At RiteScreen, we think of Memorial Day weekend as more than just a long holiday – it’s the unofficial kickoff to summer. The days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising, and it’s finally time to open your windows, fire up the grill, and head outside.

Before diving into backyard barbecues and sunny staycations, it’s a good idea to give your home and outdoor spaces a seasonal tune-up. This Memorial Day home prep checklist will help you seamlessly transition into warmer weather. This year, spend more time enjoying summer and less time fixing or tidying the home.

Prepare Your Yard & Outdoor Spaces for Summer

Start with the exterior. Pull the patio furniture out of storage and give everything a good once-over. Mow the lawn, trim overgrown shrubs, and weed flower beds. A fresh layer of mulch can help retain moisture while giving your landscaping a clean, finished look. Sweep patios and walkways, and consider power washing decks, siding, or outdoor furniture to wash away built-up pollen and grime.

Don’t forget to set up those cozy extras: wipe down tables and chairs, bring out cushions and umbrellas, roll out outdoor rugs, and hang string lights to create an inviting space for relaxing or entertaining.

Now’s also a great time to organize your summer gear. Pool toys, lawn games, gardening tools, and camping chairs should be stored in an accessible (and dry) spot. You can even create an “outdoor essentials basket” near the door with sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, and hats to make heading outside a breeze.

Get the Grill Ready for Summer Cookouts

It’s not summer without a sizzling barbecue! Before your first cookout of the season (hello, Memorial Day burgers and dogs!), give your grill some attention. Soak and clean the grates, check gas lines and burners if you use a gas model, and clear out old ash or debris for charcoal setups.

Restock grilling essentials like propane, charcoal, and your favorite seasonings. If it’s time, replace worn-out tools — a fresh spatula or pair of tongs can make grilling easier. Have an outdoor kitchen? Give it a deep clean and replenish supplies so you are ready to entertain at a moment’s notice.

Inspect and Clean Window & Door Screens

Your windows and patio doors have weathered the winter — now it’s time to make sure they’re ready for summer. Debris, pollen, or even small tears often go unnoticed until you open the windows for that first warm breeze.

Start by checking all windows and exterior doors for cracks, gaps, or worn-out weatherstripping. Remove screens and inspect them closely: look for rips, sagging mesh, or loose frames. If anything looks worse for wear, RiteScreen is here to help.

With our Guided Sale and Rite-In-5 guarantee, you can get perfectly fitting, custom window and patio door screens fast — with mesh options designed for your lifestyle. Want to block 99% of allergens? Try AllergyGuard®. Have pets? PetScreen® is 7x stronger than standard mesh, so you can enjoy airflow without the claw marks.

If your screens are still in good shape, give them a seasonal cleaning. Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust, then gently wash with a mild soap and water solution. Rinse and air-dry completely before reinstalling. Clean screens look better, last longer, and keep air flowing freely all summer.

Check Cooling and Safety Systems Around the House

With rising temps, your home’s cooling system becomes essential. Replace HVAC air filters to improve air quality and energy efficiency. If it’s been a while, schedule a professional maintenance check to ensure everything’s running smoothly.

While you’re at it, give ceiling fans a quick dusting — clean blades make a difference in air circulation.

This is also a great time to test your home’s safety systems:

• Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Ensure fire extinguishers are accessible and within their expiration dates.
• Check home security systems and smart devices for proper function, connectivity, and battery life.

Doing this now means fewer surprises — and more peace of mind — all season long.

Enjoy Your Long Summer Weekends

Once your home is summer-ready, all that’s left is to enjoy it. Fire up the grill, relax in your backyard, and make memories with the people you care about most.

Memorial Day weekend is also a moment to pause and reflect — to honor those who served and celebrate the freedom to enjoy the season ahead. However you choose to spend it, we hope it’s the start of a safe, sunny, and screen-perfect summer.

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