School’s over…let the summer vacation begin! June is the best time to check a few household items off your to-do list. Here are a few tips.
- Paint your home. Summer is the best time to paint because it’s usually the driest time of year.
- Check for cracks in your foundation. Take a walk around your home and check for cracks in the foundation — even a small crack that doesn’t pose a structural threat can let in water and pests.
- Clean your gutters. Remove all leaves and debris from the gutters and down spouts from last falls’ leaves.
- Stow school gear. Inspect school gear and decide whether to stow it for next year, donate it, or toss it. Label and store meaningful artwork and school papers, and get rid of the rest.
- Get outdoor gear ready. Prepare for having the kids home for summer by adding something fun, like a tire swing or new sprinkler attachment. Dig out all the old beach and outdoor gear and check to make sure it’s still in good shape.
- Repair and seal fences and garden structures. Keep wood fences, gates, arbors, and pergolas in good condition for many years to come by adding a fresh coat of paint or clear wood sealant each summer. Trim any trees that are growing too close to fences — tough branches and roots can cause a lot of damage.
- Consider installing screen doors. Screen doors are a must in areas where mosquitoes or flies are an issue. If you haven’t installed yours yet for the season, now is the time.
- Set up a beach-towel and swimsuit drying spot. It’s nice to have somewhere to hang wet swim gear so they aren’t tossed on the floor to get moldy.
- Clean the washer and dryer. Run an empty wash cycle with white vinegar instead of detergent. Carefully clean the rubber areas around the washer and dryer doors.
- Wash oversized bedding. Now is a good time to wash and air dry pillows and comforters.
- Lighten up decor. Making a few simple decor swaps is a great way to welcome the new season. Try switching accent pillows for a lighter more summery feel.
- Switch the direction of fans. If you use ceiling fans and haven’t done so yet, now is the time to flip the switch so cool air is directed downward.
- Make a summer to-do list. Don’t let the summer slip by without savoring your favorite seasonal pleasures. Sit down now and make a big list of all of the things you want to do this summer, whether big (camping trip) or small (making homemade ice cream). Having your kids help you will ensure they feel like they had a part to play in planning the summer events.
- Enjoy some porch sitting. Make a point of squeezing in a little time to sit on your porch with a cool drink (or a cup of hot coffee) for a few minutes each day. It’s relaxing and a great way to catch up with neighbors as they pass by.
Summer is a great time to check on your home’s exterior and have fun with your family. Why not marry the two and have your kids join in on the household chores and then reward everyone with something off the “summer fun” list! Happy summer!
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