There’s nothing quite like that first breath of fresh spring air. It’s that sweet spot where the heavy coats go back into the cedar chest, and the birds start getting a bit more vocal. And you can finally crack a window without shivering.
But as any homeowner knows, that gentle spring breeze is essentially a countdown clock. Summer is coming, and with it comes the intense sun and the humidity. To truly kick back with a cold lemonade in hand, you need to do a little bit of legwork first.
AccuWeather predicts that spring will remain chilly for a while in 2026. That makes it the perfect time for checking off home improvement tasks that are easier to complete now than in peak summer.
Below, we’ll walk you through the most worthwhile home improvement projects to finish before summer arrives.
1 Service Your Air Conditioning System
Few things are as terrifying as a silent AC vent when it’s 95 degrees outside.
When the humidity is thick enough to cut with a knife, your air conditioning system is your best friend. But many homeowners treat their air conditioning units with an “out of sight, out of mind” mentality until they fail. Don’t make the same mistake.
Get your air conditioner serviced before summer arrives. Once the first heatwave hits, Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) companies are bombarded with calls. You could end up waiting days for a technician while your house heats up.
Scheduling a professional tune-up now can help you beat the rush and often snag early bird pricing. Fin Mechanical adds that routine HVAC servicing optimizes system performance and serves as a critical safeguard against expensive mechanical failures.
Service calls go beyond a basic walkthrough. An air conditioning contractor cleans dirt and debris from the condenser coils and checks refrigerant levels to ensure they aren’t leaking. They also inspect electrical components and clear the condensate drain to prevent water damage.
2 Refresh Walls with a Lighter Paint Color
Winter has a way of making interiors feel a bit heavy. Homeowners often lean into dark woods, cozy blankets, and moody lighting to combat the gray skies outside.
But when summer arrives, you want your home to feel airy, expansive, and filled with light. One of the most cost-effective ways to cool down the visual temperature of your home is with a fresh coat of paint.
Painting in the spring is ideal because the humidity is generally lower than in mid-July.
Paint dries more evenly and cures better when the air isn’t heavy with moisture. Plus, you can crack the windows to let the fresh air circulate without letting in a swarm of summer bugs or a blast of heat.
Warmer, richer neutrals, especially rust, greens, and browns, are in vogue this summer. They are favored for creating spaces that feel inviting, grounded, and luxurious without being overly bold.
Homeowners are also gravitating towards jewel-tone palettes, like deep blues and greens. Go for them if you want to bring depth and dimension to your interiors.
3 Brighten Your Outdoors With Landscape Lighting
As the days get longer, the living room tends to migrate from the sofa to the patio. But just because the daylight fades doesn’t mean your outdoor space has to go dark. The right lighting keeps the party going and your footing secure.
Homeowners are investing in their outdoor spaces like never before. Market Research Future reports that the global outdoor lighting market is expected to go from $31.85 billion in 2025 to over $63 billion by 2035.
Outdoor lighting does more than just light the way. Greenscapes Outdoor notes that it sets the mood with a gentle radiance that makes your home look stunning after sunset.
Install low-profile fixtures that line your walkways and guide guests safely to your door if you want to create a welcoming runway effect.
Use spotlights to accentuate the textures of your home’s exterior or the height of your trees. Stringing bistro lights over your seating area adds a soft, nostalgic radiance perfect for evening entertaining.
If you’re unsure where to start, an outdoor living specialist can help you layer lighting for both beauty and function. They can strategically place lights along walkways to prevent trips and falls.
They help select fixtures that withstand the elements, and ensure your outdoor space feels just as comfortable and stylish at night as it does during the day.
Enjoy Your Summer!
There you go! These are three big projects you must tackle before the temperature starts rising.
Tackling these home improvements now means you can reclaim your summer. Instead of a season spent on repairs, you’ll enjoy a finished home that’s ready for entertaining, travel, and true relaxation.
You don’t have to do everything on this list. Pick what fits your space, budget, and energy level. Even a few small upgrades can make a big difference in how your home feels when summer arrives.
