Between yard projects, outdoor gear, and extra traffic in and out of the house, your garage may already be putting in overtime this summer. A few simple maintenance efforts can help make sure it’s up to the task:

Test your garage door. A malfunctioning garage door is a huge safety hazard. Start by checking that the door opens without strange noises or jerky movements. Then test the automatic reverse feature by placing a small object in the door’s path. If the door doesn't reverse immediately upon contact, give your local garage door technician a call.

Declutter and store items safely. Summer often means bikes, lawn equipment, sports gear, and gardening tools end up scattered throughout the garage. Take time to organize your space by storing heavier items on lower shelves, hanging tools securely, and keeping walkways clear. This will reduce trip hazards and make it easier to find what you need. 

Look for signs of moisture and pests. Inspect the garage floor, walls, and ceiling for water stains, cracks, or damp areas that could indicate leaks. While you're at it, look for evidence of insects or rodents, especially around doors and windows. Sealing small gaps and addressing moisture problems early can help prevent more costly repairs later.

Check the weatherstripping. The rubber seal along the bottom of the garage door and the weatherstripping around the sides help keep out rain, dust, insects, and hot summer air. Replace cracked, brittle, or missing weatherstripping to improve energy efficiency and help protect the items stored inside your garage.

Our inspectors are always finding interesting things in the field. What’s going on in this picture?

Pictured here is an HVAC air handler inside a furnace closet where the condensate drain appears to be disconnected or improperly installed. This drain is designed to carry away moisture produced by the air conditioning system. If it isn't connected properly, water can collect inside the unit, potentially leading to water damage, rust, mold growth, and damage to nearby materials. An HVAC professional can provide the new homeowner with more guidance on repair or replacement.

After a severe storm, your first instinct might be to look for major damage. In reality, a lot of storm damage is subtle, and it can worsen over time if left unaddressed. After the next summer storm, plan to inspect these five areas:

1. The Roof & Gutters
As we mentioned above, your roof naturally takes the brunt of severe weather. See if you can safely spot any damage (we recommend using binoculars from the ground if you aren't comfortable using a ladder). Look for missing shingles, dimples, and clogged or disconnected gutters. 

2. Windows & Siding
Inspect all windows for cracked glass, damaged screens, or compromised seals. Check your home’s siding for dents, cracks, or missing panels. If you have stucco or brick, look for new cracks or chips where driving rain might have penetrated the exterior shell.

3.The Foundation & Perimeter
Walk around the base of your home to look for pooling water or signs of soil erosion. Heavy rain can also saturate the ground and put pressure on basement walls, so be sure check your basement or crawlspace for any new cracks or dampness.

4. Exterior HVAC Units
Check the outdoor unit for dented fins, loose electrical conduit, or structural shifting. Be sure the fan grille is clear of branches and leaves before turning the system back on.

5. Trees & Surrounding Property 
Larger trees can have structural damage that isn’t immediately noticeable. Look for cracked branches, uprooted soil around the base, or leaning trunks. Dead or damaged limbs need to be removed, as they can harm your roof and power lines during the next storm.