Virginia's Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

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The Ultimate Summer Home Maintenance Checklist for Virginia

Summer brings warm sunshine, outdoor activities, and all kinds of fun and relaxation in Virginia. It's the perfect time to enjoy life and, but also the perfect time to make sure you're up-to-date with your home maintenance tasks.

Regular maintenance during our hot and steamy months prevents expensive repairs and gives you peace of mind so you can fully enjoy Virginia’s summer without worrying about unexpected problems. At NNINS, we've seen it all. Our summer home maintenance checklist will help you protect your investment and make the most of the season.

Why is Summer Upkeep Important?

Neglecting summer home maintenance leads to costly problems and home insurance claims. Clogged gutters cause water damage to foundations and roofs. Dirty air filters reduce HVAC efficiency, increasing energy bills and harming your air quality. Unmaintained decks develop rot and structural weaknesses.

Regular upkeep prevents these issues while preserving your home's value and lower home insurance rates. A well-maintained property also typically sells for more than comparable neglected homes. Proper maintenance also extends the lifespan of your home's systems and structures, saving thousands in premature replacements.

NNINS has identified key areas that require summer attention: roofs, gutters, HVAC systems, decks, and foundations. 

Home Exterior and Yard Maintenance

Summer in Virginia offers the perfect weather for exterior home maintenance and yard upkeep. The warm, dry conditions make it easier to spot problems, complete repairs, and maintain your property's curb appeal.

Weather plays a significant role in scheduling outdoor tasks. Rain can delay painting or roof work, while Virginia's extreme heat and humidity might require early morning or evening scheduling for lawn care and gardening activities. Because of this, it's important to take a moment to take stock of your task list, check the forecast, and plan accordingly.

Clean gutters and downspouts

Regular gutter maintenance prevents expensive water damage repairs and protects your home's structural integrity during summer thunderstorms. Clogged gutters cause water damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Keep your home safe with these simple steps:

• Remove debris by hand or with a scoop from a stable ladder
• Flush remaining dirt with a garden hose
• Check for proper water flow throughout the gutter system
• Clear downspouts using water from bottom up
• Use a plumber's snake for stubborn clogs

Inspect roofing and flashing

Summer heat and  storms can damage your roof without warning. Annual inspections by a professional helps identify problems before they worsen. They will check for:

• Check for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
• Examine flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for gaps or rust
• Look for sagging areas that indicate structural problems beneath

Catching these issues early prevents costly repairs later. Your roof protects everything below it so don't wait for leaks to appear before giving it attention.

Wash windows and repair screens

Clean windows and intact screens improve your home's appearance, let in more natural light, and protects your home. Keep screens in good condition to enjoy fresh air without bugs:

• Remove and wash screens with mild soap solution
• Repair torn screens with patch kits or replacement mesh
• Mix vinegar and water for streak-free window cleaning
• Use a squeegee for professional-looking results
• Clean on cloudy days to prevent premature drying

Care for landscaping and lawn

Regular yard maintenance not only boosts curb appeal but creates a nice space for summer activities. Maintain your outdoor spaces with these simple steps:

• Mow lawn at proper height (3-4 inches for most grass types)
• Water deeply but infrequently to promote root growth
• Apply fertilizer based on soil testing results
• Edge beds and walkways for a clean appearance
• Mulch garden beds to retain moisture and prevent weeds
• Prune shrubs and trees to maintain shape and health and to protect your home during severe weather.

Maintain deck and patio

Regular attention to your deck or patio prevents costly repairs and ensures your outdoor entertaining spaces remain beautiful and functional all summer long. Keep your outdoor living spaces in top condition with these maintenance tasks:

• Sweep and wash deck/patio surfaces to remove debris and prevent staining
• Check for loose boards, cracked pavers, or damaged railings
• Apply appropriate sealant every 1-2 years to protect from weather damage
• Remove moss or mildew growth with appropriate cleaners

Summertime Interior Home Maintenance 

While maintaining your yard and outdoor spaces is important, the interior systems of your home need equal attention during summer. Your home's internal components work harder in hot weather, making summer the perfect time for a thorough inspection and maintenance routine.

The heat and humidity of summer months can stress indoor systems and create ideal conditions for pests seeking shelter. Taking time now to check these critical areas prevents problems that could damage your home or compromise your family's comfort and safety.

Service HVAC system

Your AC system needs regular maintenance to keep your home cool during hot Virginia summer months. Follow these simple steps:

• Replace or clean air filters to improve airflow and system efficiency
• Clear debris from outdoor condenser units to prevent overheating
• Check refrigerant levels and recharge if needed

Regular AC maintenance saves money on energy bills and prevents costly breakdowns when you need cooling most. Schedule professional service annually for optimal performance.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Properly functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors save lives by providing early warning of fire or gas leaks. Take these steps to verify they're working correctly:

• Press the test button monthly to confirm the alarms sound properly
• Replace batteries twice yearly (when changing clocks for daylight saving time)
• Vacuum detector vents to remove dust that might affect sensitivity

Many fire-related deaths occur in homes with non-working alarms. Testing takes just minutes but dramatically increases your family's safety. Mark your calendar for regular checks to ensure these silent guardians remain ready to alert you when danger strikes.

Inspect for pests and seal entry points

Pests can damage your home's structure and create health hazards. Regular inspection helps catch problems before they become infestations. Take these preventative measures:

• Walk your home's perimeter looking for cracks, holes, or gaps in the foundation, walls, and roof
• Check weatherstripping around doors and windows for signs of wear or damage
• Check your attic and have your roof inspected annually for signs of water intrusion and pests.

Sealing entry points blocks unwanted visitors from making your home theirs. Use appropriate materials like caulk, steel wool, or mesh screens, depending on the location and size of openings. This simple maintenance task saves you from costly extermination services and repairs later.

Get The Most Out Of Summer By Staying On Top Of Home Maintenance Tasks

Summer home maintenance protects your biggest investment and ensures your family's comfort and safety. Regular upkeep prevents small issues from becoming expensive problems and maintains your property's value.

Proactive maintenance is essential—use our checklist to address potential issues before they start. Virginia homes face specific seasonal risks, and at NNINS, we have the local expertise to help you manage them effectively. And remember summer also means hurricane season for Virginians, so be sure to check out top risks for homes in the commonwealth.

As your local insurance partner, we're ready to help safeguard your home. Contact NNINS today for personalized coverage that gives you peace of mind all summer long. 

THE NORTHERN NECK INSURANCE INTEGRITY PROMISE — We pledge to provide straight talk and good counsel from our NNINS Virginia insurance experts through our blog. While we hope you find this to be a helpful source of information, it does not replace the guidance of a licensed insurance professional, nor does it modify the terms of your Northern Neck Insurance policy in any way. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy.