Summer Home Maintenance Checklist: What to Fix, Swap and Deep Clean

The outside of your home takes the brunt of the elements year-round, but summer is when it really shows. Whether it’s worn-down patio furniture, faded paint or overgrown walkways, the good news is that most of these fixes are straightforward once you know what to look for.

Balconies, Patios and Decks

Start by clearing everything off so you can inspect the surfaces properly. Look for cracked boards, loose railings, peeling paint and mildew stains. A quick pressure wash or scrub with warm, soapy water can work wonders. If the finish on your deck or balcony is faded or flaking, a fresh coat of paint or sealant will protect it from sun damage and afternoon downpours.

Outdoor Furniture and Grills

Before you bring out the cushions and fire up the grill, give everything a good once-over. Wipe down tables and chairs with mild soap and water, and inspect the metal frames for signs of rust. Outdoor cushions should be cleaned and treated with a fabric protectant to help them withstand UV rays and rain. For the grill, clean grates thoroughly, check connections on gas models and make sure you have propane and/or charcoal stocked and ready.

Yard and Landscaping

It’s easy to let landscaping slide after spring cleanup, but a quick refresh can make your outdoor space feel polished. Trim shrubs and trees away from the house, clear walkways and edge flower beds for a neat, defined look. Don’t forget to inspect your irrigation system — clogged sprinkler heads or leaks can waste water fast when the heat sets in.

Facade and Windows

Summer light will highlight every smudge and bit of grime on your windows, so give exterior glass a thorough clean and take the time to inspect your siding, brick or stucco for cracks and damage.

Driveways and Walkways

Sweep away dirt and debris, paying particular attention to cracks or uneven areas that could become trip hazards. If you spot minor cracks in concrete or pavers, patch them up before they worsen with heavy foot traffic or summer rain.

Gutters and Downspouts

Even if you cleared them in the spring, it’s smart to give gutters and downspouts another check before summer storms hit. Remove leaves, twigs and buildup so rainwater flows freely. Clogged gutters can cause overflow and lead to water pooling near your foundation.

Storm Preparation

Summer storms have a habit of sneaking up, especially in areas prone to hurricanes or thunderstorms. Trim back large tree branches near your roof, clear loose debris from your yard and secure lightweight furniture or planters. It only takes one strong gust to turn an overlooked item into a hazard.

It’s easy to focus on the outside of your home this time of year, but small interior maintenance checks can make just as much of a difference, especially when it comes to keeping your space cool, comfortable and organized.

Cooling Systems and Fans

Before the first major heat wave rolls in, check that your cooling systems are ready. Swap out AC filters — ideally every one to two months during heavy use — and clean dust from vents and registers. If you have ceiling fans, give the blades a good wipe and switch them to run counterclockwise to help push cool air down.

Windows and Doors

Inspect window screens for holes or tears (small patch kits can fix most issues without replacing the entire screen). Clean window tracks and sliding door rails so they open easily. Check seals and weather stripping too; gaps let cool air escape and hot air sneak in, making your AC work overtime.

Bedding and Linens

As the temperatures climb, swap out heavy comforters, blankets and flannel sheets for lightweight, breathable options like cotton or linen. Before packing winter bedding away, wash everything and store it in airtight bins or vacuum bags to keep moisture and pests out. It’s also a good time to rotate throw pillows and slipcovers for lighter fabrics that feel seasonally fresh.

General Decluttering and Cleaning Tips

• Wipe down baseboards, vents and light switches.
• Spot-clean rugs and high-traffic areas of carpet.
• Wash interior windows to let in more natural light.
• Declutter entryways to avoid that “piled-up” look near doors.
• Empty and reorganize closets, making space for summer essentials.

Storage spaces tend to collect more than just seasonal gear. They gather dust, forgotten items and sometimes a few surprises you’d rather avoid. Summer is the perfect time to check in on these spots and make sure everything you’re storing is actually protected from heat, humidity and pests.

Garage

Start by giving the garage floor a good sweep and clearing out any debris that’s piled up over the winter and spring. Group similar items together so tools, sports gear and garden supplies are easy to find when you need them. This is also your cue to swap seasonal equipment: snow shovels and winter gear can be cleaned and packed away, while lawn tools, bikes and summer gear should be front and center.

Basement and Attic

Basements and attics are prone to moisture, pests and forgotten clutter. Take a moment to inspect these areas for any signs of leaks, mildew or unwanted critters. Reorganize stored items so anything you might need this summer is easy to access, and be sure stored fabrics, electronics and keepsakes are packed in sealed bins, not flimsy cardboard. If you have heat-sensitive items, consider moving them to a climate-controlled storage unit.

Self-Storage Unit

If you rent a storage unit, a quick summer check-in is well worth it. Look for signs of moisture, humidity buildup or pests, especially if your unit isn’t climate-controlled. Consider upgrading to a climate-controlled unit if you’re storing items that don’t handle heat well, like wood furniture, electronics and fabrics. It’s also a great time to rotate belongings. Move bulky winter items into storage and bring home summer must-haves like patio cushions, camping gear or pool supplies.

Once you’ve tackled the big-ticket items inside and out, a few small but important tasks will help round out your summer home prep. These are easy to overlook but make a real difference in keeping your home safe, functional and low-maintenance as the season heats up:

• Pest prevention: Walk the perimeter of your home and check for gaps, cracks and signs of insects or rodents. Seal up small openings and treat problem areas with pest control products, especially around doors and windows.
• Foundation and drainage check: Inspect the foundation for cracks or signs of shifting. Make sure downspouts are clear and directing water away from your home to prevent pooling and moisture damage.
• Hoses and outdoor water sources: Test garden hoses and outdoor faucets for leaks or weak water pressure. A worn-out hose washer or loose connection can waste more water than you think.
• Safety essentials: Double-check that smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers are in working order. Stock up on summer essentials like batteries, flashlights, basic first aid supplies, etc., so you’re covered for storms or power outages.

Ready to find a storage unit for your belongings? Use our Storage Locator to find a facility near you. For more tips on staying organized, head to the SmartStop blog.