Preparing your home for summer - an easy 10-step guide
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With warmer weather finally here, it seems that summer is well on the way. But apart from BBQs, alfresco dining, sunbathing, and country walks, it’s also a brilliant time for property maintenance. So why not start now and make sure your home is ready for the summer days ahead? Here are a few suggestions about what you can do.
Exterior paint
The summer months are a great time to tackle exterior paintwork, thanks to the drier weather. A coat of paint on your front door and window frames could revitalise your home’s curb appeal, while fences and walls could benefit from a clean coat of outdoor paint to revitalise them.
Clean gutters
The guttering could still be full of leaves and debris from the winter season, so it’s a good idea to clean out gutters and downpipes as the weather gets drier.
Check the roof
It may be a good idea, as the winter weather could have taken its toll, causing damage. Rectifying a small issue now, such as broken or missing tiles, could prevent it from escalating into something larger and more expensive, such as a leaking roof, when the bad weather returns.
Clean the windows
Windows get dirty with grime, cobwebs, dead insects, and dirt, so it’s a good idea to give them a good clean, inside and out. This will give your home a brighter look both on the interior and exterior.
Clean/repair driveway and decking
Driveways inevitably get tired and grubby, often with weeds growing between slabs. A power washer can create great results, producing a fresh, clean surface in minutes, although always check it is suitable for the surface of the driveway. Likewise, give decking a good clean to remove surface dirt and green algae, and recoat it with a suitable oil-based treatment.
Revamp garden furniture
Get your garden furniture out, remove cobwebs and other debris and clean with warm, soapy water. A coat of weather-proof paint or varnish can produce a transformation, as well giving a new lease of life.
Clean the BBQ
It’s important to clean the BBQ after use, but it’s always a good idea to deep clean the BBQ in late spring/early summer, removing layers of burnt food and oil, before you start to use it for alfresco dining. Be prepared to soak the grilles in lots of soapy water before cleaning off any burnt remnants with a grill brush or cloth.
Keep an eye out for mould growth
Mould spores may have accumulated during the winter, often on window frames, so keep your home well-ventilated to avoid mould and mildew formation. If you find mould, clean it with soapy water and dry the area completely.
Declutter
Spring/summer is a great time to declutter your home, sorting out things that have built up and you no longer need. Once you’ve had a clearout, your home will look more orderly and spacious, and you’ll be able to see more clearly if anything needs doing.
Get gardening
As spring turns into summer, gardens tend to take on a life of their own, growing in all directions. Now is the time to get pruning, weeding and planting, creating a pleasant outdoor space in which you can relax. Mowing the lawn can make a huge difference, providing an instant tidy-up. Pots and hanging baskets can create a stunning look but will require regular watering.
Add a touch of colour
Add some fresh colours to give your home a seasonal refresh. Whether it’s paint, cushions, throws, or bed linen, it’s easy to revitalise a room with strong colours or pastel shades. Accessories or upcycled furniture pieces can transform a room, adding character and personality.
Talk to NLIG
We hope the above pointers have given you some food for thought and that you enjoy preparing your home and garden for the summer. If you’d like to discuss your home insurance, whether you wish to renew, add any changes or require a quote, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Call us on 01992 703 300 or email us at insurance@nlig.co.uk