Are You Ready for Summer?

Summer is finally here, and you are ready to hit the beach. But is your home ready for you?

dog in water with stick in mouth

The Handler Concierge has already come across a few problems with clients’ properties, that could have been prevented if handled sooner.

Here is a checklist of things you should check, to prevent future problems from happening — when you least want to deal with them.

  • checking air compressorCheck your air conditioning unit. Replace filters inside, wipe down returns and vents. Your system needs to be running efficiently. Have your HVAC company come to do a checkup, and possibly recharge. You don’t want the a/c to go out during the dog days of July!
  • Wipe down any ceiling fans in the house. The less drag on the blades, the more efficient your fan will run. Plus, who wants all that dust raining down on you when you turn it on? Make sure that they are running counterclockwise, pushing the air down for best effect in the summer. Check your thermostat settings too, so they are where you want them. Sometimes gremlins change the settings!
  • If you didn’t clean your grill last fall, it’s time to get your grill ready for action. Clean the grates, brush out the debris that’s been piled up at the bottom, and check the gas connections. If it’s a charcoal grill, you can empty it completely and clean with a sponge dipped in hot soapy water. 
  • Porches and decks: Give a good sweep and mopping, making sure to clean in the corners. Don’t forget to look up and sweep off the cobwebs! On your deck, double-check for any loose nails sticking up. Your deck might need resealing if the water soaks in when it rains. Inspect patios for cracks, or damaged bricks, stones, and pavers.
  • Summer is when most insects make their way indoors looking for cooler places. Check holes and cracks around windows and door frames. Look for tears in window and door screens. Check for cracks in the foundation, especially below windows and doorsteps. Seal up those gaps!
  • Outside: Keep your landscape mulched: not only will it keep down the weeds, but it will also retain the moisture in the summer heat. Watch your irrigation system as it runs through a cycle, making any angle or direction adjustments needed. Make sure the heads are free and clear and can operate properly.
  • If you didn’t clean your gutters last fall, definitely get them emptied now, before summer downpours occur. The onslaught of heavy rain overflowing your gutter system leads to wet basements and crawlspaces if the water is not properly deflected away from your foundation. rain exiting downspout
  • Do a walk through your home interior and check for any other areas that need attending to. Pay particular attention to problem areas such as: leaks of any kind, mold and mildew, excess moisture in your basement or crawlspace, and driveway cracks or holes. Now is the time to get things fixed before cold weather comes back!

This is only a partial list of recommended maintenance issues. If you’d like The Handler to check things out for you, call 410-507-4744.

After all, you want to make the most of your vacation home now that it’s vacation time! The Handler can identify your trouble spots, and then fix (or call/oversee a professional if needed) to get the job done, so you can relax and not worry.