By August, our homes and yards have already been through months of heat, afternoon thunderstorms, heavy rain, fast-growing vegetation, and regular summer use. Late summer is a good time to take a slow walk around your property and look for the little things that may need attention before fall arrives.
Catching a small problem now can often keep it from becoming a more expensive repair later.
Start With the Trees
Summer storms can leave behind broken limbs that are not always easy to see from the house. Look for branches hanging over the driveway, touching the roof, or resting against other trees.
Low limbs can also become a nuisance when mowing or driving around the property. This is where newer battery-operated tools, such as a small chainsaw or lopper, can make routine trimming much easier.
Check Gutters and Drainage
Heavy summer rain can fill gutters with leaves, twigs, and other debris. Make sure the gutters are clear, and downspouts carry water away from the foundation.
Then look at how water has been moving across the property. Do you see new washed-out areas, standing water, or erosion along the driveway or yard?
Drainage problems are much easier to address when you notice them early.
Look Closely at the House
Walk around the exterior and take a good look at the siding, trim, windows, screens, porches, and foundation.
You may notice peeling paint, spider webs, mildew, loose trim, or areas that simply need a light cleaning.
Trim shrubs and vines that are growing against the house, covering windows, or crowding the HVAC equipment.
Don't Forget Steps, Decks and Walkways
Check porch steps, deck boards, and handrails for anything loose. Look at sidewalks and walkways for uneven areas that could become a tripping hazard.
Gravel driveways may also need a little attention after repeated summer storms. Small ruts and washed-out areas are easier to repair before they get larger.
Make a Simple Fall List
You do not have to complete every project in one afternoon.
Take a few pictures and make a short list of what needs cleaning, trimming, repair, or professional scheduling.
Late Summer Property Checklist
Check trees for broken or low limbs
Clean gutters and downspouts
Look for drainage or erosion problems
Trim shrubs away from the house
Check siding, trim, screens, and paint
Inspect decks, steps, and handrails
Look for driveway washouts or ruts
Clean around sheds and outbuildings
Make a list of projects to complete before fall
Property maintenance is much easier when you stay ahead of it. A few minutes spent walking around the property now may help you spot the small jobs before they turn into bigger ones.
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