Top Summer Yard & House Maintenance Tips for Lake Tahoe & Truckee!

Welcome to summer in Lake Tahoe and Truckee! As the days grow warmer and longer, it's time to get ready for the vibrant season ahead. This comprehensive guide will walk you through essential tasks and expert tips to keep your property in top shape all summer long.

Part 1: Preparing Your Yard

  1. Clearing Winter Debris

    • Start by clearing away any lingering winter debris, such as fallen branches leaves, and pine needles to prepare your yard for summer activities.

  2. Lawn Care

    • Aeration and Seeding: Loosen compacted soil and seed any bare patches in your lawn to encourage healthy growth.

    • Fertilization: Feed your lawn with a balanced fertilizer to promote lush greenery and resilience against summer heat.

  3. Garden Maintenance

    • Soil Preparation: Test and amend soil pH levels to create optimal conditions for summer plantings.

    • Planting Guide: Explore a variety of summer flowers and vegetables suited to our climate and soil conditions.

    • Pruning and Trimming: Shape plants and remove dead growth to promote blooming and maintain tidy garden beds

  4. Mulching

    • Discover the benefits of mulching and apply a layer around your plants to conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.

  5. Pest Control

    • Identify common summer pests and implement natural prevention methods to protect your garden without harsh chemicals.

Part 2: House Maintenance

  1. Exterior Care

    • Roof Inspection: Check for any signs of wear or damage from winter weather and schedule repairs as needed.

    • Gutter Cleaning: Clear gutters of debris to prevent clogging and ensure proper water drainage.

    • Siding and Paint: Touch up exterior paint and address any cracks or peeling to protect your home's exterior.

  2. Deck and Patio

    • Cleaning and Sealing: Clean outdoor surfaces and reseal wooden decks to protect against sun damage and moisture.

    • Furniture Maintenance: Clean and inspect outdoor furniture for wear and tear, repairing or replacing as necessary.

  3. HVAC System

    • Filter Replacement: Replace HVAC filters to improve air quality and ensure optimal system performance during the summer months.

    • System Tune-Up: Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up to keep your system running efficiently and reliably.

  4. Windows and Doors

    • Cleaning Tips: Clean windows and doors to let in natural light and fresh air, enhancing your home's ambiance.

    • Draft Prevention: Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors to keep cool air in and hot air out, improving energy efficiency.

  5. Indoor Summer Cleaning

    • Deep Cleaning: Give your home a thorough cleaning, paying extra attention to areas prone to summer dust and dirt.

    • Organization and Decluttering: Declutter living spaces and organize belongings for a more spacious and comfortable environment.

Part 3: Enhancing Curb Appeal

  1. Landscaping Ideas

    • Add pops of summer color with flowering plants, trimmed bushes, and well-defined garden borders.

  2. Lighting Solutions

    • Illuminate pathways and outdoor living areas with decorative lighting for added safety and ambiance during summer evenings.

  3. Painting Touch-Ups

    • Refresh your home's exterior with a fresh coat of paint on doors, shutters, and trim for a welcoming summer look.

Part 4: Defensible Space

Creating a defensible space around your home is crucial for protecting your property from wildfires. Here is a quick outline of defensible space requirements and resources:

Defensible Space Requirements:

  1. Zone 1 (0-30 feet from structures):

    • Remove all dead plants, grass, and weeds.

    • Trim trees so branches are at least 10 feet away from other trees.

    • Remove dead or dry leaves and pine needles from your yard, roof, and gutters.

  2. Zone 2 (30-100 feet from structures):

    • Cut or mow annual grass down to a maximum height of 4 inches.

    • Create horizontal spacing between shrubs and trees.

    • Create vertical spacing between grass, shrubs, and trees.

  3. General Maintenance:

    • Maintain your defensible space regularly by removing debris, trimming vegetation, and using fire-resistant landscaping.

For more detailed information, please refer to the local ordinances:

Green Waste Disposal:

Proper disposal of green waste is essential for maintaining defensible space. Here are some resources for green waste disposal:


By following this guide, you'll be well-prepared to tackle summer yard and house maintenance tasks in Lake Tahoe and Truckee. Download our printable checklist for easy reference, and feel free to reach out for personalized advice or assistance. Happy summer maintenance!

Tahoe Real Estate Advisors