Monday, April 23, 2012
Don’t Forget to Spring Clean the Outside of Your Home
Many people spring clean inside the house. However, it’s even more important to inspect and clean the outside, since it receives the brunt of the weather and problems left untended can result in costly damages. When cleaning, a general rule of thumb is to start from the top and work down.
Here are some tips to get you started. (If repairs are needed, ask your local home improvement store for suggestions or call a professional.)
Inspect the Roof
Check for damage to shingles and exposed nail heads that need roofing cement applied. Look for possible leaks around the chimney and plumbing vents. Remove leaves and debris that accumulates in nooks and crannies.
Clean and Repair Gutters
Trim trees so they aren’t hanging over your house. Lean a long ladder securely against the house below the gutter. (Don’t lean it against the gutter because you can damage them.) Wear gloves and use a trowel to scoop out the debris. As you clean, examine for damage. Make sure the joints are secure and all the hangers are in good shape. Fix small holes or cracks with an appropriate product. Run water from a hose to make sure the downspouts are clear. You might consider putting on gutter guards to prevent future problems.
Hose off the Siding and Porch
Knock down cobwebs and dust with a strong stream of water. A broom dipped in a bucket of sudsy water scrubs the problem areas. You may want to use a pressure washer, but check to make sure you have the appropriate low setting recommended for wood or stucco because it can strip the paint off and gouge the surface. Clean the exterior light fixtures.
Clean Windows and Screens
Work in the shade to keep the cleaner from drying out too quickly. Water mixed with a big splash of white vinegar and a couple of drops of dishwashing detergent makes a great natural window cleaner. Scrub the windows with a sponge and dry with a good squeegee. Inspect for worn caulk or weather-stripping, and replace as necessary. Remove the screens and scrub with a brush. Rinse with a hose and reattach.
Clean Deck
Apply a recommended deck cleaner according the instructions. Scrub with a long handled brush or broom. Rinse and let it dry. Apply new stain or sealant if needed. A pump sprayer is handy for both of these jobs.
Inspect the Foundation
Hairline cracks aren’t a problem, but if you notice any that get larger, call a structural engineer. Make sure the ground slopes away from the house to allow water to drain away from the house. Check for pests like termites. If there are any spots that collect water, fill them in with soil.
Power Wash Patios, Sidewalks, and Driveways
If your brick or flagstone patio has damage, replace the broken pieces. Get rid of any weeds. Stains on cement can often be removed. If there are small crack you can fill them with a matching concrete patch. If the cracks are larger, ask for advice.
Tidy Landscaping and Fencing
Rake up any debris that’s collected over the winter. Reseed any bare spots in the lawn. Prune shrubs. Remove weeds. Add new mulch. Repair and paint fences if needed.
While regular maintenance takes time and work, it saves you tons of money in the long run. Your home is an investment worth protecting. If it all seems too overwhelming and you live in the Silicone Valley, give us a call at Simplify to inquire how our highly skilled professionals can help you spring clean the inside or outside of your home!
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