August Maintenance - Midwest
Still hot, but start thinking ahead. Back-to-school prep for your house.
August is the last gasp of summer. Still hot, but you can feel fall coming. This is the time to start thinking ahead while finishing up summer maintenance.
This Month’s Focus
1. Schedule Your Furnace Tune-Up
Do it now before the rush. HVAC companies get slammed in October.
- Schedule professional inspection
- Stock up on filters for heating season
- Consider a service contract if you don’t have one
Difficulty: 🔧 | Time: 5 minutes to schedule
Need a pro? Find an HVAC contractor →
2. Inspect Your Roof
Before fall rains and winter snow, give it a look.
- Check from ground level with binoculars
- Look for missing, curling, or damaged shingles
- Check flashing around chimneys and vents
- Clean debris from valleys
Difficulty: 🔧🔧 | Time: 30 minutes
See damage? Diagnose roof issues →
3. Power Wash Exterior
Before temperatures drop, clean:
- Siding
- Driveway and walkways
- Patio/deck (if you didn’t in spring)
- Outdoor furniture
Difficulty: 🔧🔧 | Time: 2-4 hours
4. Check Dryer Vent
Fire hazard if clogged. Check the exterior vent flap and clear any lint buildup.
Difficulty: 🔧🔧 | Time: 30-45 minutes
5. Test Garage Door Safety Features
- Auto-reverse when hitting an object
- Photo-eye sensors working
- Manual release operates smoothly
Difficulty: 🔧 | Time: 10 minutes
6. Inspect Weather Stripping
Check doors and windows. Replace worn stripping before heating season.
Difficulty: 🔧🔧 | Time: 1-2 hours
7. Check Smoke and CO Detectors
Test all units. Replace batteries. Replace any detector over 10 years old.
Difficulty: 🔧 | Time: 20 minutes
The Bottom Line
August is transition time. You’re wrapping up summer while prepping for fall and winter. Schedule that furnace service now—you’ll thank yourself in November.