CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — Summer is almost here, and with it comes heat, rainstorms, bugs and exploding plant growth. Make sure your home, from the basement to the backyard, is ready to help you enjoy the season.
Visionary Homes is Utah’s local home builder. They’re connected with the communities they serve, and they’re committed to building premium homes in neighborhoods that are all about lifestyle.
“We build houses to last,” said Kenya Lund, Northern Utah division marketing manager for Visionary Homes. “A few simple maintenance tasks will keep your home in peak condition for years to come.”
Preparing for the elements
Service your AC and reverse the fans
Have a qualified heating and cooling contractor clean and service the outside unit of the AC system. Clean coils operate more efficiently, and an annual service call will keep the system working at peak performance levels.
If your fans spin counterclockwise, it’ll push the air straight down and keep your home nice and cool. To do this, turn off the fan, wait for it to stop, find the direction switch, and check that your fans are spinning counterclockwise.
Vacuum, dust and change your air filter
With tree and grass season in full swing, pollen is dusting every household surface. However, a thorough cleaning can alleviate symptoms for allergy sufferers.
Vacuum all your carpets and wipe down ledges and ceiling fans. Changing your AC filter will also help minimize allergens.
Clean the gutters
Clean all debris and leaves out of the downspouts and gutters to prepare for summer rainstorms. Re-attach any gutters that are sagging.
Consider installing gutter screens or protectors to help keep debris out. Also, examine your roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during the winter.
Recaulk the windows and doors
Inspect and, if necessary, caulk around your home’s windows and doors. Sealing these areas helps keep out heat, humidity and bugs in the summer and cold drafts in the winter. Plus, you’ll save money on your utility bills all year round.
Check your power equipment
Look over your gas- and battery-powered lawn equipment to make sure it’s ready for summer use. The grassy buildup in your lawnmower can invite rust and clog the discharge chute, leaving clumps on your lawn.
Disconnect the spark plug and remove the blade before dislodging debris with a putty knife and wire brush. Finish by hosing away any remaining clippings.
Creating an enjoyable summer environment
Prepare your barbecue for grilling
For charcoal grills, empty the grill racks and wipe them down. Use hot water, dish soap and a scrub brush or sponge to clean both the outside and inside of the grill, then let it dry before the next use.
For gas grills, close the lid, turn the heat up high, and let the grill cook for about half an hour. Then, let it cool. Use a grill brush to sweep the inside, and wipe down the outside with a sponge and cleaner. Then clean out all of the drip trays.
If you don’t have a grill, you can use this time to clean and arrange your outdoor chairs and furniture instead.
Wash the windows
Cleaning away all the winter and spring buildup makes it easier to enjoy Southern Utah’s beautiful sunny days from the comfort of your home! For high windows, consider hiring professional window cleaners to do the job for you.
Repair and reseal woodwork
Wooden rails, fences and trellises are prone to decay and rot if left alone. Split or broken pieces can be glued back together if the wood is dry. Support the pieces with tape as the glue sets. Replace planks that are too damaged for repair.
Use a power washer, and then use oil to protect the clean wood. Decking oil is the best for fence treatment because it keeps the wood supple and water-resistant. Exterior wood oil helps preserve your wood and can prolong the life of your fence.
Check outside faucets for freeze damage
Give your outside faucets a test run by placing your finger over the opening. If the flow of water stops, or if you see water leaking somewhere else, you may need to call a professional to inspect your pipes.
If you have sprinklers, check to make sure they’re all functional and none of them are watering the sidewalk.
Keep the yard in check
Removing dandelions and weeds from your yard before they go to seed will help maintain a flawless grass lawn. Chemical options are available if you’d rather not pull them up by hand. You may also want to add a layer of gravel on top of the soil to suppress future weed growth.
Ultimately, houses are constructed merely from brick and mortar – it’s the memories shared within their walls that make them worth living in. With a commitment to premium craftsmanship and thoughtful design, Visionary Homes builds communities that Utahns are proud to call home.
“One of our core values is craftsmanship,” Lund said. “We want to give people the quality that they’re looking for. We keep you in mind when we build.”
Offering a wide range of styles and sizes, Visionary Homes is currently building and selling in four unique Southern Utah developments. Enjoy resort-style living at Desert Color, where you can choose from condos, townhomes or single-family homes.
Get closer to nature in Divario, nestled among miles of trails near Green Valley. Family-friendly amenities abound in Warner Gateway just off the Southern Parkway, while the Azalea Townhomes in Ivins provide gorgeous red rock views at more accessible price points.
To learn more about Visionary Homes and ongoing developments, visit VisionaryHomes.com or call 435-222-2441.
Written by ALEXA MORGAN for St. George News.
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Resources
- Visionary Homes | Address: 1506 S. Silicon Way, Suite 2D, St. George | Telephone: 435-222-2441 | Website.
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