Late Summer Home Maintenance and Lawn Care Tips

As summer slowly fades into fall, late summer is the perfect time to ensure your home and lawn are in top shape. The warm days and cooler nights offer ideal conditions for maintenance that will prepare your property for the colder months ahead. Here are some essential tips to keep your home and lawn in prime condition.

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters

Late summer is a great time to check your gutters for debris. Over the summer, leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate, leading to blockages. Clean out your gutters to ensure they’re ready to handle fall rains. This simple task can prevent water damage to your roof and foundation.

2. Check Your Roof

The summer sun can be harsh on your roof. Take the time to inspect it for any signs of damage, such as missing or cracked shingles. If you notice any issues, consider having a professional inspection done to address any potential problems before they worsen.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Walk around your home and check for any gaps or cracks in your windows, doors, and foundation. Sealing these with caulk or weather-stripping can improve energy efficiency by keeping the cool air in and the hot air out during the remaining summer weeks. It will also help keep your home warm and cozy when the temperatures start to drop.

4. Service Your HVAC System

Your air conditioning system has likely been working overtime during the hot summer months. Late summer is the perfect time to have it serviced. Replace filters and consider having a professional tune-up to ensure it’s running efficiently. This is also a good time to check your heating system before it’s needed in the fall.

5. Lawn Care and Maintenance

Late summer is a crucial time for lawn care. The following tips will help you keep your lawn healthy and prepare it for the cooler months:

• Mow Regularly: Keep mowing your lawn regularly, but raise the blade on your mower. Longer grass helps shade the soil, keeping it cool and retaining moisture.
• Water Wisely: Water your lawn in the early morning to reduce evaporation and ensure deep root growth. Avoid watering in the evening as it can lead to fungal growth.
• Fertilize: Late summer is an excellent time to apply fertilizer to your lawn. Choose a slow-release fertilizer to nourish your grass through the fall.
• Weed Control: Keep an eye out for weeds that may have cropped up over the summer. Pull them out by hand or use a targeted herbicide to prevent them from seeding and spreading.
• Aerate the Lawn: If your lawn sees a lot of foot traffic, late summer is a good time to aerate. This process helps loosen compacted soil and allows water, air, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots.

6. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Overgrown trees and shrubs can become a problem during late summer storms. Trim any branches that are too close to your home, power lines, or other structures. This will reduce the risk of damage during high winds and heavy rains.

7. Inspect Outdoor Lighting

As the days grow shorter, outdoor lighting becomes increasingly important. Check all exterior lights, including pathway lights, porch lights, and security lights. Replace any burned-out bulbs and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED options.

8. Prepare Outdoor Furniture

Late summer is a good time to clean and store outdoor furniture. Wash cushions and furniture, and store them in a dry, sheltered location to prevent damage from rain or early frost. If you plan to leave some furniture outside, invest in weather-resistant covers to protect them from the elements.

9. Check Your Foundation

Inspect your home’s foundation for any cracks or signs of settling. If you notice any issues, consider consulting a professional to assess the situation. Addressing foundation problems early can save you from costly repairs down the line.

10. Plan for Fall Landscaping

Start thinking about your fall landscaping projects. Late summer is the perfect time to plan and plant trees, shrubs, and perennials. Choose plants that thrive in cooler weather to enhance your garden's beauty throughout the fall.

Conclusion

Taking the time to address these late summer home maintenance and lawn care tasks will help protect your investment and keep your home and lawn looking their best. By staying proactive, you can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free transition into the fall season. If you need any assistance with home inspections or identifying potential issues, Nexus Home Inspections is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or to learn more about how we can help you maintain your home.

Don't forget to call or text Nexus Home Inspections today at 607.423.4202 for your home inspection needs.