With summer approaching, homeowners are advised to use the month of May to prepare their homes and yards for the season, tackling outdoor maintenance tasks that are easier and more effective before the heat and humidity set in.

One important chore is cleaning and servicing the grill. If it was not properly cleaned before winter storage, the grill’s interior may be coated with grease and grime. Experts recommend removing the grates and soaking them in warm, soapy water using a dishwashing detergent with alkaline properties to break down grease. The grill’s tubing, where the gas flows to create flames, should be scrubbed carefully with a wire brush, brushing across rather than side-to-side to avoid clogging the holes. After cleaning the interior and the grates thoroughly and rinsing, homeowners should replace the drip pan and wipe down the exterior to ensure the grill is ready for use.

Another priority is washing and inspecting the exterior of the house. Toward the end of May, pollen counts typically decline, creating an ideal window to clean off accumulated dirt and allergens. Homeowners can use a garden hose with a nozzle and a soft-bristle brush with an extended handle for this task, avoiding pressure washers that may damage paint. Any exposed wood or paint chips should be attended to after surfaces have dried to avoid further weather damage. Additionally, trimming shrubbery near the house is advised to prevent moisture buildup and potential mildew or rot.

Window washing should also be timed for after the pollen has subsided and on rain-free days. Exterior window cleaning can be performed with warm, soapy water and non-abrasive scrubbers. Using a squeegee rather than cloths or paper towels helps prevent streaking. Mineral deposits or stubborn spots may require superfine bronze wool, while ladder safety or professional services are recommended for hard-to-reach windows.

Homeowners are urged to clean and repair window screens before opening windows for ventilation. Screens can be washed using warm, soapy water and a soft brush or sponge, then rinsed and dried before reinstallation. Small holes can be fixed using heat-activated patch materials, while larger tears may necessitate sewing on patches or replacing the entire screen through a hardware store or specialist.

Installing an outdoor clothesline offers an energy-efficient laundry drying option. Options vary from foldaway and retractable lines for limited spaces or condominiums to umbrella-style or traditional T-post clotheslines for larger yards. Cotton lines are preferred over synthetic alternatives for their durability and environmental benefits.

Spring is also a key time to clean gutters, especially for those living near evergreens that drop needles year-round or oak trees with late leaf drop. Clearing gutters and assessing downspout drainage during rainfall can prevent water pooling near foundations. Diverting water at least 10 feet away using underground piping to dry wells or directing flow into rain gardens can mitigate potential water damage.

An outdoor cleanup should include removing dead branches, debris, and old wood to reduce fire hazards and discourage rodent activity. Homeowners should check with local waste management services for proper disposal methods of yard waste and construction materials.

Finally, preparing dehumidifiers before the humid months can improve indoor air quality. Annual cleaning of coils and routine washing of filters and water collection buckets help maintain optimal operation. Those in need of a new unit may consult Energy Star resources for guidance on efficient models.

By addressing these maintenance tasks now, homeowners can create a safer, more comfortable, and inviting environment for outdoor enjoyment throughout the summer.