Three Ways to Give Your Home’s Exterior a Summer Spruce-Up
Want to take advantage of the summer weather by tackling exterior home projects? Checking these DIY tasks off your list will help maintain your home’s exterior, while making your property look more inviting.
- Power Washing – A power washer can easily spray away the dirt, debris, mold and moss that have accumulated on your driveway, sidewalks, patios and decks over the past year. If you don’t own a power washer, many local hardware stores will rent the equipment. Make sure you read the directions beforehand to make sure you don’t damage your home (or yourself) in the process.
- Re-stain Your Deck or Fence – Not only will your deck or fence look like new, but you’ll also be protecting the wood from the elements once the weather changes. First, prepare the surface by removing debris and inspecting each board for damage. You can clean off buildup, including mold and algae, by using a deck and fence cleaner and a scrub brush. Or, apply a solution of ½ a cup of vinegar per gallon of water with a scrub brush and rinse after 15 minutes. When cleaning mold and algae, be sure to tie back plants to avoid damaging the landscape. Once the area is completely dry, use a roller, brush or sprayer to apply the stain or sealer. Early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid direct sunlight.
- Clean Your Windows and Screens – Clean your windows inside and out with glass cleaner and a lint-free or microfiber cloth, or rubber-edged squeegee. Remove your window screens and gently scrub both sides using a soft-bristled brush and warm, soapy water. Thoroughly rinse the screens with a garden hose and allow them to dry before putting them back in their windows.
These tasks take some effort, but are relatively easy to do yourself and inexpensive. So, enjoy the weather while giving your home’s exterior the lasting grooming it deserves.
