11 Projects We Added to Our Springtime To-do List
Indoors and out, there are lots of jobs we can do around the house now that it's spring. Are you with us? It's the perfect time for spring cleaning, so let's get busy.
1. Clear Downspouts and Gutters
Remove debris. Clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris that have accumulated in the gutters and downspouts. Use a garden hose to flush out any remaining debris and check for clogs or obstructions in the downspouts.
Inspect for damage. Look for signs of damage or leaks in the gutters and downspouts, and make repairs as needed to ensure proper drainage. If you had heavy snow and ice damage during the winter months, check for shingle damage or for signs that the gutters pulled away from the fascia. (Suspect water damage? Check your attic space, too. There may be evidence of water penetration including water stains and other signs of leaks.)
Related: How to Check for Gutter Damage After the Winter
2. Prune Trees and Shrubs
Remove bead branches. Trim back dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs to promote healthy growth and prevent potential hazards. This is also a great time to prune the overall appearance of trees and shrubs for curb appeal, and to encourage better airflow and sunlight penetration.
Consult an expert. If you're unsure about how to prune certain plants or trees, consider consulting a professional arborist early in the warmer months. They'll also be best able to help with large branches or pruning that's out of reach.
3. Pressure Wash Exterior Surfaces
Warmer weather means you can use a pressure washer to clean exterior surfaces such as wood trim, siding, PVC and wood decks, driveways, and sidewalks, removing dirt, mold, mildew, and other buildup accumulated during the cold weather. Remember to adjust the pressure washer settings to prevent damage, especially to delicate materials like wood or stucco.
The proper technique. Hold the pressure washer nozzle at a consistent distance from the surface and work in overlapping passes to ensure thorough cleaning.
Take safety precautions. Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles and closed-toe shoes, and be mindful of nearby plants and landscaping to avoid damage.
Related: How to Get Your Lawn Mower Ready for Spring
4. Repair Driveway and Walkway Cracks
Use a pressure washer to clean the surface. Focus on getting patches of moss and dirt off the surface if it needs repair.
Fill cracks. Use a concrete or asphalt patching compound to fill in any cracks or potholes in the driveway and walkways caused by freezing and thawing cycles.
Consider sealing a blacktop driveway. Apply a sealant or protective coating to the repaired areas to help prevent future damage and extend the lifespan of the driveway and walkways.
Related: The Mesa Torch Brings Major Ambiance to Your Outdoor Living Space—See For Yourself
5. Clean and Inspect Outdoor Furniture
Take care of your outdoor furniture by keeping the framework clean and the cushions dry and free of dust and pollen. You can also get ready for warm weather by purchasing patio furniture covers and UV sun protection to help prevent premature wear and fading.
6. Prep Garden Beds and Planting Areas
Prepare your garden for spring by clearing away debris, such as leaves and dead plants. It's also a great time to enhance the soil quality by spreading compost to adjust pH levels.
If you know what you're going to plant this year, plan the layout of your garden beds based on sunlight and spacing needs for optimal growth. Begin indoor seeding for early crops or plants needing a longer growing period.
Related: Should You Use Pressure-Treated Wood for Garden Fence Posts?
7. Clean and Inspect Outdoor Lighting Fixtures
Remove debris. Clear dirt, cobwebs, and other debris from outdoor lighting fixtures, including wall-mounted sconces, post lights, ceiling fans, and pathway lights.
Check wiring and connections. Inspect the wiring and connections of outdoor lighting fixtures for signs of damage or corrosion, and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
Replace bulbs. Replace any burnt-out bulbs. (This is a great time to upgrade to LED bulbs!)
8. Clean and Service Outdoor HVAC
Start by cleaning the exterior of the unit, removing any debris, leaves, or obstructions that may have accumulated during the winter. Remember to check the fins and coils for dirt or damage, gently cleaning them with a soft brush or hose if necessary.
Also, check the condensate drain for clogs and clear any blockages to prevent water damage.
Inside, replace your dirty air filter.
Finally, schedule repairs with a professional HVAC service. Hire them to perform a thorough inspection of your air conditioning systems, including checking refrigerant levels, electrical connections, and overall system efficiency. An annual checkup can save you future costly repairs!
Related: Is Your HVAC System Summer-Ready? Now’s the Time to Prepare for Warm Weather
9. Inspect the Irrigation System and Outdoor Faucets
Check for issues. Look for leaks or puddles around sprinkler heads and along pipes. Check hoses for cracks, and make sure you don't have a leaky faucet.
Test each zone separately to ensure all areas are receiving adequate water.
Clean or replace clogged or damaged sprinkler heads. Look for signs of water pressure issues, such as uneven coverage or weak spray patterns. Also, adjust sprinkler heads to ensure they're targeting the intended areas and not spraying onto sidewalks, driveways, or the house (hello, accidental water damage).
Inspect valves and timers for proper functionality and programming. Additionally, make sure the rain sensors are functioning correctly before chancing damage from spring rain.
10. Prepare Outdoor Planters
Get your outdoor planters ready by cleaning them out and checking for damage. Fill them with fresh potting soil, leaving space at the top for your new greenery. Choose plants that suit the sunlight and water needs, then plant them up and watch them grow.
Related: How to Clean A Refrigerator Water and Ice Dispenser
11. Swap Out Glass Storm Door and Window Panes
Remove storm door and exterior window panels. Carefully unscrew or unlatch the storm window and door from the frame, taking care not to damage the glass, frame, or door or window casing. Store the panel in a safe place.
Clean and inspect window screens and screen door panels. Take a close look for wear and tear on your screen panels. Before you install, this is a great time to wash them gently with a hose and mild soap. If you see any damage, consider a screen repair kit or install new screen in the frame (all it takes is a plastic screen rolling tool and a little patience).
