As we say goodbye to winter and the cold weather, we’re finally starting to see some sun! It’s drawn thoughts towards how the house will be looking when the BBQs and summer parties begin. If you need to spruce up your home for summer, try these tips for both the inside and outside.
If the weather’s kind to us this summer (which it probably won’t be, let’s be honest), then the outside is where you’ll be spending most of your time. Get the outside of your home in top shape, and make the best first impression possible to your guests. There’s quick fixes and more long-term thinking solutions – pick whichever works best for you.
You may spot pests outdoors and see some tell-tale signs of potential infestation indoors if you fail to do enough to counterattack these unwanted enemies. And you should definitely take the seriously. Statistics show that pests cause billions of dollars worth of damage to homes every year. But sweat not, homeowners, because a few simple and effective solutions are enough to build your defences.
So let's get into it and suggest some easy tips to keep your home smelling fresh this season. Here is a checklist you can rely on to summer-proof your home.
Keep Your Place Squeaky Clean
Well, that's a given because a squeaky clean home looks good and offers happy vibes. Most importantly, it doesn't make an ideal place for pests to thrive. Imagine how they can multiply when you have dirty dishes in the sink, crumbs on the floor, and overflowing trash cans in the kitchen and outside. You may feel lazy cleaning the mess, but leaving it there is just like an open invitation to pests. Be regular with cleaning up after yourself, your kids, and your furry friends, specifically at this time of the year.
Eliminate Potential Hiding Spaces
Besides keeping your place clean inside and outside, commit to eliminating potential hiding spaces for bugs and pests. The more places they get to hide, the more likely they are to multiply and cause infestation. A decluttering project is the best way to start summer-proofing your place. Purge all useless things from your living space, kitchen, attic, garage, and garden. You'll solve half the problem before it starts.
Seal All Cracks and Crevices
Now that we got the cleaning and decluttering out of the way, let's talk about keeping pests out of your home. You can do it by sealing up those cracks and crevices that may let these tiny intruders in. Bugs and rodents can easily sneak in through the smallest openings, so you should seal them up well before spring. Use caulk or weatherstripping to close up gaps around windows and doors. Fill the holes or gaps in walls or floors with steel wool. These steps make a huge difference in keeping pests at bay.
Watch Out for Warning Signs
The worst thing about summer pests is that they may thrive in your home without showing up. In fact, you may end up with a major infestation unexpectedly. Well, being vigilant is the best defence strategy, so watch out for early warning signs such as strange smells, scratch marks, droppings, shed wings, and unexplained sounds. Also, act quickly by addressing infestations with local pest control instead of trying DIY or waiting for the situation to worsen. Calling an expert at the first sight of warning signs is a wise move. They can identify the culprits, spot them in their hiding spaces, and eliminate them with appropriate measures. You have peace of mind with a pest-free home without any heavy lifting.
Follow the Food Storage Rules
This one is essential, but you will be surprised that most homeowners fail to follow the food storage rules. You are more likely to leave stuff outside after summer get-togethers and backyard barbecues. It's the worst mistake because pests love food, and they'll do anything to get to it. Even worse, they will make their homes around any place where food is easily accessible. Following the food storage rules is easy, and it can save your home from pest infestations. Keep all food items in airtight containers, and don't leave anything out on the counters overnight. Also, clean up any spills or crumbs right away, no matter how lazy you feel.
Trim the Trees and Bushes
Believe it or not, the landscaping around your house can also attract pests. So cleaning the exteriors is as crucial as keeping the interiors squeaky clean. Overgrown trees and bushes are real culprits as they provide a cool and shady hiding spot for pests. Trim them regularly to minimize the hiding space. As a bonus, your garden looks neat and pretty after regular trims.
Keep Your Garden Tidy
When it comes to working on your outdoor space, you've also got to keep your yard tidy. Grass clippings and piles of leaves can attract pests. You may have lots of them around spring and early summer, so clean them up every couple of days. Clear the leftovers after your barbecue get-togethers because food is one thing these pesky intruders always chase. And if you have a pet, don't leave their food or water in the yard overnight. They can also attract outdoor pests.
Fix Any Leaks
Besides hiding spaces and food, bugs and rodents need water to survive and thrive. Any leaks inside and outside your home can be a big problem. Look for leaks in your faucets, pipes, and around your air conditioner unit. Also, check the damp areas in the kitchen and bathrooms. If you find any leaks, get them fixed right away. Fixing leaky spots does more than help keep pests away. It can save you big money on your water bill and make your home more sustainable in the long run. Most importantly, early repairs can prevent serious structural damage to your home.
The Takeaway
Summer proofing your home requires a proactive approach as you will need to prepare so you can enjoy the summer sunshine without the worry. It is absolutely essential to make sure that every nook and cranny is clear from dirt and keep an eye on lurking enemies. But I can assure you, that the effort will be worth it! You've got this.
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