The world is full of possibilities and it all starts at home. You can help make your home — your little corner of the world — a haven that's comfortable and functional.
1. Assess your home’s exterior
It’s a great time to walk around your property and look for any damage caused by winter or recent extreme weather conditions. Download our free Home Exterior Assessment Checklist and make notes of any issues you find. Snap a few photos and bring your list to your neighborhood hardware store — they can recommend the right tools and products for each job. And if you need a hand, don’t hesitate to reach out — our team can help you check anything off your list.
2. Filter the sun, increase the fun
Enhance your outdoor space with a pergola and create a defined, shady space for many more enjoyable hours of outdoor lounging, dining and entertaining. Typically made from cedar or painted to match the house, a pergola can increase your property value. Enhance garden appeal by planting climbing plants to create a green canopy. Whether you’ve got a vision or need some inspiration, we’re here to help — let’s collaborate!
3. Beat the heat
Summer sun can be intense! A retractable awning that is custom made for your outdoor living space can lower the temperature by 20 degrees during the hottest afternoons and disappear when you’re ready for more sun. Awnings are available in a wide variety of fabrics. They close automatically any time high winds are detected, and can withstand gale force winds up to 85 mph.
Contact us for a free estimate
4. Bring your fence back to life
No matter how strong your fence is, it’s vulnerable to damage. Fenceposts rot and fences deteriorate from freeze/thaw cycles, sun, rain and heavy winds. Gates also take lots of abuse (opening, closing, opening). Whether a simple or complex fix, we can repair all types of fences, including wood, chain link, wrought iron, aluminum, composite, steel and vinyl.
Request a fence/gate repair estimate
5. Let the breeze in, keep the bugs out
Now’s a great time for screen cleaning and repair! You can drop them off or purchase DIY screen repair kits and more at your favorite local hardware store. For help rescreening your windows or your porch, or if you’d like to turn your screened- in porch into a three-season enclosure, reach out to us!
6. Seal in comfort
Boost your home’s energy efficiency, comfort and security with high-quality storm doors. Whether full-view or partial-view, storm doors add an extra layer of protection, keeping cool air in during the summer and cold air out in the winter. That added barrier helps lower energy bills and maintain a more consistent indoor temperature. Storm doors also increase security by adding a second, lockable entry point to your home. For warmer days, choose a model with a retractable screen to enjoy fresh air and natural ventilation without letting pests in. Available in full-glass, three-quarter and half-glass styles to match your home’s look. Contact us to upgrade your entry
7. Freshen up your deck
A well-maintained and functional deck is a great way to enjoy the outside for as long as possible into the fall. Our team can repair, rebuild and refinish your deck so you can get back to spending time with family and entertaining friends. Instead of just repairing and restaining, many homeowners ask us to install composite decking, which offers significant long-term benefits, including reduced maintenance, extended lifespan, and resistance to rot and insect damage. We will rejuvenate your deck and add years of enjoyment and value to your home. Request a deck repair or refresh estimate
8. Fix cracks fast before they grow
In Chicago, harsh freeze/thaw cycles can take a serious toll on masonry. Left unaddressed, small issues can quickly grow into major (and costly) repairs. That’s why we always recommend staying on top of maintenance — timely repairs now can help you avoid a more costly full rebuild later.
Our experienced masonry team specializes in restoring and repairing all types of brick, stone, mortar and tuckpointing — including steel lintel and I-beam replacement. We take a thorough approach: first, we assess the issue, identify the root cause, and then recommend a solution that helps protect your home for years to come. Schedule a masonry repair estimate
9. Don’t stand for standing water!
Standing water on your property is a potential breeding ground for virus-spreading mosquitos. They lay their eggs in any stagnant water (think: clogged gutters) and go from egg to biting adult in a matter of days. Standing water can also damage your home’s foundation, become smelly, breed nasty bacteria, kill grass and plants, and create safety hazards. Contact us for help eliminating this dangerous (and gross) problem on your property.
10. Keep dirt and sand out
Summer means outdoor fun — beaches, hiking, gardening and sports. A mudroom helps contain sand, dirt and grass before they get tracked into your home. It’s the place your family can drop wet swimsuits and towels, keeping messes contained. Store all the flip-flops, hats, sunscreen, beach towels and sunglasses so they’re always ready to grab and go, and have a designated spot for sports gear, bikes, helmets and picnic supplies — saving time and reducing clutter. Let’s design the ideal mudroom for your family!
June in Chicago is the perfect time to tackle repairs and upgrades. Let us help you get it done right so you can relax and enjoy this summer.