Summer is the perfect time to get outside and take care of home improvement projects you’ve been putting off all winter. If you have older kids at home on summer break, why not keep them busy by putting them to work painting that old fence or clearing brush from flower beds? Exterior home improvements will add beauty and value to your property. As the heat continues to rise, there are a few things we can do to prepare our homes for the season. These tips will help you keep your cool, as the temperature rises.
Prep Your AtticYou attic is largely overlooked, but is a focal point for keeping your home cool during these summer months. Did you know your attic can reach up to 150 degrees during the summer? That heat above you can rob your home of the cool air conditioning if it’s not properly insulated and maintained up there. It’s a must to inspect things like moisture in the plywood in your attic. As we know in the northwest; moisture can lead to mold. How about those exhaust fans from your kitchen and bathrooms? These, if improperly installed, can be a big contributor to the moisture buildup in your attic, ultimately causing costly repairs. Correcting improperly-installed vent pipes can not only reduce moisture, it can also reduce heat build-up in your attic. Rerouting pipes or ductwork are fairly easy fixes for this issue. However, improper ventilation isn’t the only issue. Here are some tips to help make sure your attic and roof are ready for the summer season:
- Check to make sure those exhaust fans are working well and are vented properly.
- Make sure those drains and gutters on the roof are clean and clear of debris. This will help prevent an overflow and damage during a storm.
- Make sure you check the attic and the roof for small signs of damage, and note them. These small spots can turn into large repairs if not attended to and monitored. Schedule a free roof inspection to catch anything before it gets out of hand.
- Make sure there are no missing, damaged, or loose tiles or shingles.
- Check your attic for any signs of pests. This (as we know) can turn into a major problem quickly. If you spot any signs, make sure to schedule an appointment with a pest elimination company as soon as you can.
As a note, make sure you have someone with you during your attic and roof check for safety. Feel free to schedule your inspection with us to identify the problems before they become major concerns.
