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“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” — Benjamin Franklin
As spring turns into summer, May is the sweet spot for prepping your home. It’s warm enough to work outside, but not yet blazing hot—and it’s your last call to tackle seasonal tasks before summer chaos sets in. This handy home maintenance checklist covers everything you need to do now to save money, prevent future damage, and create a more comfortable living space.
Let’s take it step-by-step!
1. Check and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Spring showers and leftover debris from winter can clog your gutters. Clean them out and make sure downspouts are directing water away from your foundation.
Helpful tool: Gutter Cleaning Kit
2. Inspect Your Roof for Damage
Grab a pair of binoculars or safely climb a ladder. Look for missing shingles, moss, or signs of sagging. Schedule a pro if anything looks questionable.
3. Service Your HVAC System
Before you crank up the A/C, change the filter and consider scheduling a tune-up. Clean vents and registers inside your home.
Filter refill: HEPA Air Filters
4. Power Wash the Exterior
Remove built-up dirt and mildew from siding, porches, and decks. Your home will instantly look brighter.
Power washer pick: Electric Pressure Washer
5. Inspect Windows and Doors
Check seals, clean tracks, and inspect for drafts. Re-caulk or weatherstrip if needed.
Caulking set: Window Caulk Kit
6. Prep Your Lawn and Garden
Fertilize, mow, weed, and edge. Add mulch to garden beds and trim any overgrown branches.
Lawn essentials: Garden Tool Set
7. Test Safety Devices
Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Check fire extinguishers, too.
Essential: Smoke & CO Detector Combo
8. Clean and Prep Outdoor Furniture
Wipe down chairs, tables, and cushions. If they’re looking rough, a quick coat of spray paint or sealant can bring them back to life.
Outdoor spray paint: Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch
9. Inspect Driveways and Walkways
Fill cracks with concrete filler and check for loose stones or pavers. This helps avoid tripping hazards and prevents bigger issues later.
10. Organize Tools and Storage Areas
Clear out the garage or shed. Donate unused items and store tools where they’re easy to access for summer projects.
Looking for more tips? Explore our other articles https://readypreplists.com/blog-archive/ to stay prepared!
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