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As I mentioned a few weeks ago, June is recognized as National Homeownership Month, and it just so happens that this is also a great time of year to pay a little extra attention to some often overlooked areas of one’s home. In a recent post from HouseLogic.com, which is with the National Association of REALTORS®, Kelley Walters identifies five summer maintenance tasks to undertake during June's longer days and better weather which will help save time and money this winter.
Update Outdoor Lighting. In June, winter nights are probably the last thing on your mind. But early summer is the perfect time to plan for those "OMG, it's only 4:30, and it's already dark " moments by adding or updating landscape lighting.
The most energy-efficient, easy-to-install option is solar lighting, but it won't perform as well on dark or snowy days. For light no matter the weather, install electric lights.
Clean Your House's Siding. With a bit of preventive maintenance, your home's siding will stay clean and trouble-free for up to 50 years. Fifty years! Clean it this month with a soft cloth or a long-handled, soft-bristle brush to guarantee that longevity. Start at the bottom of the house and work up, rinsing completely before it dries. That's how you avoid streaks.
Focus on Your Foundation. There's no better time for inspecting your foundation than warm, dry June. Eyeball it for crumbling mortar, cracks in the stucco, or persistently damp spots (especially under faucets). Then call a pro to fix any outstanding issues now, before they become an emergency later.
Seal Your Driveway Asphalt. Your driveway takes a daily beating. Weather, sunlight, cars, bikes, and foot traffic all can damage the asphalt. Help it last by sealing it. Tip: The temperature must be 50 degrees or higher for the sealer to stick, making June a good month for this easy, cost-effective job.
Buy Tools. Thanks to Father's Day, June is the month everyone can get a deal on tools, tool bags, and that multitool you've had your eye on. If it's time to replace a bunch of tools or you're starting from scratch, look for package deals that offer several at once. These can pack a savings wallop, offering 30% off or more over buying the tools individually.
The days are longer and the weather’s warm, and using this time to make the most out of your most valued investment is a great decision. REALTORS® help their clients and community all year long with their homeownership needs. That’s Who We R®.