Summer Home Maintenance Tips

Is your home ready for summer?

Lots of us take time off over the Christmas and New Year period and while the weather is good, it’s a great time to catch up on those chores that are hard to fit into our daily schedules. Here are our top tips to enjoy your holiday and your look after home.

Gardens that compliment your home.

Nothing can survive a hot Perth summer without water, but living in a hot dry climate means it’s important not to waste water. Reticulation is a great investment and much more efficient than hand watering. Check that your reticulation is working properly by turning on the sprinklers and looking for dry spots where the water isn’t getting through. It’s simple to adjust the sprinkler head to ensure its watering your lawn and plants rather than the driveway or pavement. Dismantle and rinse damaged sprinklers under running water and replace if necessary. Use a slow release fertiliser – strong healthy plants need less water. Check your watering days and water in the cool of the morning for maximum effect.

• Enjoying your garden is a great way to de-stress

Check your exterior paintwork

Perth’s hot dry summers demand a lot from paint, and the winds of spring and summer can create a build-up of dust and salts. Washing the paintwork will freshen up the look of your home and gives you the opportunity to check for any cracking or flaking. While you’re at it clean the windows and remove any cobwebs and check your security lights are working. Sparkling windows and clean paintwork make your home look loved and cared for

• A bit of DIY is the perfect way to work off those extra Christmas calories

Pamper your paving

Summer is the best time to revitalise your paving with a thorough pressure wash. Oil stains happen from time to time and it’s important to deal with them as soon as you can. If stains are recent and relatively small, some undiluted detergent, hot water and a good scrub with a stiff brush will do the trick. If the stain is older and dark, then head to the hardware or auto accessory shop and grab a can of degreaser. Follow the instructions on the can and book your car in for a service.

• Don’t ignore oil leaks – they can be a sign of something more serious

Pay attention to your pool

Perth home owners love their pools in summer, so it makes sense to get the pump and filter checked and serviced annually. For safety, check your pool fence and gates are sound and working properly and ensure there is nothing close to them that can provide a foothold for adventurous little ones. If you have frameless glass fences, hose them down regularly to keep them sparkling. Ensure any pool chemicals are stored safely out of reach from children and pets. Also check the water levels, PH and chemicals regularly.

• If you own a pool, consider doing a first aid course – it could save a life

Don’t forget the deck

Summer is the perfect time for barbecues with family and friends. To make sure your deck is looking its best, wash down with a pressure hose and when its dry, reseal it with a good quality sealer. Take an extra few minutes to check for any termite damage or loose, uneven boards.

• Entertaining at home is fun, phone a few friends and make the most of your summer break