
The arrival of May signals the start of warmer weather. People are putting away their winter coats and looking forward to milder temperatures. Days now see highs in the 60s, making it an ideal time to get your house ready for the change in seasons. Our real estate agents suggest you carry out these key safety checks now.
Maine Weather: What to Expect
Augusta's May sees daytime temperatures between 55-70°F, with nighttime lows sometimes dropping to the 40s. Summer brings average highs in the 70s and 80s, with July as our hottest month. Maine summers are nice, but we do face occasional heat waves and thunderstorms. Getting ready now means you'll have more time to enjoy those great summer days coming up!
Outdoor Safety Checks
- Check Your Roof and Gutters
Winter snow and ice can damage your roof. Look for shingles that are missing or broken, and make sure gutters don't have any blockages. When Maine's summer storms hit, working gutters play a key role in moving water away from your house's foundation.
- Make Sure Your Deck and Porch Are Safe
Augusta homes often have beautiful outdoor spaces to live in. After snow has weighed them down and they've gone through freeze-thaw cycles for months, look at all wooden structures to see if they have loose boards or shaky railings.
- Cut Back Trees and Shrubs
Maine has lush green plants that look great, but can be dangerous. Take off dead branches that might fall during summer storms, and cut back any growth that touches the outside of your home to stop pests from getting in and to avoid problems with moisture.
How to Make Your Indoor Space Safe
- Check If Your Air Conditioning Works
Even if your Augusta home lacks central air, now's the time to clean or install window units. Maine's humidity can make even mild temperatures feel unbearable, so make sure your cooling system is set to go before the first heat wave strikes in June or July.
- Check Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Put in new batteries and test all safety devices. Although we're moving past heating season, gas appliances used throughout the year can still generate carbon monoxide.
Water Systems and Moisture Control
- Look Over Your Basement and Crawlspaces
When snow melts and spring rain comes, look for water getting in. Fix any wet spots right away—Augusta's summer humidity can make existing issues worse and cause mold to grow.
- Make Sure Your Sump Pump Works
If you have a sump pump at home, check that it's working well before the heavy May rains hit. Many homes for sale in Augusta have this key protection, and keeping it in good shape is vital to avoid expensive water damage.
- Examine Outdoor Faucets and Watering Systems
Check all outdoor water systems to see if the cold has damaged them and fix any leaks. Here's a local tip: hold off on setting up watering systems until after Memorial Day, since we might still get some frost in early May.
If you take the time to do these key safety checks now, your home will be all set for the change in seasons, and you can kick back and enjoy Maine's gorgeous summer. If you're thinking about buying or selling in our area, get in touch with us to find out how our real estate agents can help you find the perfect Augusta home for sale that fits all your needs throughout the year.