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There are many reasons to look forward to summer, whether it’s the end of another school year, summer Fridays at the office, or, of course, beautiful vacations. For determined homeowners or those looking to buy a home to put some work into, it can only mean one thing- finally tackling home improvement projects you’ve promised yourself you’d do all winter. However, you want to get the job done right the first time to avoid revisiting it next summer, right? That may mean swallowing your pride and calling in for some help. But, how do you know when it’s come to that? I’ve broken down some summer projects that you can approach yourself and included projects where it’s smarter and safer to call in the big guns.

In this article, I’ll go through summer projects you can tackle on your own and others may require some help for your safety. You’ll learn about:

• Safe pool cleaning
• Landscaping that brings out the green-eyed monster in all neighbors
• Avoiding all creepy-crawlies
• Maintaining your deck
• Repairing gutters safely

Pool cleaning for safe swimming

How to get crystal clear water in no time

This chore is all yours. You probably already own mesh skimmers and brushes to help get the job done, but in order to properly clean and treat your pool for safe swimming, there’s just one more thing you’ll need to do: shock the water with chemicals. All you’ll need to do is take a sample of pool water to your local pool supply store so a clerk can recommend the needed chemicals to have a summer-ready pool. Be prepared to share your pool dimensions so they can calculate the ratio and provide details on how and when to add these chemicals to your pool. After the shocking is finished, your pool will be ready for kids’ birthday parties, water polo tournaments, or just a relaxing day on a float. Also the recent developments in the contracting and resinous coating industry have led to new and exciting trends in the options and styles for pool deck.

Landscaping that requires help

When to call in the big guns and when to do it yourself

A little landscaping can go a long way when it comes to making your home beautiful. For small-scale tasks like weeding, mulching beds, trimming shrubs, etc, you can handle those on your own. The only time you may need some help is when you decide to chop that large oak in the front yard. The last thing you want to do is whip out that chainsaw with no experience whatsoever. Calling in an experienced tree-care company or arborist will keep you and your home safe. When hiring help, always make sure they have proper insurance, like general liability and workman’s compensation. This will protect you in the event of an accident.

Creepy-crawlies no one wants to mess with

Keep bugs and small animals away from your home throughout the hot season

Pests are an unwanted reality that unfortunately comes with the summer season. When it comes to mosquito bites and chewed through veggies, it’s time to call in the pros. Seasonal contracts are typically recommended rather than one-time treatments because the longer-term service will re-treat as necessary. Typical services include pest control for rodents, beetles, cockroaches, spiders, ants, termites, and any insect that bites or stings. No one wants those in or around the house, especially if you have children. Experts will be able to effectively and safely manage this job. Visit Waynes Pest Control for more info.

Finally, your favorite summer entertainment spot

Beautify your deck to enjoy before the winter months roll around

One of my favorite things about summer is enjoying time on my deck, whether it’s sipping coffee in the morning, spending a warm evening under the starry sky, or entertaining guests by our tiki lights. However, thanks to Ohio’s bitter winters, you may have some repairs to take care of first. The decision to DIY it or hire a pro entirely depends on the project. Repairs such as securing or replacing loose wood and staining are all manageable projects to do on your own. Pressure washing is also a great way to rid of dirt that’s been caked on. Just be sure not to get too close because you could strip or chip the surface of the wood! Unless you’re a carpenter yourself, you may want to phone a friend if your deck is in need of structural repair or needs entirely replaced.

Gutter repairs and cleanings

Is this a DIY project or one for the experts?

Many people would debate whether or not this is a DIY project or a matter for the pros. Either way, this needs to be fixed. A build up of leaves, wastewater or other natural annoyances can weigh down your roof or cause it to rust and need replaced altogether. Repair and patch holes, seal leaky spots and secure parts that have pulled away the second you know your roof is in need. And, if you’re asking for my advice, I’d go with the pro. I’m sure cleaning the gutters can be easy to do yourself, but this type of project can result in an injury from falling. Better safe than sorry.

Keeping up on small projects can have a big outcome

Some look at summer projects and assume they have the tools and skills to complete them on their own. Small tasks such as cleaning your pool, maintaining landscaping, and washing your deck are certain projects you can take on with ease. However, leave it to the pros to remove trees or branches, get rid of pests, replacing the entire deck, or patching the gutter. Many of these summer projects will only take an afternoon and will guarantee a fun-filled summer with friends and family! Take care of your home and know your limits before don’t allowing an injury ruin your summer!