Summer Home Care Tips for Treasure Valley Homeowners
As summer heats up in the Treasure Valley, it’s the perfect time to tackle a few important tasks around the house. Whether you’re settling into a brand-new Alturas home or have lived in your home for years, these summer home care tips will help you keep everything in great shape during the warmer months.
From preserving your exterior to protecting your systems and improving comfort indoors, here are some essential ways to keep your home looking and functioning its best all summer long.
1. Repaint and Re-Caulk Exterior Wood
Sun and heat can take a toll on your home’s exterior. To protect siding, trim, and other wood features, plan to repaint and re-caulk every 2–3 years. This prevents moisture damage and helps your home continue to look fresh.
2. Treat Decks and Steps
Wood decks and steps should be cleaned and sealed every 2 years to protect them from cracking, warping, or fading in the hot sun. Summer is a great time to do this maintenance while surfaces are dry.
3. Lubricate Windows and Doors
Heat and dust can cause window tracks and door hinges to stick. Apply a light lubricant to sliding glass doors, window frames, and hinges for smooth, quiet operation.
4. Pour Bleach in the A/C Condensate Line
To prevent mildew and keep your system running efficiently, pour a capful of bleach into your air conditioner’s condensate line at the start of summer. It’s a small step that can prevent big problems later.
5. Check and Clear Exterior Drains
Summer thunderstorms and wind can lead to clogged drains. Make sure your downspouts and exterior drains are free of leaves and debris to prevent water damage or pooling around your foundation.
6. Power Wash Exterior Surfaces
Give your home’s siding, porch, patio, and walkways a refresh with a light power wash. This boosts curb appeal and removes dirt, pollen, and mildew that can accumulate over spring and early summer.
7. Adjust Ceiling Fans
Set your fans to rotate counterclockwise in the summer. This pushes cool air downward and helps circulate air more efficiently—especially helpful if you’re trying to cut back on A/C usage.
8. Clean and Inspect Gutters
Even though we think of gutters as a fall maintenance item, summer is the time to double-check for debris and ensure they’re flowing freely—especially before heavy rain or storms.
9. Trim Back Trees and Shrubs
Keep plants at least a foot away from your home’s siding and roof. This prevents pest access and protects your home from storm damage or fire risk during Idaho’s drier months.
10. Check Your Attic and Roof
Make sure your attic ventilation is unobstructed and insulation is intact. While you’re at it, use binoculars (or hire a pro) to scan your roof for missing shingles or signs of wear from spring storms or sun exposure.
11. Inspect Irrigation and Sprinklers
Ensure your sprinkler system isn’t spraying the house, sidewalk, or fence, and check for leaks or clogs. Test timers to avoid overwatering—especially important in the heat of summer.
12. Freshen Up the Grill
Hosting summer BBQs? Give your grill a deep clean, check propane tanks or connections, and make sure it’s ready to go for your next outdoor gathering.
Keep Your Home in Great Shape Year-Round
At Alturas Homes, we design homes that are beautiful, functional, and built to last. But like any well-loved space, a little seasonal maintenance goes a long way in protecting your investment.
We also provide every homeowner with a detailed Homeowner Manual and warranty support to guide you through ownership.
Whether you’re maintaining a new home or preparing to buy one, we’re here to help every step of the way.
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