Spring into spring clean up

Yes I am fully aware that as I write this there is about 6 inches of snow outside and the snow is still falling, but Spring is actually just a couple of days away.  With having two nor’easter’s in the past week, once all this snow melts there is bound to be a lot of clean up in the yard and to the house.  Adding a checklist of spring chores to the inside and outside of your home will give you a breath of fresh air.

Why clean outside?

If the thought of spring cleaning makes you cringe or you may also be wondering why you should even bother to clean the outside of your home as well, I have a couple of reasons.  While the aesthetic benefits of a clean home are a matter of personal preference, there are other reasons to consider.

Your home says a lot about who you are as person.  Not only the inside but the outside is a true reflection of your personality.  By taking care of your home in the spring, getting ride of that winter grim will give a good impression to your neighbors and guests.  If you plan on have any events outside in your home over the spring and summer a clean home and back yard say a lot about you.   Even if its just one or two a nice atmosphere will make your outside entertaining and living more enjoyable.

Getting outside and cleaning up all the flower beds, brush and scrubs is not only beneficial for new spring growth but makes your home look fresh and clean.  I found a great list of spring cleaning chores from an awesome home improvement website, www.lovetoknow.com which I love and follow but will also help you divide and conquer.

Now we know this spring cleaning list for some people is taking on huge project.  You won’t be able to get done in one weekend and no one would expect you too.  This also could be a great way to have the kids get involved, unplug from the screen time and get outside.  Some of these projects are easy and simple to tackle alone.  Some many require the helping hand of a professional.

For the House

Cleaning the actual structure of your house is easy and will instantly improve its appearance.

• Windows: Washing windows and screens will give you a sparkling view of spring even if it’s still a bit too cold to be outside enjoying it as much as you want.
• Gutters: Cleaning out rain gutters is a fall chore for many homeowners, butchecking them again in the spring will ensure that no debris has become clogged in them during winter storms.
• Siding: Pressure wash the siding of your home to remove grime. Be sure to start at the highest points of your home to avoid washing dirt down onto clean areas.
• Garage: Cleaning out the garage will give you more space for summer equipment such as bikes, outdoor games, and gardening equipment. This may be a good time to hold a yard sale as well.

For the Deck

Whether you have a deck or patio, a few simple cleaning chores can turn it from a winter-neglected spot into a fun outdoor gathering space.

• Flooring: If you have a wood deck, inspect the wood for signs of rot or decay and make repairs as necessary. Sweep first, then scrub the wood with oxalic acid to kill microbes, and restain the deck if necessary. For a concrete patio, check for chips or cracks that need repair, and scrub away any stains.
• Furniture: If your patio furniture has been out in the weather all winter, it will need to be scrubbed clean. If it has been stored instead, now is the time to brush it off and return it to the patio or deck.
• Grills: If you have a grill, check its connections and operations, following all safety guidelines. Clean the grills and handles, lubricate the lid, and get ready for great barbecues.
• Lighting: If your patio area includes exterior lighting, check that bulbs are snugly screwed in and that all fixtures are working appropriately. Remove any rodent, bird, or insect nests and clean the fixtures so they will shine as brightly as possible.

For the Garden

Whether you have a large garden, medium flowerbeds, or just a small planted area, you can make it look better in the spring with a few simple chores.

• Weeding: Removing weeds is much easier when they’re small and the soil is moist with spring rain. To minimize the reappearance of weeds, consider using weed control fabric or tarp in your garden or flowerbeds.
• Uncover Plants: If you use covers to protect delicate plants, remove them as soon as the danger of frost has passed.
• Pruning: Spring is a fine time to prune trees and shrubs. Consider their overall size and shape when you’re pruning, and recycle the clippings in a brush pile for the birds or by creating mulch or compost.
• Insects: Spring is the best time to treat your garden area and flowerbeds for insects to minimize any pest problems.
• Mulch: Rake the mulch in your garden and flowerbeds to mix air closer to the soil and refresh the color of the mulch.

Obviously not all of these will need to be done to your home.  When going over your checklist try and find 2 or 3 from each category then tackle the chore!  You will feel so much better looking at a nice clean home this spring.  That I can promise you.