Spring Cleaning Your Yard and Home’s Exterior

We often talk about spring cleaning inside the home, but it is equally important to take care of your yard as spring approaches. 

Begin by pruning dead and damaged branches that have been damaged by the cold and wind. You may want to use a handsaw for any stems larger than half an inch in diameter. Pruning will help facilitate healthy growth as the weather warms up. You’ll also want to pay attention to flowering perennials and ornamental grasses. 

Rake any fallen leaves and dead foliage from plant areas. Remove existing mulch as well and place a new layer down after spring planting is complete. 

Hardscape surfaces need attention during spring cleaning as well. Walkways and patios may have loose gravel, so rake it back up and refill any joints that may need it. Use a pressure washer (if you don’t own one, they are also available to rent) to remove algae spots or leaf stains from walkways and patio areas. While the pressure washer is out, pay attention to your siding and exterior home features as well. 

If there are fence pickets or boards that have been rotted and damaged, remove those and scrub with a mixture of 2 gallons water, 2 quarts bleach and 1 cup liquid soap. Rotted sections can be patched with wood epoxy or you can replace pieces if necessary. 

Wait to mow grass until the grass has grown 2 or 3 inches tall. This mixed with efficient soil and fertilizer placement will ensure a healthy lawn throughout the warm months. 

Spring is one of the two times (minimum) annually that you should clean your gutters. While tedious, it is an important task. If you would rather pass the chore along, there are professional services that offer assistance. 

If you have an outdoor kitchen or entertainment space, it is likely that it’s been a bit neglected during the colder months. Dirt and grime can quickly overtake these spaces, so inspect your yard and porch for messes or wear and tear. 

When you are refreshing your home’s exterior for the spring season, pay attention to one area at a time in order to avoid overwhelm. If you need to spread the chores across a few days or weeks, that is completely okay! Also be sure to wear the right outdoor working gear and sunscreen to protect your skin. Once all of your outdoor cleaning is complete, you’ll be able to relax and be joyful each time you pull into your driveway.