Summer is here and the heat is on. We have Your July Homeowner To-Do List to get you started a few summer projects that won’t break the bank – or your back.
Screen Saver
It’s summer. We all want to open our windows and let in fresh, summer air. If your window screens have holes, you’re letting in a lot more than fresh air. You’re letting in more bugs, dust, and pollen. If your screens need to be repaired, remove the torn screen. Stretch new screening over the metal frame and cut it to the correct size. Now, insert a new screening spline into the frame. Use a rolling tool. Finally, trim the excess screening material.
Make Your Pool Sparkle
Automatic skimmers do a great job of collecting pool debris, but sometimes you need your pole and flat skimmer to catch what floats on top. Use a leaf skimmer every day or two to catch debris that lay on the surface of the water. Check the chemistry of your pool weekly to ensure the pH and chlorine are at the recommended levels. We recommend keeping your chlorine level between 1.0-3.0 ppm (parts per million) — this is key to maintaining a healthy pool and preventing irritated skin and eyes. Read our full article for Maintenance Tips For a Clean and Sparkling Pool.
Paint Your Front Door
Nothing reboots the front of your home quicker and for less money than a new coat of paint on your front door. The color of your front door reveals a lot about your home’s style and personality. As a main focal point of your home’s exterior, a beautiful front door can add significant curb appeal. Make a bold statement with a bright red or blue, or keep it neutral with a cool gray.
Get Your Grill Guest-Ready
When guests finally flock back to your yard this summer, you want to be ready at a moment’s notice to throw something on the grill. Make sure your frill is guest-ready. Remove your grill grates and let them soak in warm soapy water for at least 20 minutes. Use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub away caked-on residue. Allow them to dry before re-assembling your grill. Read more tips on how to Prepare Your BBQ For Grilling Season.
Discourage Mosquitoes
Nothing spoils a chill evening on the backyard patio like relentless mosquitoes. We know everyone needs to eat, but send them packing to your neighbor’s house. Take a walk around your yard after rain and make sure there is no standing water in even the smallest containers. Keep shrubs and grasses trimmed away from your house as mosquitoes love dense vegetation—plant citronella or lavender as a natural repellant. Good News Pest Solutions of Floriday says, “The odor that mosquitoes most hate though is one you might not have heard of: Lantana. Their bitter citrusy smell is one that mosquitoes tend to avoid.”
Check Your Mower Blade Height
Although summer months may see your lawn taller than ever, regular mowing helps keep your lawn healthy. The rule of thumb is cut no more than a third off the top. Remember to adjust the height of your mower blade to make sure you are consistently cutting your lawn to a healthy height. Cutting it too short may prevent shock to your lawn.
Keeping Your Lawn Healthy in a Drought
Throw Some Shade
Make your backyard more comfortable in minutes by adding shade to targeted areas with umbrellas or shade sails. Spend a little money to put some shade over your family’s favorite gathering spots, and you will all spend a little more time outdoors.
Make Your Windows Shine
Help the summer sun find its way through your windows. Clean your windows inside and out. Spray with a glass cleaner or a vinegar solution and wipe them clean with a microfiber cloth.
Plant Your Vegetable Garden
Depending on where you live, this is probably the perfect time to plant your fall garden. Think greens like arugula, spinach, cilantro, and parsley—plant vegetables like beets, carrots, and broccoli.
Keep Your Home Safe During Your Summer Vacation
The last thing you want to do is stress about whether your home is secure during your absence. To keep your home safe while you are away:
- Invest in a home security system that allows you to view remotely
- Keep a low profile on social media by not advertising your vacation beforehand
- Install outdoor sensor floodlights to keep your home’s exterior illuminated
- Don’t use a Hide-a-Key, leave your key with a trusted friend or relative instead
Now that you’ve made it through Your July Homeowner To-Do, it’s time to reap the rewards. Kick back with a cool drink and enjoy your home and yard as it should be. Comfortable and inviting!