Summer Home Maintenance Tips from Your Local Home Inspector

Organ Mountain Inspections
May 28
3 min read

As the summer sun heats up the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico homeowners face unique challenges when it comes to maintaining their properties. The intense sun, high temperatures, monsoon rains, and dust can take a toll on homes if not properly addressed. As trusted home inspectors in New Mexico, we’ve seen firsthand how seasonal upkeep can make a big difference in preserving your home’s condition and value.

Here are the top summer home maintenance tips every New Mexico homeowner should know:

1. Inspect and Service Your Cooling System

New Mexico’s dry heat can push your air conditioning system to its limits. Before the hottest days hit:

Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up to ensure your system is running efficiently.
Replace air filters monthly during heavy use.
Clean around outdoor units, removing weeds, leaves, and debris that can restrict airflow.

Pro tip: Consider having your ductwork inspected for leaks that could be wasting energy and increasing your electric bill.

2. Check Roof and Flashing for Monsoon Readiness

Monsoon season (typically July through September) brings sudden, intense downpours. These rains can expose weaknesses in your roofing and flashing.

Inspect for loose or damaged shingles, especially if your roof is older or was installed with asphalt shingles.
Check flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to prevent water intrusion.
Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re not clogged with leaves or desert dust.

Flat or low-slope roofs common in New Mexico adobe-style homes are especially vulnerable; ensure proper drainage systems are in place.

3. Seal Cracks and Gaps

The dry air and temperature fluctuations can cause caulking and sealants around windows and doors to crack.

Inspect weatherstripping and seals to keep cool air in and hot air (and pests) out.
Caulk around windows, doors, and stucco cracks to improve energy efficiency and protect from water damage.

4. Protect Your Home from Pests

With rising temperatures, pests like scorpions, ants, and spiders become more active.

Seal entry points, including small gaps around doors, windows, and utility penetrations.
Trim vegetation away from the house to eliminate pathways for insects.
Inspect for termite activity, especially near the foundation and wood structures—subterranean termites are a known issue in parts of New Mexico.

5. Prepare for Wildfire Season

If you live in a rural or forest-adjacent area (like parts of Santa Fe, Ruidoso, or the East Mountains), summer means heightened wildfire risk.

Create a defensible space by clearing brush and dead vegetation at least 30 feet from your house.
Clean leaves from roofs and gutters to reduce fire fuel.
Store firewood and propane tanks away from structures.

6. Maintain Your Stucco Exterior

Stucco is a popular and durable choice in New Mexico, but it needs care:

Look for cracks or discoloration, which can indicate water intrusion or foundation movement.
Patch small cracks with stucco repair caulk to prevent bigger issues.
Consider a professional inspection if you notice widespread cracking or peeling paint on synthetic stucco (EIFS). We offer annual maintenance inspections if you would like us to take a look and give our professional opinion!

7. Check Irrigation Systems

Whether you have xeriscaping or traditional landscaping, efficient water use is key:

Test drip irrigation systems for leaks or blockages.
Water early in the morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
Adjust timers to comply with local water restrictions.

Final Thoughts

New Mexico’s climate can be hard on homes, but with proactive summer maintenance, you can protect your investment and stay cool all season long. If you're unsure about the condition of your roof, cooling system, or exterior, consider scheduling a seasonal home maintenance inspection. It’s a small cost for peace of mind—and could prevent much larger repair bills down the road.

Need a summer home check-up? Call or text us at 575-650-5520 today to schedule your professional inspection. Serving southern New Mexico , and surrounding areas with thorough, honest assessments you can trust.

@organmountaininspections