The Best Home Exterior Projects to Get Done This Summer

Summer doesn't last long in South Dakota. Between the short warm-weather window and the brutal freeze-thaw cycles that return every fall, the months between June and August represent the single best opportunity to upgrade your home's exterior — before the next round of wind, hail, and ice puts everything back to the test.

At Trumm Exteriors, we work with homeowners across Canton, Sioux Falls, Harrisburg, Tea, and the surrounding region every season. And if there's one thing we've learned in over two decades of exterior work, it's this: the projects you take care of in summer are the ones that save you the most money — and the most headaches — come October.

Here's a look at the top exterior projects worth tackling this summer, and why each one matters.

1. Roof Replacement or Inspection

If your roof took a beating from spring hail or high winds — and in South Dakota, it probably did — summer is the time to address it. Asphalt shingles and metal roofing are easiest to install in dry, warm conditions, and scheduling is far more flexible in the summer months than in the fall when every contractor in the region gets slammed with last-minute calls.

At Trumm Exteriors, we offer free roof inspections to help Canton and Sioux Falls homeowners understand exactly what they're working with. Our roofing options include durable asphalt shingles, long-lasting steel and metal roofing, and stone-coated steel — all installed with manufacturer-backed warranties. Whether you need a full replacement or targeted storm damage repairs, summer is the time to get it done right, not rushed.

Even if your roof looks fine from the street, it's worth having a professional set of eyes on it. Small issues — cracked flashing, missing granules, soft spots in the decking — can become major water intrusion problems by the time Midwest winters arrive.

2. New Deck Installation

There's no better time to build an outdoor living space than summer. And once it's done, you actually get to use it — immediately.

Trumm Exteriors builds custom decks across the Sioux Falls region using composite decking materials that are designed specifically for Midwest weather patterns. Unlike traditional wood, composite decking resists warping, splintering, mold, and rot. It holds up to snow, sun, and heavy rain without fading or cracking, and it requires no painting, staining, or sealing. Just rinse it off and enjoy it.

Our composite decks are built to last 25 years or more — two to three times the lifespan of standard wood decks — and are made from up to 99% recycled materials. Whether you're envisioning a simple platform deck off the back door or a multi-level retreat with built-in seating, we'll design and build something that fits your lifestyle, your backyard, and your budget.

If you've been putting off the deck project for "next summer," consider this your reminder: next summer is now.

3. Siding Replacement

South Dakota siding takes a beating. Wind-driven rain, hail, extreme temperature swings, and UV exposure all work against the exterior shell of your home year after year. If your siding is showing cracks, fading, warping, or gaps — or if you've been relying on aging wood or deteriorating fiber cement — this summer is the right time to make a change.

Trumm Exteriors installs three primary siding systems: vinyl siding, LP SmartSide engineered wood siding, and steel siding. Each option offers a distinct combination of aesthetics, durability, and price point. LP SmartSide, in particular, has become a popular choice for homeowners in our area who want the look of real wood with significantly better performance against moisture and impact.

New siding does more than improve curb appeal. It tightens the building envelope, reduces air infiltration, and can noticeably improve your home's energy efficiency — which matters when you're running the air conditioning through a South Dakota summer and the heat through a South Dakota winter.

4. Window Replacement

Old, drafty windows aren't just a winter problem. In the summer, inefficient windows let heat in, drive up cooling costs, and make certain rooms uncomfortable no matter how hard your HVAC system works. Replacing them now — before the heat really sets in or before next fall arrives — is a smart move.

Trumm Exteriors installs energy-efficient windows in wood, fiberglass, and vinyl, whether you need a single replacement or a whole-home upgrade. New windows improve comfort, reduce noise, cut energy bills, and add real value to your home. We work with trusted manufacturers and handle everything from the initial consultation to the final installation, so the process is straightforward and stress-free.

If your home still has original windows or windows that are more than 15–20 years old, a summer replacement project can pay dividends for decades to come.

5. Gutter Installation or Replacement

Gutters aren't glamorous, but they're one of the most important systems on your home. A properly functioning gutter system directs water away from your foundation, your siding, and your landscaping — preventing thousands of dollars in potential damage from water intrusion and erosion.

Summer is an ideal time for gutter installation because the work goes faster in dry conditions, and you can verify proper drainage before fall's heavy leaf drop and freeze-thaw cycles begin. Trumm Exteriors installs seamless aluminum gutters backed by a 25-year warranty. Seamless gutters have far fewer joints than sectional gutters, which means fewer potential leak points and a cleaner finished appearance.

If your current gutters are pulling away from the fascia, have visible rust or holes, or you're seeing water pooling near your foundation after heavy rain, it's time for an upgrade.

Why Summer Is the Right Time to Act

In the Canton and Sioux Falls area, summer schedules fill up fast. Contractors are busy from May through October, and the homeowners who call early in the season get better scheduling flexibility, more material options, and more time to plan the project properly.

Trumm Exteriors has served the South Dakota and surrounding region for over 20 years, earning an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and certifications from industry leaders including Owens Corning, CertainTeed, LP SmartSide, Pella, and Trex. Our team approaches every project with honest recommendations — we only suggest what we'd put on our own homes.

Whether you're ready to start one project or tackle several this season, we're ready to help. Contact Trumm Exteriors at (605) 730-6196 to schedule your free estimate. Our office is located at 305 W 5th St., Canton, SD 57013, and we're available Monday through Friday, 8AM–5PM.

Summer's here. Let's make it count.