Your Summer Home Fix-It List

Hi friends,

We’re halfway through the year (how?!)—which makes it the perfect time to give your home a little love before summer flies by and fall creeps in.

Mid-year is that sweet spot where you’re not battling snow or scrambling for holiday prep. It’s a chance to catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs—and to give your home a quick once-over that says, “Hey, I’ve got this.”

Here’s your no-stress, SLC-savvy home maintenance checklist to keep everything running smoothly:

1. Check the Roof and Gutters

Summer storms in Utah? Sudden and serious. Check for missing shingles, loose flashing, and clogged gutters that could cause overflow.

Hack: Run a hose through your gutters and watch where the water goes. If it spills over the sides or pools near your foundation, it’s time for a clean-out or some downspout extensions.

2. Inspect Windows and Doors

Hot air sneaking in? Cool air leaking out? Check the weatherstripping and caulking—especially in older homes in neighborhoods like Sugar House or Liberty Wells.

Pro Tip: Hold a candle or lighter near the edges of your window. If the flame flickers, you’ve got air slipping through.

3. Service the A/C

If your A/C is wheezing or working overtime, don’t wait for it to quit on the hottest day of the year.

Quick list:

• Change the filter

• Clear debris from the outdoor unit

• Schedule a tune-up if it’s been more than a year

Bonus points if you’ve got a swamp cooler—mid-season maintenance matters for those too.

4. Check for Leaks

Take a few minutes to check under sinks, around toilets, and at outdoor spigots. Even small drips can add up—on your water bill and in damage.

Local Note: In older neighborhoods like Yalecrest or the Avenues, underground leaks near roots or sprinkler lines are surprisingly common. A sudden spike in your water bill? Worth a second look.

5. Clean the Dryer Vent

This one’s easy to forget, but important. A clogged dryer vent isn’t just inefficient—it’s a fire hazard.

Hack: If your clothes are taking longer to dry or your laundry room feels unusually warm, it’s probably time for a vent clean-out. You can DIY with a brush kit or call a pro if the vent runs through walls or the roof.

6. Tidy Up the Yard

Check for overgrown branches that could scrape siding, block walkways, or interfere with the A/C. Trim things back and clear debris from around windows and vents.

Salt Lake Tip: If you’ve got mature shade trees—especially in places like the Avenues or 9th & 9th—a mid-season pruning can prevent serious storm damage later.

7. Test Safety Systems

Check your smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers.

To-do:

• Change the batteries

• Press the test button

• Make sure extinguishers aren’t expired

Takes five minutes, tops—and it’s worth it.

8. Walk the Foundation

Take a slow walk around your home. Look for cracks, soft spots, or water pooling near the foundation. These signs might seem small, but they can signal bigger problems if left unchecked.

After a rain: Notice where the water goes. If it flows toward your house, consider regrading the soil or adding gravel to redirect it.

Final Thoughts

Mid-year maintenance isn’t about perfection—it’s about prevention. A few simple checks now can save you major money and stress down the road.

Not sure what to prioritize? Wondering what matters most for resale in your neighborhood? I’m always happy to talk strategy—no pressure, just real help.

You’ve got this.

Until next time,

Annie