The days are getting longer and warmer; spring is approaching. Now is the time to start thinking about outdoor spring cleaning tasks to improve the exterior of your home before spending more time outside. Here are a few jobs you can do now to prepare for the season.
Tidy the Flower Beds and Containers
Clean the flower beds and porch containers from last year. Remove dead plants, weeds, and debris from flower beds and planters. After clearing the debris, use a garden fork or tiller to turn the soil and aerate it. Aerating will break up compacted areas from the winter’s snow and ice. Once the soil is turned, add fresh compost or potting mix to give your plants a healthy start this spring.
Outdoor Spring Tasks: Cleaning the Gutters
Dirty gutters can cause various issues, from water damage to pest infestations. Regularly cleaning them is an important part of home maintenance that you don’t want to overlook. Gutter-cleaning is relatively easy but requires safety precautions and basic tools such as a ladder, work gloves, and a trowel or scoop for removing debris.
Inspect joints or seams in the gutter system for rust or decay and repair damage before continuing your spring cleaning efforts. Once you’ve removed debris from the gutters, flush them with water from the garden hose to ensure water flows properly through the channels and downspouts.
Check Decks and Fences
Inspect decks, patio, and fencing for damage from harsh winter weather. Make sure boards are securely in place, and look for signs of rot or insect infestation in wood surfaces and supports. As part of your outdoor spring cleaning tasks, pressure-wash, sand, and refinish the deck if necessary. If you notice problems, repair them before temperatures heat up so you can enjoy your outdoor space all season long without worry.
Outdoor Spring Cleaning: Pressure Wash Exterior Surfaces
Pressure-washing surfaces like siding, driveways, walkways, and patios will brighten those areas. Pressure washing removes dirt, mildew, and debris accumulated over winter, so everything looks new as summer arrives. Follow the manufacturer’s directions when setting the pressure to avoid damaging delicate surfaces like vinyl siding and stonework while cleaning them.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up inside your home – there are plenty of tasks outside you’ll need to take care of. Prepare the flower beds and make sure the deck is in good condition. Cleaning the exterior of the house will boost curb appeal and ensure your outdoor living spaces look great for summer.
Certinspectors provides home inspections to homebuyers and sellers in the Hudson Valley area of New York. Contact us to schedule our services.