This summer, we’ve seen one heatwave after another. While it’s great for pool and beach days, it can be tough on your Baltimore investment properties. This might leave your tenants feeling uncomfortable and could even cause damage to your units. To help your properties stay cool and comfortable, we’ve put together some important steps to navigate through these hot summer months smoothly.
HVAC and Cooling Systems
Excessive heat can become unsafe and uncomfortable for your tenants during the summer months. Ensure their comfort and safety by providing effective cooling solutions such as central air conditioning, window-mounted AC units, fans, or heat pumps. Regularly check with your tenants to confirm they have adequate cooling and address any concerns they may have. Before summer begins, replace the air filters in existing AC systems to enhance performance and efficiency.
Tinting Films and Window Shades
In addition to HVAC and cooling systems, consider installing tinting films and window shades in your Baltimore investment properties for extra protection against summer heat. These measures help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and minimize UV exposure, which can damage interior features like hardwood floors over time. Furthermore, these upgrades can enhance the property’s energy efficiency, potentially reducing cooling costs.
Sealing External Leaks
When keeping your Baltimore investment properties cool all summer, retaining temperature is as crucial as using an air conditioner. Seal external leaks with new door sealants and caulk exterior cracks to prevent cool air from escaping. Addressing these leaks allows your air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature more efficiently throughout the summer. Additionally, this can reduce energy consumption and lower utility costs.
Check Insulation
Old insulation can trap heat unnecessarily, reducing the efficiency of your cooling methods. To ensure your Baltimore investment property remains comfortable for tenants during the summer, conduct regular inspections of the insulation in the attic, walls, and crawl spaces. Look for signs of wear, damage, or compression, as these indicate the need for replacement. Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient insulation materials improves temperature regulation and supports better environmental sustainability for your property. This proactive approach helps maintain tenant comfort and promotes long-term energy savings.
Siding and Foundation
Heat can cause the siding to expand or contract during the summer, especially in exposed areas of your Baltimore investment property’s facade. Dry soil can worsen these effects, potentially leading to foundation cracks. To prepare your property for summer heat, regularly check the siding and foundation for signs of wear or damage. Ensure your siding is modern and durable enough to handle weather changes and inspect the foundation for early signs of stress or cracks. These steps will help protect your investment property and maintain its structural integrity over time.
Ensure the Roof Isn’t Showing Signs of Dry Rot
The roof of your Baltimore investment property is constantly exposed to intense sunlight and its damaging UV rays during the summer months, which can cause shingles to dry out and deteriorate. This deterioration can lead to cracks and leaks, potentially necessitating a costly roof replacement if left unchecked. To prevent this, conduct regular inspections of your roof to promptly address any small issues before they escalate. By taking proactive maintenance measures, you can extend the lifespan of your roof and avoid significant repair expenses in the future.
Professional Property Management in Baltimore, MD
To keep your Baltimore investment property and tenants comfortable and satisfied this summer, connect with Premier Property Management. Our skilled team manages every aspect of property care, from tenant screening and rent collection to ongoing maintenance. Discover the benefits Premier can bring to your investment portfolio—call us today to get started!
