Summer on the Jersey Shore is something special. The beach, the bay, time with family — there’s nothing quite like it. But before you can enjoy your summer home, it needs to be opened up properly after sitting closed all winter.
Here’s a simple checklist we use when preparing homes for the summer season:
Turn On the Water Carefully
If your water was shut off for winter, turn it back on slowly. Check every faucet, toilet, and connection for leaks. Pipes can crack over winter without you knowing — better to find out now than when water’s pouring through your ceiling.
Test the Air Conditioning
Turn on your AC before a hot day hits. Make sure it’s cooling properly and listen for any strange noises. If the filter hasn’t been changed in a while, now’s the time. A dirty filter makes your AC work harder and costs you more money.
Check for Pests
Mice, ants, and other critters love empty homes. Look for droppings, nests, or damage. Check the attic, basement, garage, and any storage areas. If you see signs of pests, deal with them early before they become a bigger problem.
Open Windows and Air Things Out
A closed-up house gets musty. Open the windows, let fresh air flow through, and check for any mold or mildew — especially in bathrooms and closets. The salt air humidity can cause mold to grow in places you don’t expect.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Press the test button on every detector. Replace batteries even if they seem fine — they’ve been sitting all winter. This takes two minutes and could save lives.
Inspect Your Deck and Outdoor Areas
Walk your deck and look for loose boards, popped nails, or soft spots that could mean rot. Check railings to make sure they’re sturdy. Salt air and winter weather are tough on wood — better to fix problems now than have someone get hurt.
Check Outdoor Furniture
Bring out your outdoor furniture and give it a good cleaning. Check for rust, loose joints, or torn cushions. A quick hose-down or wipe makes everything look fresh for the season.
Need Help Opening Up?
If you’d rather have someone else handle all this, that’s exactly what we do. Give us a call at (732) 575-5533 and we’ll get your home summer-ready so you can just show up and start relaxing.