Gutter maintenance: In many parts of the country, the summer is a time of heavy rains. The summer is a great time to ensure your gutters are in top shape before fall leaves arrive.

House repainting: After a winter beating, your house may be worse for wear. The summer is a good time to take on an exterior painting project when days are sunny and longer.

Lawn maintenance: Those who live in colder climates may be surprised after the winter thaw to find brown grass or empty patches. Summer is a good time to seed your lawn and replant any landscape that might not have survived winter.

Special projects: So many homeowners wait until summer to take on the home improvement projects that have been on their wish lists all year.

Looking for ideas? Why not incorporate a fire pit or stone patio into your outdoor environment?

Tree maintenance: Following the winter hibernation period, all of nature's creatures are back. Low-hanging branches may be an attractive means of access to your attic or roof for a curious animal.

Insect control: You might want to protect your backyard barbecues and picnics from unwanted visitors.

Driveway repaving: Just as there are potholes created in the street from severe weather damage, your driveway may need a fresh coat to ensure a smooth ride home this summer.

Check water connections: From outdoor faucets to your garden hose, now is a good time to make sure everything is in working order.

Purge: Now is a great time to clear out that basement, shed or attic and get rid of all those unwanted and unused items.

Check windows and doors: During winter months, there is a need to keep cold weather out and in summer months, a desire is to keep lower temperatures in. Summer is a good time to consider upgrading or replacing doors and windows.