Photo of Chumasande Matiwane

Home maintenance jobs to prepare your house for warmer weather

As spring temperatures rise across South Africa, now is a good time to give your home some attention before the hotter months arrive. Tackling small maintenance jobs early can help prevent costly repairs, improve comfort and ensure outdoor spaces are ready for summer.

Also see: How to maintain a fresh and sparkling pool in warm weather

From checking the roof to preparing your pool and garden, here are some practical jobs to put on your home-maintenance list. 

Inspect your roof and gutters

Check the roof for cracked or broken tiles, loose screws and areas where water may have pooled. Gutters should also be cleared of leaves, dirt and other debris so when summer rain hits, water can drain properly.  

Get your pool ready

If you have a swimming pool, prepare it before temperatures climb and swimming becomes a regular activity. 

Clean the pool, check the pump and filtration system, empty baskets and inspect equipment for damage or leaks. It is also important to test the water and balance the appropriate chemicals. 

Clean outdoor entertainment areas 

Before summer gatherings begin, clean patios, decks, balconies and braai areas. Inspect outdoor furniture for damage and check that lighting, plugs and other electrical equipment are safe to use. 

Wooden decks may also need cleaning, sealing or maintenance depending on their condition and the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

Prepare your garden 

Spring is a useful time to get garden beds, lawns and outdoor areas ready for warmer conditions. Remove dead growth, clear weeds, refresh tired soil and check your irrigation system. Mulching can also help retain moisture and keep plant roots cooler during hot weather.  

Also see: 5 Ways to comfort baby during loadshedding

Time to get those curtains washed 

Heavy curtains can collect dust and may make rooms feel stuffier. Wash or clean your curtains or consider getting lighter window coverings for rooms that receive significant sunlight.  

Refresh bedrooms 

Warmer nights can make bedrooms uncomfortable, so prepare them before temperatures climb. Wash bedding, mattress protectors and pillow covers, rotate or air the mattress if appropriate and clean underneath the bed. 

You can also switch from heavy winter bedding to lighter options as temperatures rise. 

Clean your mattress 

Mattresses can accumulate dust, dead skin and other particles over time. Vacuum the mattress using an appropriate attachment or allow it to air out properly rather than soaking it with excessive moisture. 

You don’t need to complete all these jobs in one day. Create a simple checklist and work through the rooms one at a time. 

Also see: Complete spring bucket list: Things to do before summer

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