After the festive season is over and the new year is progressing well, many feel a sense of excitement for what the future warmer weather could bring. The time to celebrate outdoors, to attend events in the sunshine, and to relax in our gardens is almost here. Until then, we get to see Spring gently bloom, which provides a sense of comfort and relaxation like almost nothing else.
Yet it’s also true that peaceful summer living is not necessarily guaranteed. Hot temperatures, intense humidity (depending on where you live), and household preparations are all worth considering ahead of time, and planning for.
But what are those home preparations that count most of all? In this post, we’ll discuss that and more:
Pest Control
The autumn period is when most pests will try to make themselves known in your household - colder temperatures outside and a snug structure are obviously in the interest of anything that walks on four legs or more. But the truth is that pests also find it quite comfortable to nest in the relaxing brickwork or shelter of your home during the summer season. Preparing for that with adequate pest control measures (sometimes this just means protecting crawlspaces or repairing siding) can help you prevent a wider infestation later on down the line. In the long run, pest control can help subvert property damage, and it is cheaper for preventative measures to be implemented now than to fumigate a property later on down the line.
HVAC Installations
It’s worthwhile to ensure your air conditioning system is in top-notch condition before you need to test it. You should clean or replace filters, check for leaks, and schedule professional maintenance if needed - a HVAC service company can provide all of that and more. You can also back up your cooling possibilities by implementing energy-efficient ceiling fans, as these provide circulation of that cool air around the building.
You can also block out the heat by investing in blackout curtains or blinds for sun-exposed windows - this is a very helpful consideration during those hot afternoon naps, especially if you have a baby to look after. Additionally, seal any gaps or cracks in doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping, as strange as it sounds, letting hot air in from outside can be a bad idea.
Prepare Those Shaded Outdoor Areas
There’s nothing quite like a relaxing exterior area to rest in, and it’s more than possible to enjoy yours too with a little planning. You can start by placing outdoor umbrellas, canopies, or gazebos, to provide relief from the sun's intensity. Perhaps this year you hope to read more often, and so design a perfect reading corner with a beautiful overhead shelter and sun lounger to enjoy your time in the garden.
Consider incorporating natural elements like trees or tall plants that can offer both shade and a refreshing ambiance too. It will help you gain the privacy you need. You can also invest in further outdoor furniture with built-in shades, like a parasol in your garden bench or table, allowing for outdoor meals with your family. Being able to spend time outside without feeling uncomfortable in the exterior lighting can be an essential element of feeling well and looking good.
Add Fresh Greenery
There’s a lovely vibrance that comes from adding greenery to your household, and preparing or planning out how your arrangements will be made is a great deal of fun. Besides adding that beautiful new aesthetic appeal, indoor plants can greatly improve air quality and a sense of tranquility in line with that. In other words, your home just feels so much more serene with a nice display of flowers or green plants, especially indoors. With that and your French doors open, it’s as if you invited the outside in.
Choose plants that are easy to maintain in indoor conditions and require minimal maintenance, such as snake plants, peace lilies, or even cacti depending on your tastes. Position them well in well-lit areas to benefit from natural sunlight, or use frames like wall garden hangers to help you nurture their presence. Not only will they look gorgeous, but they help define the character of your home, even helping it look new and refreshed year on year. After the winter period where little grows, bountifully welcoming the summer season with plants can be a wonderful use of your time.
With this advice, you’re certain to make those home preparations for better and more peaceful summer living. Enjoy!