8 Tips to Get Your Home Ready for the Summer

1. Get Your HVAC System Serviced

Hotter temperatures put all homeowners’ HVAC systems to the test. Higher demands to the system can make your energy bill increase significantly. You may find yourself setting your temperature lower than you’re comfortable with simply to avoid using too much energy or overburdening your system. Preventative maintenance will help ensure that your air conditioning works to the best of its capability and can help you avoid running the system more than you need to in order to get the same cooling efficacy.

2. Treat Yourself to Some At-Home Summertime Recreation With a Pool

Having your own pool is one of the very best ways to make the most of your time at home during the summer. The in ground pool cost for your home may comprise a good amount of your summer budget, but it’s a lot more affordable than you may think. Moreover, in contrast to putting your summer budget towards a vacation somewhere, you’ll be able to enjoy having it for many summers to come.

3. Get Some Comfortable Outdoor Seating

To really relax in the warm weather outdoors, you’ve got to have a good place to kick back and recline. The traditional plastic white lawn chair of decades past simply won’t cut it. Get some cushioned outdoor furniture where you can recline and put your feet up while you get some rays.

4. Pick Out Some Umbrellas or Install an Awning

While a little time in the sunshine can feel awesome, you can’t overdo it. On a really hot day, sitting out in the sun can get really warm in a hurry. Furthermore, too much exposure to UV rays isn’t good for your skin. Create a little refuge from the sun with umbrellas or a retractable awning. Look for something that will be easy to maintain and clean. Also, you want something that you can collapse or put away easily when the weather is windy or rainy.

5. Put Up a Hammock

Few things rival that awesome summertime feeling you get when you stretch out on a comfortable hammock on a warm and sunny day. If you don’t have aptly spaced trees to accommodate a hammock, you can get a relatively inexpensive stand that will offer sturdy support for a hammock anywhere you want to put it.

6. Aerate Your Lawn

Summer weather can take a toll on your lawn. Professional aeration will make your lawn look healthier and make the most of rainfall. You won’t have to waste excess water just to keep your lawn green.

7. Build or Repair a Deck

Adding a deck onto the side of your home is a great way to raise its value. It will also give you an awesome place to hang out on warm summer evenings. Picture having some great meals outdoors with your family and guests. If you already have a deck, you need to make sure it’s safe for daily use and entertaining. Fix any loose or precarious steps. If any areas are getting worn or splintery, you may need to think about sanding it. Splintered wood can really hurt someone who’s barefoot or padding around in flip-flops, and they can be dangerous for your pets. After you’ve sanded, you should apply a protective stain or sealant that will help to protect your deck against further wear.

8. Install an Outdoor Fan

A high powered fan outdoors will help you stay cool in the warm weather when you’re on your porch or deck. Also, it will drive away flying insects that can spoil an evening outdoors.

Take on a couple upgrades to make being at home over the summer more enjoyable. Your family and guests will enjoy your summertime improvements just as much as you will.