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Last week I discussed some essential spring tips that you can do inside your home during these transitional weeks as we get closer to more spring-like temperatures. This week, I will focus on all the outdoor activities for your home.
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I can’t talk about spring tips without mentioning the all-important deck. Your deck material, day-in and day-out is exposed. Therefore, it is more prone to wear and tear. Make sure you inspect and maintain it regularly. Many wooden decks can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance, so be sure to keep them clean and on top of sealing.
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While wood is one of the most popular material choices for a deck, there are some great options. Recently, I rebuilt my deck, leaving the pressure-treated subfloor structure intact and I added a protected waterproof joist guard to my structure and then a new paving stone surface. It looks gorgeous and will last me 40-50 years! I love it.
Another tip is to survey your exterior walkways, sidewalks, and driveways. If you notice any small cracks, fix them now. Some great DIY-friendly products work great for fixing small cracks on both asphalt and concrete surfaces. Proper maintenance will help keep your walkways, sidewalks and driveways safe and beautiful for many years to come. This is a great way to increase carb appeal, especially if you plan to sell your home.
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When treading your outdoor space, check your sewers, evestroofs and downspouts for damage or obstructions. I like sewer curtains and guards because they help prevent sewer from being blocked by pine needles, leaves and other debris. If you do not have gutter screens, I recommend installing them.
Also, when surveying the exterior of your home, check for cracks and leaks. Don’t ignore the signs, especially if you plan to refine the basement. If you notice any pooling in or near the foundation, you may need to adjust your grading.
Look around your yard, clean up any winter debris, especially around your AC unit, and think about calling a service soon. Check for any weak branches of large old trees and contact an arborist if you have any concerns.
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Inspect your outdoor structures, such as sheds and garages, inspect and repair damage. Also, inspect any fences on your property, including a pool area, to make sure they are not damaged or weakened by winter snow or ice, and make necessary repairs so that they do not deteriorate and become dangerous.
Check for colking and repair as needed for damage, air or water leakage around exterior windows and doors, but be sure to use rubberized silicone colking as it is long lasting. It is also flexible, so is great for responding to natural expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
Also, inspect exterior finishes for signs of deterioration, such as peeling paint, loose siding, and cracks, and schedule repairs as needed.
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Your garage door is used a lot so if you notice something slightly closed, check it out by a professional. They will service your garage door tracks, lubricate the bearings and make sure the bottom seal is in good condition.
You may want to start planning your backyard recreation space, so think about what you might need. Perhaps some new seating area, lounge furniture or a fully equipped outdoor kitchen area. I think it’s great for homeowners to make the most of their home, which means not only the inside but also the outside. A well-planned backyard will provide more accommodation and enjoyment for you and your family.
The epidemic has taught us to appreciate what we have and perhaps to be a little more self-sufficient. As a result, many people choose to add a vegetable garden to their backyard. My son Michael and his wife Lisa made several raised garden beds for vegetables, herbs and plants in their backyard. This is a great way to enjoy the fruits of your labor and enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables. You could also consider getting a covered water barrel that will collect rainwater to water your garden, which will help you conserve water. Also, check your outdoor faucets and prepare them for warm weather.
Now that you have a good list of all spring home maintenance tips you should consider when starting it. You can start taking them off as soon as you are ready to enjoy the upcoming warm months.
Watch Holmes Family Rescue on CTV Life Channel on Thursday.
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