No matter what the future holds for the summer of 2020, we all deserve a well-tended backyard where we will enjoy spending time. To kick the season off on the right foot, take a look at this list of things you should do to get your outdoor space ready.
1. Aerate the Lawn… It Really Needs It! An absolut MUST for getting your house ready for summer
Your lawn was smothered all winter long and can’t wait to breathe in that fresh air again! Run the rake through it vigorously. Ideally, go over the same area several times to remove plant debris, which you will later compost. This will oxygenate your lawn and help it look its best. If there are bare patches, sow fresh seeds and fertilize as needed.
2. Refresh the Paving Stones
Have your stone walkways looked tired since the snow melted? Are some slabs cracked, have others sunk and are there weeds embedded in the joints? No need to panic! Start by removing the weeds by hand. To straighten a crooked slab, remove the polymeric sand around it, then the slab itself, and make it level again by adding crushed stoned. Finally, just put the slab back in place. As for the ones that are cracked, there is no other solution than replacing them. Finally, give the surface a good hard brush with a stiff bristle broom.
3. Wash the Exterior of the Doors… Even the Garage Door!
Many homeowners forget to wash the exterior side of their front door which should be welcoming (although these days we aren’t receiving many visitors!). An all-purpose cleaner and a rag will give you impeccable results, especially if you wipe the surface with a dry cloth to finish. Don’t forget the garage door, it’s often overlooked even though it’s in plain sight. A great way in your venture of getting the house ready for summer.
4. Paint (or Stain) Tired Wood to Bring it Back to Life
What is more depressing than a wooden balcony, shed, or fence with a faded stain or covered in chipping paint? With the stroke of a brush, you can address the situation and breathe new life into your backyard. This chore often takes several hours (or even days!), but is so worthwhile.
5. Are Your Gutters Crying Out for Help?
Your gutters should be clear to allow rainwater to run freely. Unclogging them by removing debris (usually of plant origin) is an important step after the ice has melted. If ice or snow caused the gutters to pop out of place, reattach them securely.
6. Ensure Your Windows Are in Good Repair to Prevent Catastrophes
Damage to the windows, such as cracked trim, cannot be ignored even in the summer. In the long term it can cause mould issues in addition to energy loss (heating and cooling). Walk around your property to make sure the windows are in good condition.
7. Slowly Awaken Your Flower Beds
The first step in gently bringing your sleeping flower beds to life is to remove any debris left behind, such as branches and dead leaves or winter protection of any kind. Then prune the plants according to their needs: for example, perennials should be cut down to ground level while grasses should be trimmed to a height of 12 cm. Finish by turning the mulch over to refresh it.
8. Is Your Roof Shedding Shingles?
Winter may have been hard on your roof. Without even climbing a ladder, you can check from the ground if any areas are missing shingles. You can carry out repairs over small sections of the roof by replacing only the missing shingles if the rest are in good condition.
In addition to helping you make the most of the warm weather, all of these simple improvements will add to your home’s appeal and make a positive impression on potential buyers!