Outdoor Safety and Summer Projects: Your June Home Checklist

 

Summer is in full swing, and June is the perfect time to enjoy your outdoor spaces while ensuring they’re safe and well-maintained. Summer home maintenance tasks—like prepping your deck and tackling common outdoor projects—can set the stage for a safe and enjoyable season. At Inspectrum, we believe in proactive care to help you make the most of your home. Here’s your June checklist.

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Deck or Patio

Your deck or patio is a key part of summer living and an important focus of summer home maintenance. Keep it safe and inviting with these steps:

• Check for loose boards or nails: Secure or replace any that are damaged.
• Clean and reseal wood decks: Power wash and apply a fresh sealant to protect against moisture and UV rays.
• Inspect railings and stairs: Ensure they’re sturdy and meet safety standards.

Real-life example: A homeowner in Chicago avoided costly deck repairs by resealing their deck just in time for summer rains. A little prevention goes a long way!

2. Check for Outdoor Pests

Summer heat often brings unwanted visitors to your yard:

• Look for signs of termites or carpenter ants: Pay special attention to wooden structures.
• Eliminate standing water: Prevent mosquito breeding by clearing puddles and emptying containers.
• Inspect for wasp nests: Check eaves and overhangs, and handle with care if nests are present.

3. Service Your Grill and Outdoor Appliances

Your grill and outdoor appliances deserve a tune-up to keep summer cooking safe:

• Clean the grill grates and burners: Remove grease buildup to prevent flare-ups.
• Check gas connections: Inspect hoses and fittings for leaks.
• Test outdoor power outlets: Ensure they’re functioning and safe for use.

4. Set Up Outdoor Lighting for Safety and Ambiance

Outdoor lighting adds charm to your space while improving safety:

• Install pathway lights: Illuminate walkways to prevent trips and falls.
• Test motion-sensor lights: Ensure they’re working to deter unwanted visitors.
• Add string lights or lanterns: Create a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings.

5. Plan Summer Projects

June is a great time to start those home improvement projects you’ve been dreaming of:

• Build a garden bed: Add fresh flowers or start a vegetable garden.
• Refresh outdoor furniture: Clean, repair, or replace items for a polished look.
• Add a fire pit: Create a focal point for summer evenings with friends and family.

Stay Safe and Enjoy Summer

June is all about enjoying your home to the fullest while staying ahead of potential issues. By following this checklist, you can make your outdoor spaces safe, beautiful, and functional for the season.

Preview for July: Mid-Summer Maintenance and Cooling Tips

July brings the peak of summer heat, making it the perfect time to focus on mid-summer maintenance and staying cool. Next month, we’ll share tips on keeping your HVAC system efficient, maintaining pools, and addressing heat-related wear and tear around your home. Stay tuned for practical advice to beat the heat and keep your home running smoothly!