After months of being cooped up indoors, summer arrived and now all we want to do is be outside. Whether switching from cooking dinner over a hot stove to barbequing in the backyard or hanging in the hammock rather than surfing on the sofa, outside is where it’s at.
Enjoy everything the summer season has to offer guilt-free by checking off your summer to-do list early and getting the inside and outside of your home in top shape, so you can spend the entire summer living life to the max.
Get your inside in order
Here are a few simple inside chores to check off your summer to-do list to help make sure your home is summer-ready.
#1. Make the closet switch
The start of a new season is the perfect time to clean out your closets and assess what you want to keep or donate. Store your winter wear in airtight bins to make room for hot summer fashion.
#2. Replace detector batteries
Your smoke and C02 detectors have been keeping you safe all winter long. Batteries need to be replaced at least once a year, so make summer the time to do it.
#3. Freshen your airflow
Create a cool inside environment and lower your energy costs by turning your ceiling fan to counter-clockwise which pushes air downward creating a stronger draft. It’s also a smart time to change your air conditioner filter and get it professionally maintained to ensure it will work when you really need it.
#4. Wash your windows
Let in the light with sparkling clean glass and fresh, breezy window treatments. Wash inside and out using equal part water-vinegar solutions and a squeegee. Use a hand vacuum to lift loose dust from the screen and consider replacing heavy draperies with thin sheers that embrace the summer sun.
#5. Make room for popsicles
Empty your freezer and defrost it to get rid of any icy build-up. Certain foods lose their flavour over time, so toss out last winter’s stew to make room for ice cream and burgers.
Get your outside in order with this summer to-do list
Recover from winter’s hibernation and get your home and yard prepped for summer. A few basic chores that will save you time and money in the long run.
#1. Clean out the garage
With a little decluttering and ditching you can create a tidy space organized by season with shelving, bike racks, and storage bins so you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips.
#2. Flip the shed
Just like your closets, it’s time to put away the snow shovels and bring out sprinkler and summer gear. Organize your space to have easy access to your summer toys and tools.
#3. Tune-up the tools
Make sure your lawnmowers and trimmers are up for the task with a good cleaning and maintenance check. Lubricate the moving parts and sharpen the mower and pruner blades. Fill up with clean gas, change the oil, check the trimmer string to see if it needs replacing, and examine the hose for leaks.
#4. Clear out your gutters
Rain gutters clogged with leaves can lead to mold growth, a leaky roof, and water damage to your home. Check for cracks and splits, scoop out the debris and use a hose or special gutter pressure washer to create a clear water flow.
#5. Redo the driveway
Prolong the lifespan of the driveway by filling cracks and repairing holes, then resealing to look make it look as good as new.
#6. Deep clean your grill
Get better tasting burgers with a clean BBQ. Clean the outside with soapy water, and then tackle the grill with a hard-wire brush. Use oven cleaner for tough spots. After cleaning, run it on high for about 10 minutes, let it cool and wipe the grates with a thin layer of cooking oil.
#7. Clean your deck
Check your deck for signs of rotting or loose boards. You might get away with a little sanding and hammering down nails. Be sure to give it a good clean with a power washer to remove mold, dirt, and mildew. If the finish is worn waterproof and reseal it.
#8. Set up the patio
Whether you start with two Muskoka chairs or create a deluxe al fresco living room, what’s most important is to simply have a spot to kick back, relax, and enjoy summer!
