Now that summer is finally here, homeowners can put the finishing touches on their homes and yards with DIY projects. The problem some people face when they’re trying to start those efforts is that they can seem like colossal tasks to undertake. However, they don’t have to be.

One of the first things homeowners might want to do at this time is have a look at what may have changed about their properties during the winter and even spring, according to U.S. News and World Report Real Estate. A careful inspection will determine whether there any cracks in a home’s siding, dead spots on the lawn or clogged gutters. If so, these obviously provide a good jumping-off point for where homeowners can start their work, and perhaps save some of the more aspirational “nice-to-have” changes for later in the summer.

Jobs that can help right away
For homeowners who are worried about the cost of electricity for keeping a home nice and cool all summer long, it might be wise to think about DIY projects that increase efficiency. For instance, resealing doors and windows or adding new insulation for older homes is something that can end up being worth the investment of both time and money. Some homeowners might be surprised to learn how much cooled air – and, in colder months, heated air – seeps out of their homes through even the smallest cracks. Some home improvement experts estimate that there are enough bad seals in a home to be equivalent to leaving a window open 24/7 all year long.

Furthermore, homeowners may also want to use the early months of summer to do more physically intensive work before the sun gets too hot. Building outdoor features like decks or playgrounds, planting trees or repairing fences as soon as possible will pay off all summer long.

Other DIY ways to save
In addition to outdoor jobs, there are some basic indoor tasks homeowners can undertake to keep costs down, such as installing ceiling fans that can spin in both directions, according to Laser Level Hub. These simple devices can help to raise or lower a room’s temperature by as much as 10 degrees, and use far less energy than air conditioners.

Finally, for those who want to maintain happy, healthy lawns and gardens, it can be wise to invest in anti-pest efforts. Using pesticides and deterrents – both chemical and natural – can help protect the plants owners pour so much care into fostering, saving them time, money and headaches. However, when putting these into use, it’s wise to follow all instructions as carefully as possible.

In general, the more research any owner can do about how to properly execute all the DIY jobs on their to-do list this summer, the easier and more efficiently they’ll be able to complete that work. At this time of year, it can also be a good idea to start a group in which friends or neighbors all help each other tackle these jobs, providing support and camaraderie, and getting work done more quickly.

Brought to you by HMS Home Warranty.  HMS is an industry leader with over 30 years of creating success for clients and providing peace of mind for customers.  To learn more click www.hmsnational.com.