Summer Maintenance Tips for Shenandoah Valley Homeowners

June is National Homeowners Month, a time to celebrate the pride and fulfillment that comes with owning a home. For residents of Harrisonburg, VA, and the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, this is the perfect opportunity to enhance your outdoor spaces, maintain your home efficiently, upgrade energy efficiency, and improve security, all tailored to our unique local area.

Enhance Your Outdoor Spaces

Summer is the ideal season to transform your outdoor areas into inviting retreats. Consider updating your patio or deck with comfortable seating that complements the scenic views of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains. Plant flowers and shrubs that thrive in the summer heat, such as sunflowers, coneflowers, and hydrangeas, to give your home a more vibrant look. Install landscape lighting, including solar-powered lights and string lights, to highlight pathways and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Prioritize Home Maintenance

Proper home maintenance during summer can prevent costly repairs and ensure your home remains comfortable and efficient. Local professionals at Dirty Dog Cleaning can aid in interior carpet cleanings, power washing, tile and grout cleaning, and lots more. Additionally, here are some essential tasks:

• Air Conditioning: Ensure your air conditioning unit is running effectively by having it inspected and serviced by a professional. Change the filter every 90 days to maintain performance and air quality.
• Home Exterior: Inspect your home’s exterior for wear and tear, including the roof, gutters, and foundation. Clean gutters and check for any clogs or damage.
• Safety Devices: Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Boost Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency upgrades are crucial during the summer when energy consumption peaks. In the Shenandoah Valley, residents can benefit from installing solar panels from Green Hill Solar to reduce reliance on the grid and lower utility bills. Other upgrades to consider:

• Solar Water Heaters: Reduce energy costs by using the sun to heat your water.
• Smart Thermostats: Automatically adjust your home’s temperature when you’re asleep or away, potentially lowering your cooling costs by up to 10%.

Improve Home Security

Home security enhancements are vital for homeowners and Airbnb owners in Harrisonburg, VA. Consider the following improvements:

• Security Systems: Install systems that include smart locks and outdoor lighting with cameras to deter potential intruders.
• Outdoor Lighting: Adding lights around your property can increase visibility and security, making it more attractive to guests of Airbnb rentals and vacation properties near Shenandoah National Park.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Summer is a time to enjoy your home, not sweat over it. And you’ll be able to do just that if you take care of preventative maintenance ahead of the hot, humid days to come.

• Cooling Equipment: Change your HVAC filter every 90 days to help maintain performance and efficiency. Consider upgrading to an advanced filter or a whole-house air filtration system.
• Smart Thermostats: Switch to a WiFi-connected device to lower cooling costs and allow remote monitoring of your system's health.
• Humidity Control: Keep indoor humidity below 60% to prevent mold and allergens. Consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas.
• Extreme Weather Preparedness: Inspect gutters for wear and tear, and ensure they can handle heavy rains. Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit.

Protect Against Pests

Summer is the season for termites, carpenter ants, mosquitoes, and ticks. Keep your home safe by:

• Termites and Carpenter Ants: Ensure gutters are working properly to avoid moist soil that attracts these pests. Keep mulch and firewood away from your home’s foundation.
• Mosquitoes: Eliminate standing water in birdbaths, empty gardening pots, and other areas.
• Ticks: Mow the lawn regularly, especially in shady parts of the yard.

Enjoy Local Summer Activities

And once you've taken care of those pesky tasks, enjoy! For those looking to enjoy the great outdoors, Shenandoah National Park offers a variety of summer activities. Key events include:

• June 1st: National Trails Day at Visitor Centers
• June 14th - 16th: Leave No Trace Weekend at Visitor Centers
• June 18th: National Go Fishing Day
• June 19th: Fee Free: Juneteenth National Independence Day at All National Parks
• June 22nd: A Walk for Sunshine Appalachian Trail Show at Big Meadows Lodge
• June 23rd: Stroll Back in Time to a CCC Camp and Meet the President at Byrd Visitor Center

Summer is also prime time for all things outdoors, including biking, hiking, camping, and golfing. You can also make your way to our many lakes or rivers for fishing, including Mossy Creek, Silver Lake, and Slate Lick Lake.

As we celebrate National Homeowners Month in June, take the opportunity to enhance your home and its surroundings. From updating outdoor spaces and maintaining your home efficiently to upgrading energy systems and improving security, these efforts will help you enjoy the full benefits of homeownership in Harrisonburg, VA, and the Shenandoah Valley. Embrace the pride and joy of owning a home while contributing to the beauty and sustainability of our wonderful community.

For More Information & Tips Visit:

(https://www.houseofbrokers.com/blog/209/Celebrating+National+Homeowner’s+Month%3A+Your+Ultimate+Guide+To+Homeownership+Success).

For more information and homeowner tips, visit Connexa Real Estate