Summer home maintenance checklist

Bare wood soaks up water and rots faster. Most coatings need dry weather to cure, so follow the product label.

Openings let in rain, insects and animals looking for a nesting spot.

High pressure can gouge wood, force water behind siding and damage mortar. Hire a pro if you're unsure.

Roof work is safest and easiest in dry weather, and it should be done by an insured roofer.

Natural Resources Canada recommends changing or cleaning filters every three months, since clogged filters reduce airflow.

Turn it off and call a technician rather than letting a small problem turn into a breakdown.

Natural Resources Canada notes that poor airflow to or from the unit can shorten the equipment's life.

Damp basements encourage mould and musty odours.

Removing moisture at the source helps prevent mould.

Small outdoor leaks waste water and can soak the soil next to the foundation.

Signs of a leak are worth a call to a plumber before the tank fails.

Regular service helps prevent backups and costly damage to the drain field.

Private well owners are responsible for their own water quality, and a lab test is the only way to know it's safe.

Disturbing a nest can lead to many stings. Leave large or hard-to-reach nests to a pro.

Carpenter ants prefer damp or damaged wood, so they can point to a moisture problem.

Health Canada recommends testing smoke alarms every month and replacing any that are more than 10 years old.

Use the barbecue outdoors only, well away from windows, doors and anything that can burn.

Lint buildup restricts airflow and is a fire hazard.

Heating contractors and chimney sweeps get busy once the weather turns cold.