Summer heat hits homes hard in the Berkshires. The temperature swings, afternoon thunderstorms, and humidity create a perfect storm for maintenance issues. Properties throughout Berkshire County face challenges that can impact both comfort and long-term value if left unaddressed.
Smart homeowners tackle these problems head-on during the warmer months when repairs are easier and contractors are available. Your house is likely your biggest investment, and a few hours of summer maintenance can save thousands in repairs while keeping your property value strong.
The work you do now prevents costly surprises later and keeps your home comfortable when temperatures soar.
Your Roof Needs Attention Now
Spring storms hit Berkshire County hard this year. I’ve seen more roof damage in the past two months than in the previous two years combined. Climb up there (safely) or hire someone to check for loose shingles, damaged flashing, and clogged gutters.
Gutters full of debris cause water to back up under shingles. That water finds its way into your walls, creating mold problems and structural damage. Clean them now, before the summer storms start. Check that they’re properly attached to your house—those ice dams we had last winter probably loosened a few brackets.
Power washing your siding reveals more than you might expect. The grime hides cracks in caulk, areas where paint has failed, and spots where moisture is getting behind your siding. Address these issues now, when the weather cooperates. Fresh paint doesn’t just look good—it prevents expensive rot and siding replacement.
Cool Your House Without Breaking the Bank
Your air conditioner is working overtime right now. When was the last time you changed the filter? A dirty filter makes your system work harder, uses more electricity, and doesn’t cool your house effectively. Check it monthly during summer.
Walk around your house on a hot afternoon. Feel around windows and doors for air leaks. You’re paying to cool that air—don’t let it escape through gaps you can seal with a $3 tube of caulk. Pay special attention to where cable and phone lines enter your house. These spots often have gaps big enough for your finger.
Your attic might be 140 degrees right now. That heat radiates down into your living space, making your air conditioner work harder. Check that your soffit vents aren’t blocked by insulation or wasp nests. Ridge vents should be clear of debris. Good attic ventilation can drop those temperatures by 30 degrees.
Water Issues Start Small
Your sprinkler system probably needs adjustment. Walk around your property early morning when the system runs. Look for broken heads shooting water straight up, clogged nozzles creating weird spray patterns, and areas where water runs off instead of soaking in.
Adjust your timer as the weather gets hotter and drier. Early morning watering (between 4-6 AM) reduces evaporation and gives grass time to dry before evening, which prevents fungal diseases common in our humid summers.
Check every outdoor faucet and hose connection. A small drip wastes hundreds of gallons over a summer and can cause foundation problems if water pools near your house. Replace worn washers and consider upgrading old faucets to frost-proof models before winter.
Basements get humid fast during Berkshire summers. Run a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50%. High humidity creates mold problems and makes your house feel warmer, causing you to run the air conditioning more. Check foundation walls for new cracks or white deposits that indicate water problems.
Your Yard Is Part of Your Investment
The mature trees that make Berkshire properties so attractive need summer care. Dead branches become missiles during thunderstorms. Remove them now, before they damage your roof or a neighbor’s car.
Water your trees deeply once a week rather than daily light watering. This encourages deeper root growth and helps trees survive drought periods. New plantings need more frequent watering until their roots establish.
Raise your mower height during hot weather. Taller grass develops deeper roots and stays green longer during dry spells. Cutting grass too short stresses it and creates brown patches that take months to recover.
Know When to Call for Help
Some maintenance tasks are perfect weekend projects. Others require professional expertise. Don’t mess with electrical issues, structural problems, or anything involving your roof if you’re not comfortable with heights.
The money you spend on professional maintenance pays for itself when you sell your home. Buyers notice well-maintained properties and are willing to pay more for homes that won’t require immediate repairs.
We see this difference every day at Cohen + White Associates. Properties with consistent maintenance history sell faster and for better prices than similar homes that show signs of neglect. Summer maintenance isn’t exciting, but it protects your investment and keeps your family comfortable when the heat hits.
