrigation systems for leaks while they are still in regular use.
Handle the little repairs
That dripping faucet, loose cabinet handle, chipped paint or small drywall hole may be easy to ignore. Taking care of minor problems now can prevent additional wear and shorten the list of chores waiting when the holidays arrive.
Organize the garage
Summer can turn garages and storage areas into catch-all spaces. Sort tools, sports equipment, gardening supplies and seasonal items. Toss broken items, donate what you no longer use and make room for outdoor furniture and lawn equipment that will need to come inside as temperatures drop.
A little maintenance goes a long way
Routine home maintenance does not have to be overwhelming or expensive. A few hours spent on preventive work at the end of summer can protect major systems, improve efficiency and reduce the chance of unpleasant — and expensive — surprises later.
Amy Harrington Bible is a feature writer for KnoxTNToday, writing a weekly column that will offer valuable insights and practical tips to enhance daily life. Amy Harrington Bible is the owner of Harrington Insurance Agency, a company that has been offering independent insurance services in the Knoxville, TN area since 1942. Bible carries the legacy of the family-owned and operated business with the skills and experience to meet any insurance need you may have. Website link is Harrington Insurance Agency
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