3 Home Maintenance Tips For Chicago Summers

In summertime, your biggest care should be about cooking enough food for your summer party, and not how to repair a rotted deck or a leaky appliance. Prevention is the key to summer home maintenance in Chicago. When you inspect and fix little issues, you can avoid larger, more expensive projects in the future. Here’s 3 summer home maintenance tips that keep you in control of your house’s maintenance before larger problems start.

1. Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Summer is the perfect time in Chicago to increase your home’s energy efficiency so that you can keep the heat out and lower your utility bills. Start by checking your windows and doors for leaks that let air in. Put weatherstripping on doors or replace broken weatherstripping if you feel air passing through. Inspect your windows’ caulking for any cracks or missing pieces and replace it as needed.

Putting up energy efficient window treatments like plantation shutters is another way to reduce your energy bill - and potentially qualify for a tax credit. Polywood® faux wood plantation shutters lower the transfer of air through the glass in your windows. They’re 70% more energy efficient than traditional wooden shutters and 1600% more energy efficient than aluminum blinds which are found in many homes.

2. Brighten Up Your Patios And Decks

If you want to entertain on your patio or porch during the summer, check that it’s in the best shape for guests. Start by inspecting your patio or deck for safety. Look underneath to see if there are any stairs, supports, or boards that need replacing because they’re broken or rotting. Then stain or seal your deck and patio to give it a fresh look and protect it from the hot summer sun and rain.

Once you’ve replaced or repaired any soft boards and areas and sealed your patio, it’s time to make it shine. You can add interest to the windows and doors next to your porch and patio by adding window treatments such as plantation shutters for your french door or sliding doors or sidelight shutters. Then make your porch or patio a haven by bringing in new patio furniture or a fire pit. Finally, landscape the edges of your porch or patio to bring nature into the space.

3. Maintain Large Appliances

Broken or leaky appliances can put a stop to your summer activities. Here’s a list of things to do to maintain your major appliances and keep them running smoothly:

● Refrigerator. Clogged refrigerator coils can increase your electric bill by making your fridge work harder. It’s easy to vacuum them out. Begin by unplugging your refrigerator and then use your vacuum’s crevice tool (or a coil cleaning brush attachment) to vacuum out and unclog the coils.

● Dishwasher. Inspect your dishwasher for any leaks or backed up water. Then deep clean and deodorize it by running a cycle with a cup of vinegar. You’ll also want to empty and clean the filter (located under the spray arms in most models) with soap and water.

● Washer and dryer. Check your washing machine hoses for any leaks, cracks, or bulges. If needed, replace the hoses. You should clean your dryer hose and exterior vent annually or pay a professional to do the job.

Have A Fun Summer

By keeping on top of your home and appliances, you can enjoy a relaxing summer. If you want to give your house a fresh look this season with window treatments for your patios, dining rooms, or living rooms, look through our idea gallery and then call us for a free in-home consultation at 847-250-6544. We’ll show you all your window treatment options in Chicago and do all the measuring, work, and installation so you can sit back and enjoy your summer.