Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Outdoor Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Home

With the weather warming up, you are likely eager to get outside and enjoy your outdoor areas. After the winter months, you may see some damage to your home, deck, concrete, roof or some areas that need special attention. If you can't tackle your checklist alone, hire a professional to help complete projects. Here are ideas for outdoor spring cleaning:
Wash the house.  If you do not wash your home’s exterior regularly, mold, mildew, dirt, and many other contaminants can become embedded in your home’s siding. In addition to the negative impact this has on your home’s beauty and curb appeal, it will also quickly destroy your home’s exterior. Professional power washing can offer a low pressure, high heat steam clean that will far surpass the capabilities of the typical cold water pressure washer.
Check your gutters. From the late fall through the winter months, falling leaves, twigs and other debris can clog your gutters and prevent them from moving water away from your home. Having clogged gutters can even be responsible for roof leaks and basement water damage. Cleaning your gutters on a regular basis is the best way to prevent damage to your home and yard.
Get your deck ready for summer fun. Wood, stone and composite decks can harbor mold and mildew that begins to grow as soon as spring and summer heat arrives. Save yourself some time and have your deck professionally cleaned, so that you are ready to set up your patio furniture. Choosing the right service is based on the condition of your deck and whether you plan to stain it. Staining is necessary to protect the surface from weather, foot and paw traffic, mold or mildew, and other residue.
Get your driveway sealed. Winter de-icing and other contaminants can cause cracking and chipping that become quickly become irreversible damages. Driveways and other walkways should be power washed and sealed annually to reduce further cracking or chipping.