It is easy to neglect our front and back yards during the cold winter months, and Spring will come, there are several things we can do to bring life back into our outdoor spaces.
Here are some cleaning tips to prepare outdoor living spaces for spring.
1. Clear the web
Fighting the outer web may seem like an endless battle, and it’s likely that you’re behind the busy holiday season. Return to it this spring and get rid of the cobwebs that have accumulated in your exterior cornices, cracks and crevices. No special tools are required here - this is a very simple task that requires only a rag with a long post or even a broom.
2. Scrub Windows, inside and out
This is something that is so often ignored, but can make a huge difference! The exteriors of your windows are badly beaten, even in a sunny climate where the elements are soft. However, you will be surprised how much dirt, mud and water can accumulate on your windows.
When it comes to window cleaning products, keep them simple. A non-toxic glass cleaner and an old newspaper can work wonders! If you have never cleaned the glass with a newspaper, you just need to trust us. The newspaper helps to clean the glass cleaner with crystal clear and empty stripes - we promise.
3. Cleaning the gutters of winter garbage
In areas with low annual rainfall, homeowners rarely have to worry about their rain gutters being reinforced. However, it is a good idea to remove any leaves, sticks and other debris that were created in the winter to avoid any problems or damage to the roof.
4. Organize your garage
Cleaning the garage is highly regarded in most “worst case” homeowners. But including your garage in your spring cleaning will pay dividends in the summer (and give you extra parking space too).
The first step to organizing your garage is to process it in chunks. Divide your garage into quadrants and occupy it with a section. Create separate piles for items that you sell, donate or throw into the basket. Be realistic and honest with yourself about the items that you really need, and about those that you will be happy to part with!
5. Check outdoor lighting
Scan your open living area to identify any shimmering bulbs or lights that need to be replaced. Check the lighting along the main doorways and exterior tracks.
Spring is a great time to upgrade your outdoor lighting, so you are ready for those warm summer nights that entertain outdoors!
6. Give outdoor furniture a wash
If you have outdoor seating with pillows, cushions and similar accessories, then time to give them a scrub. Many outdoor collections allow you to remove the covers so that you can throw them in the washing machine and dryer.
Remove pillows and pillowcases and wrap frames for furniture. If you have a washer, this is the best option for an explosion of built-in dirt and grime. If not, the hose with a decent nozzle will work fine. Dust from your outdoor seating, and you will be tuned to spring and summer outdoor activities!
7. Show your fence.
Wooden wings are exposed to elements all year round, and sometimes they need some kind of TLC to look great again. Identify any loose boards or wood rot and consider using a new paint or perhaps weather sealant. If several years have passed since you were treating your wooden fence, we recommend taking the time to do it in the spring.
8. Exterior Paint Touch Ups
Touching open areas where the paint has broken off or fades is a quick and easy task - to revive the look of your home. Take a walk around the house and make a list of everything that a fresh coat of paint can use, including fencing, window sills, shutters, mailboxes, doors, etc.
