Your Pre-Summer Home Maintenance Checklist – With a Painter’s Eye!

Now’s the perfect time to give your home a little TLC. A few proactive maintenance steps this spring can help you avoid costly repairs later—and keep your paint job (and curb appeal) looking fresh and fabulous.

Pro Tip: Set a calendar reminder every April or May so you can stay on top of these seasonal tasks!

Exterior Paint & Siding Check

Take a slow walk around your house – and don’t forget that shady side you tend to avoid. Here’s what to look for:

• Peeling, cracking, or flaking paint: These are more than just cosmetic issues; they’re signs that your paint’s protective power is fading.
• Cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and your foundation: These are like an open door for water damage and creepy crawlies that can cause damage.
• Wood rot: Pay extra attention to wood trim, siding, and frames, looking for any damage. If you catch wood rot early, it’s an easy fix. Otherwise, it can turn into a four-digit repair nightmare.

Pro Tip: Any peeling or fading paint or exposed wood might be time for a professional touch-ur or a full repaint before summer storms roll in.

Spring Garden Cleanup (Your House Will Thank You)

Winter can leave your yard a mess. Cleaning up your yard early allows your home—and your paint—to breathe!

• Rake up debris, especially near the foundation, where moisture and mold can collect.
• Trim back shrubs and tree branches that are touching your siding (they can wear down your paint or trap moisture).
• Check for irrigation leaks that could lead to moisture damage on your home’s exterior.
• If you didn’t clean your gutters in the fall, now is a good time to do it before summer rains hit. Overflowing gutters can equal water-stained siding and peeling paint.

HVAC Maintenance

Your HVAC system keeps you cool or warm, but only if it’s running efficiently. We highly recommend having an HVAC pro service and inspecting it every spring and fall.

• Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan.
• Change those filters (or have them changed) when your unit gets serviced.
• A well-maintained system also helps with indoor humidity, protecting paint from bubbling or peeling indoors.

Insects & Pests & Big Problems

Insects can wreak havoc on painted surfaces and wood.

• Inspect the exterior for burrowing signs or wood damage (termites, carpenter bees, squirrels, and other critters are not your friends). You’ll want to keep them out.
• Seal all cracks and gaps. Paint alone can’t keep the bugs out if your house is full of openings.
• Drain standing water around the property to stop mosquitoes from setting up shop.

Don’t Forget the Forgotten Spaces

Got an attic, crawl space, or shed? Inspect them!

• Look for moisture or insect issues that could cause bigger headaches (like mold or rot).
• Check insulation, wiring, and ductwork. Squirrels don’t care about your paint job—but they will chew things and can cause extensive and expensive damage inside your home.

Pro Tip:  If you’re storing paint in these areas, make sure it’s sealed tight and hasn’t gone bad.

Final Thoughts from Your Friendly Painter

Regular maintenance isn’t just about keeping your home looking nice—it’s about protecting your most significant investment. And paint is not just pretty. It’s a powerful barrier against the elements. So if your exterior is showing signs of wear, give us a call. A fresh coat of paint now could save you thousands later.

 

Need a paint pro to inspect your home or give you a quote? Home Works Painting in Northern Virginia would love to help you get summer-ready!

FAQ

1. Why is summer the ideal time for home painting and maintenance?

Summer offers stable weather conditions, which are crucial for a successful paint job. Warm and dry days allow paint to cure properly, reducing the risk of peeling, cracking, or uneven drying. Additionally, longer daylight hours make it easier to complete exterior and interior projects efficiently.

2. What should I inspect on my home’s exterior before starting any painting project?

Check for peeling, chipped, or faded paint, as well as any cracks or damage to siding and trim. Repairing these issues before painting ensures a smoother finish and helps protect your home from moisture and sun damage. Also, clean surfaces thoroughly to remove dirt, dust, and debris for optimal paint adhesion.

3. How can I protect my home’s paint from summer weather challenges?

Choose high-quality, UV-resistant paints to combat fading from sunlight. Paint during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid rapid drying and brush marks. Avoid painting on days with high humidity or rain in the forecast, as this can affect drying and finish quality.

4. What indoor preparations should I make before painting?

Move or cover furniture, remove wall décor, and protect flooring with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. Ensure good ventilation by opening windows and using fans, which helps paint dry faster and reduces fumes. Wear protective clothing to prevent skin irritation or sunburn if working near windows or in sunlit rooms.

5. Are there other summer maintenance tasks I should combine with painting?

Yes, summer is also a great time to inspect and clean gutters, check for foundation cracks, wash windows, and prune trees or shrubs near the house. Performing these tasks alongside painting enhances your home’s appearance and helps prevent future maintenance issues.