North Carolina’s summers are spectacular as the area bursts to life with vibrant greenery and sun-soaked afternoons. For residents of A&G Residential homes, lush backyards will soon leap into action, handling cookouts, gatherings, and relaxing evenings under the stars. As beautiful as the summer season is, it also brings a unique set of weather challenges that new homeowners should prepare for. From scorching temperatures and high humidity to pop-up thunderstorms and hurricane threats, now is the time to ready your home to handle all possibilities.

No matter which of A&G Residential’s new construction neighborhoods you’ve chosen, taking proactive steps to prepare your home for summer weather is essential. Protecting your investment will keep your home looking and functioning at its best throughout the hottest months of the year, providing comfort and shelter against the elements.

Ten Steps to Poor Weather Prep:

1. Inspect and Service Your HVAC System

One of the most critical systems in your home during the summer is your HVAC. Central North Carolina summers typically offer temperatures soaring into the 90s and humidity levels often push that “feels like” temperature even higher. If your air conditioning system isn’t performing efficiently, not only will your comfort suffer, but your energy bills will skyrocket.

• Replace Air Filters: Dirty air filters restrict airflow and reduce cooling efficiency. Replace them monthly, especially during peak usage periods. You may even consider replacing them more often during North Carolina’s famed yellow-pollen season.
• Consider a Smart Thermostat: Devices like the Nest or Ecobee can optimize cooling schedules, saving you money while keeping your home comfortable.

• Plan an Annual Professional Inspection: Each year, before peak summer heat hits, have an HVAC technician perform a full inspection to check refrigerant levels, clean coils, inspect ductwork for leaks, and ensure your thermostat is functioning perfectly.

2. Seal and Insulate for Energy Efficiency

A&G Residential homes are built with a focus on energy efficiency, but small gaps and under-insulated areas can still exist.

• Window Treatments: Heavy curtains, blinds, or UV-reflective window films can dramatically reduce heat sneaking through windows.

• Check Windows and Doors: Inspect seals and weather stripping on all entry points. If you feel any drafts or notice daylight peeking through gaps, replace or reinforce them.
• Attic Insulation: Heat rises, and a poorly insulated attic can turn your upper floors into a sauna. Now is a great time to spot-check your attic’s insulation for any breaches.

3. Prepare for Thunderstorms and Power Outages

Central North Carolina is no stranger to dramatic summer thunderstorms. While these storms often bring much-needed relief from the heat, they can also cause power outages and damage.

• Secure Outdoor Items: Patio furniture, umbrellas, and garden decor should be anchored or tucked away when storms are in the forecast to prevent them from blowing away or becoming dangerous projectiles.

• Invest in a Whole-Home Surge Protector: Lightning strikes can wreak havoc on your home’s electronics and appliances. A surge protector installed at your electrical panel adds a terrific layer of protection.
• Backup Generator: While extended power outages are not common, a backup generator can be a lifesaver should your area experience one. This investment will keep your home running smoothly even when the grid goes down.

4. Ensure Proper Drainage and Gutter Maintenance

Summer storms can dump large amounts of rain in short bursts, leading to potential flooding and water damage if your drainage systems aren’t up to par.

• Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep into your home’s foundation or roofline. Clear them regularly and ensure downspouts direct water at least five feet away from your home’s foundation.

• Inspect Grading: Plan an annual walk around your property to ensure that the ground continues to slope away from your home. Shifts in grading can lead to standing water near your foundation.
• Install French Drains if Needed: As your new home settles, you may discover areas prone to flooding. French drains or dry rock beds can be attractive solutions to keep water away from your home.

5. Get Your Roof Summer-Ready

Your roof is your first line of defense against summer storms and relentless sunshine.

• Consider Reflective Roofing Materials: If you’re in the planning stages of a new home build, consider adding reflective or “cool” roofing materials. While these are an upgrade, the return offers reduced heat absorption and lower indoor temperatures, which will pay off long term.
• Schedule a Roof Inspection: Look for missing shingles, damaged flashing, and clogged roof vents. Even in newer homes, it’s wise to catch small issues before they become costly repairs.

6. Prepare Your Outdoor Living Spaces

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor living from morning to evening!

• Inspect and Clean Decks and Patios: Pressure wash and reseal wooden decks to prevent weather damage. This will also keep them looking like new for years to come.

• Add Cooling Elements: Outdoor ceiling fans or misters can make patios and porches more enjoyable during the hottest afternoons.
• Outdoor Kitchens and Grills: Make sure grills are cleaned and inspected for safety. If you have an outdoor kitchen, check gas lines and appliances to ensure they’re ready for both entertaining and for use should you lose power.

7. Protect Your Landscaping

Each of A&G Residential’s new construction homes includes basic landscaping. Keeping that outdoor space beautiful and functional during the summer is a priority for homeowners.

• Shade Structures: Pergolas, retractable awnings, or even well-placed trees can provide shade that makes patios and decks usable even on the hottest days.
• Drought-Resistant Landscaping: Consider incorporating native plants like Black-eyed Susans, Butterfly Weed, and Yaupon Holly, which can thrive with minimal watering.

• Irrigation System Check: From sprinklers to drip irrigation systems, start the summer by making sure they are functioning properly. Early morning watering reduces evaporation and helps keep plants healthy.

8. Pest Control

Warm, humid summers bring out a variety of unwanted pests, from mosquitoes and ants to more troublesome invaders like termites.

• Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed quickly in standing water. Regularly check bird baths, planters, and gutters for water accumulation.
• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home’s foundation, windows, and doors for any small openings that pests could use to sneak inside.
• Hire Professional Pest Control: Consider seasonal treatments to keep common pests at bay, particularly if you live near wooded areas or bodies of water.

9. Fire Safety Precautions

Dry spells in the summer can increase fire risk, especially in rural or heavily wooded areas.

• Create a Defensible Space: Create a safety zone that extends 30 feet from your home and clear it of brush, dead branches, and flammable materials.
• Store Flammable Materials Safely: Gasoline, propane, and other flammable substances should be stored in appropriate containers and away from the home.
• Inspect Outdoor Fire Features: If you have a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, ensure they are in good working condition and used safely, especially during dry spells.
• Fire Extinguishers: Always keep a fire extinguisher within reach when using your grill, fire pit, or outdoor kitchen.

10. Review Your Homeowners Insurance Coverage

Summer is a great time to revisit your homeowner’s insurance policy, especially in an area that occasionally faces threats from tropical storms and hurricanes.

• Ensure Adequate Coverage for Wind and Flood Damage: Standard policies may not cover all forms of water damage. Consider adding supplemental flood insurance if appropriate.
• Document Valuables: In case of a claim, having an up-to-date inventory of your belongings with photos and receipts can simplify a difficult process. Block some time off on your calendar to document your valuables and store the details outside of your home.

Preparing your new A&G Residential home for summer weather is about more than just staying cool—it’s about protecting your investment and making the most of the gorgeous season. With thoughtful preparation and regular maintenance, you can enjoy everything central North Carolina offers without worrying about damage from the next heatwave or storm.

If you have a summer relocation in mind, reach out to the team at A&G Residential today to find the perfect floor plan in one of our central North Carolina communities.