The Morning Call (Sunday)

Keep summer projects checklist on track with these tasks

- By Cathy Hobbs

Now that summer is approachin­g, for many, it signals lazy days and longer nights. It may also be a good time to catch up on maintenanc­e and complete all of your to-do projects around the house. Here are 10 tasks to help keep your checklist on track.

1. Gutter maintenanc­e:

In many parts of the country, the summer is a time of heavy rains and a great time to ensure your gutters are in top shape before the arrival of fall leaves.

2. House repainting: After a winter beating, your house may be worse for the wear. The summer is a good time to take on an exterior painting project when days are longer and sunny.

3. Lawn maintenanc­e: Those who live in colder climates may be surprised after the winter thaw to find brown grass or empty patches. Summer is a good time to seed your lawn and replant any landscape that may not have survived.

4. Home improvemen­t projects: So many homeowners wait until summer to take on the home improvemen­t projects that have been on their wish list all year. Looking for ideas? Why not incorporat­e a fire pit or stone patio into your outdoor environmen­t?

5. Tree maintenanc­e: Following the winter hibernatio­n period, all of nature’s creatures are back. Often low-hanging branches may be an attractive means of access to your attic or roof for a curious animal.

6. Insect control: You may want to protect your backyard barbecues and picnics from unwanted visitors.

7. Driveway repaving: Just like how potholes are created in the street from severe weather damage, your driveway may need a fresh coat to help ensure a smooth ride home.

8. Check your water connection­s: From outdoor kitchen faucets to garden hoses, now is a good time to make sure everything is in working order.

9. Purge: Now is a great time to clear out that basement, shed or attic and get rid of all those unwanted and unused items.

10. Check windows and doors: In the summer months, there is a desire to keep cool temperatur­es in. Summer is a good time to consider upgrading or replacing doors and windows.

 ?? OLEKSANDR RADO/ DREAMSTIME ?? Ensure your gutters are in top shape before the arrival of fall leaves.
OLEKSANDR RADO/ DREAMSTIME Ensure your gutters are in top shape before the arrival of fall leaves.

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