Home improvement projects to tackle this summer

HOME BASICS

By Angie Hicks

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With the sun shining and the days longer, summer is a great time to tackle those home improvements that you’ve been putting off. Whether you’re deep-cleaning, repairing or reinventing your space, each project is a step toward a more comfortable, efficient and beautiful home.

Here are five good summer home improvement projects to boost your home’s beauty, function and value. Pick one or two to start — and you might just find yourself inspired to take on more!

Restain the deck and fence

Summer is prime deck season, so now’s the time to get yours looking its best. Whether you’re hosting weekend cookouts or just enjoying your morning coffee outdoors, a freshly stained deck or fence makes all the difference. Staining not only revives faded wood but also helps protect it from sun, moisture and insects. It’s possible to do it yourself, but hiring a local deck pro can save time and ensure smooth and even coverage. Need repairs before staining? Fence fixes average around $600, while deck repair costs range from $270 to $7,500, depending on extent and materials. Your deck will also need to be resealed every few years, so ask your pro if it’s time for yours.

Make your lawn a showstopper

A green, lush lawn is a summer must-have, but you don’t have to stop at mowing. Think about upgrading your landscaping with flower beds, fresh mulch and even a new sprinkler system. Installing an irrigation system might seem like a splurge, but if you’re tired of dragging hoses around, it’s a time-saver that pays off. Want a bonus benefit? A professionally maintained lawn adds curb appeal — and could boost your home’s resale value down the line.

Install a ceiling fan

Keeping cool doesn’t have to mean cranking the AC 24/7. Ceiling fans offer an energy-efficient way to circulate air and make your space more comfortable. They’re especially handy for those in-between weather days when you don’t quite need the AC. Plus, by reversing the cycle to counter-clockwise, you draw warm air up and push cool air down. The typical cost to install a fan is about $250, plus the cost of the unit itself, which can range from $50 for a basic model to more than $1,000 for designer pieces. They also make a style statement — so if your ceiling’s looking bare, now’s the time to make a change.

Drain your water heater

It might not be glamorous, but draining your water heater should be part of your summer maintenance checklist. Over time, sediment builds up in the tank, reducing efficiency and shortening the lifespan of the unit. A simple flush can help your heater run better and supply more hot water — vital for post-beach showers and dishwashing after cookouts. This DIY task takes about 30 minutes, and most manufacturers recommend doing it annually. If you’re unsure how, a local plumber can help for a modest fee. Either way, your family will thank you for the extra hot water.

Repair cracked concrete

Uneven walkways and cracked patios aren’t just eyesores, they are also trip hazards. Summer’s dry weather makes it the best season to repair your concrete surfaces. For minor cracks, DIY kits are readily available and cost-effective. For larger damage, you’ll want to call a professional. Concrete repairs typically run from $800 to $2,800 depending on severity. Addressing issues now prevents worsening damage later, especially when freeze-thaw cycles return. Whether it’s your driveway, sidewalk or back patio, smooth concrete adds polish to your property and keeps your outdoor space safe and attractive.

Tweet your home care questions with #AskingAngi and we’ll try to answer them in a future column.