Welcome to late spring in Stanton, KY, where wildflowers bloom, Red River Gorge beckons, and home maintenance waits for no one. Before you trade your toolbox for a hammock, let’s talk about the top home maintenance tasks you should tackle between May and June. These simple chores can save you money, keep your home comfortable, and help you enjoy the best of Stanton’s summer.
Roof and Gutter Rescue: Because Water Finds a Way
Spring storms and Kentucky winds can leave your roof and gutters looking like they hosted a squirrel family reunion. Start by checking your roof for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or signs of moss and algae. Binoculars work if you’re not a fan of ladders. If you spot trouble, call a pro before leaks become your new indoor water feature.
Don’t forget the gutters. Clean out leaves, twigs, and whatever else the wind blew in. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, foundation issues, and mosquito breeding grounds. Make sure downspouts direct water away from your home’s base. A little effort now means you won’t be bailing out your basement later.
Windows, Doors, and Siding: The Stanton Shine
After a long winter, your windows and doors deserve a good cleaning. Wash away the grime, and while you’re at it, check for cracks, holes, or worn-out caulking. Replace weather stripping where needed to keep cool air in and bugs out. This is also the perfect time to power-wash siding and touch up any peeling paint.
Pro tip: Clean window screens and check for holes. Stanton’s summer breezes are great, but nobody wants a house full of gnats.
Decks, Patios, and Fences: Outdoor Living, Upgraded
Your deck and patio are about to become the main stage for barbecues and lemonade sipping. Check for loose boards, rusty nails, or splintering wood. A quick power wash and a fresh coat of sealant will keep your outdoor spaces looking sharp and ready for summer fun.
Fences need love, too. Tighten loose boards, replace broken pickets, and treat wood to prevent rot. A sturdy fence keeps pets safe and nosy neighbors guessing.
Lawn and Garden: Curb Appeal, Stanton Style
A lush lawn and tidy garden beds make your home stand out. Mow regularly, trim hedges, and pull weeds before they take over. Prune trees and shrubs to keep them healthy and away from your house and power lines. If you’re feeling ambitious, plant some native Kentucky flowers for extra color and pollinator appeal.
Irrigation check: Turn on your sprinkler system and look for leaks or broken heads. Adjust sprinklers to water the grass, not the sidewalk. Efficient watering means a greener lawn and lower water bills.
Foundation and Drainage: Keep Your Home High and Dry
Walk around your home and look for cracks in the foundation or signs of water pooling. Seal small cracks with epoxy or caulk. For bigger issues, call a professional. Make sure the ground slopes away from your house so rainwater doesn’t sneak into your basement.
Test your sump pump if you have one. It’s better to find out now if it’s not working than during a summer thunderstorm.
Pest Patrol: Keep the Critters Outside
May and June are prime times for termites, ants, and mosquitoes. Check for signs of termites like mud tubes or hollow wood. If you see anything suspicious, call pest control before they turn your home into a buffet. Eliminate standing water in buckets, birdbaths, and clogged drains to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation to keep bugs from sneaking in. A little caulk goes a long way.
HVAC and Air Quality: Stay Cool, Stanton
Before the Kentucky heat sets in, replace your air conditioner filter and schedule a professional tune-up. Clean air vents and ducts to keep dust and allergens down. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and keeps your home comfortable all summer long.
Ceiling fans deserve attention, too. Dust the blades and make sure they’re spinning counterclockwise to push cool air down.
Plumbing and Water Heater: Stop Leaks Before They Start
Check under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater for leaks or corrosion. Fix small drips now to avoid big headaches later. Flush your water heater to remove sediment and improve efficiency.
Outdoor faucets and hoses should be checked for cracks or leaks. Replace washers or hoses as needed to avoid surprise puddles.
Safety First: Alarms, Extinguishers, and Security
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed. Check your fire extinguisher’s pressure gauge and move it to an easy-to-reach spot. Trim bushes near windows and doors to eliminate hiding spots and consider adding motion sensor lights for extra security.
Garage and Storage: Declutter for Summer
Sweep out your garage, organize tools, and donate anything you no longer need. Clean and store winter gear, and make sure summer essentials like bikes and lawn chairs are easy to grab.
Your Stanton, KY Home: Ready for Summer
Tackling these tasks between May and June keeps your Stanton home safe, efficient, and ready for whatever summer brings. For more tips and a printable checklist, check out the Home Maintenance Checklist for Every Season and the Spring Home Maintenance Checklist.
A little maintenance goes a long way—so grab your gloves, turn up your favorite playlist, and show your home some Stanton pride.
Sources: bhg.com, universalproperty.com
Header Image Source: Jessica Hearn on Unsplash
