Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and it’s a great season to clean and prep your patio for its most important job: to let you enjoy a beautiful Spring day outdoors with your friends. Although the season is just starting, there are plenty of things you can do now to get ready for what’s to come in the months ahead!
I think of the patio as my little haven. It’s a great place to sit and have a cup of coffee and take in the fresh air. So when the weather starts getting warm, I start getting so anxious. I take it one step at a time.
First things first, I start with a “Clean Slate” ..This is Key! We have to Start Somewhere, right?
If you too are itching to get the Patio Ready without the stress and frustration when you don’t have a plan, then we are here to help you get started.
“Let’s Get Busy”
As the weather warms up, it’s time to start thinking about prepping your patio and outdoor spaces for Spring. Although a deep clean outside may seem daunting at first, it doesn’t have to be. These simple cleaning tips are perfect for the DIYer who wants to make their outdoor area look like new again.
Start by Gathering Supplies. This is the first step to any successful Spring cleaning project is gathering the right supplies.
You’ll need a good broom, dustpan, garden hose, power washer (optional), bucket, scrub brush, gloves, detergent or soap, and a sponge.
The Beginning
To help get you started, here are some tips for getting ready for the spring season.
The outside of our home and the Patio (which is an extension of our Home) demands the same attention as the Inside. What I mean is that it will need a Spring Cleaning and some careful maintenance.
Below, I’ll share some Spring Cleaning tips for preparing your Patio for the warmer months ahead.
We’re getting closer to the warmer weather and basically you want your patio ready to use right? If so, you’ll need to prep, clean and maintain it in a few steps which I’ll show you in this Article.
The Plan
Introduction
- Explanation of the importance of patio cleaning
- Benefits of having a clean patio
Clearing the area
- Remove all furniture, pots and decorative items.
- Sweep the surface to remove debris and dirt
Deep Cleaning the Patio
- Power washing or scrubbing with a cleaning solution
- Tips for removing tough stains
- Cleaning outdoor rugs or mats, or possibly replacing
Maintaining the Patio
- Regular cleaning schedule
- Tips for preventing future, stains, and dirt build up
- Sealing the patio, to protect it from damage in the future
Conclusion
- Recap the importance of patio cleaning
- Final tips for patio cleaning and refreshing
Preparation
Preparing your patio for spring can be an exciting way to welcome the warmer weather and enjoy some outdoor time. Here are some steps you can take to get your patio, ready for Spring:
The first things to do when cleaning the outside of your home!
First things first, Open exterior water faucets and prepare hose for warm weather
Top Products to Make Preparation Quicker
1. Clean Patio/Deck
I start by cleaning out the patio, removing any leaves and twigs that may have accumulated during the winter. Be sure to get rid of any weeds that may be growing nearby, cleaning out the furniture of leaves and dust and doing a simple wipe down. Sweep or use a leaf blower to clear off any or decor you have.
2. Wipe Down All Exposed Areas
Wash the front and back doors, windows, and trims of dust, grime, salt residue, and old pollen.
You would be amazed at the difference it makes. If you are already dreading this, you can also consider purchasing a Power Washer, Renting A Power Washer or if you already have one now is the time to get the patio pressure washed to make it look newly installed.
Tip: Check for any cracks/loose boards for replacement.
3. Inspect Your Patio Furniture
Check each piece of furniture for any damage, such as cracks, or rush, and make repairs or replace items as needed.
Give your patio furniture a good cleaning. If your furniture has been stored away for the winter, it will likely need a good cleaning before you use it again. Wash down all the surfaces with soapy water and let it air dry.
Inspect your furniture for any damage. Take a close look at all of your patio furniture to check for any damage that may have occurred over the winter. If you find any cracks, chips, or other damage, it’s best to repair or replace the affected pieces before using them again.
4. Check Your Lighting
Make sure your outdoor lighting is working properly. Replace any burnt out bulbs, and consider adding some additional lighting, such as string lights, or lanterns for a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
5. Clean Out Gutters and Drains
Be sure there is no debris, leaves, nest etc.. Also, ensure that you replace or repair areas that are needed.
Tip: not cleaning gutters and drains out is a recipe for water damage inside your home and if you have a basement inside of your basement. This is a very costly shortcut you don’t want to make.
6. Make Sure Your Grill is Ready
If you have a Grill make sure it’s clean and ready for use. Check for any propane leeks and make sure the grill grates are clean before firing it up for the first time in this season
7. Garage Area
Rinse and wipe off the dirt off the outside of your garage door. Clean the inside to remove cobwebs and dirt. This is a good time to check your screens if you have them for any rips. Washing the inside and the outside of all windows.
8. Check your Roof and Shingles
Check for missing or flapping shingles, this can be done without climbing on the roof. Check for signs of interior leaks as well. This one is all obvious (I know) but sometimes overlooked. Be sure to check your attic if you have one that is another indicator of possible leaking.
9. Clear Dead Shrubs Plants
Cutting back and removing dead plants and shrubs can easily be done using a shovel for the dead shrubs and plants. For areas that have leaf debris and plant clippings you can use your rake. If you are unsure whether they are dead, perhaps contact a local nursery. I have done that in the past, and they have been very helpful.
10. Clean Air Conditioner Area
Clean up any debris that may be laying around the unit itself. Also, pull back weeds or anything that can interfere with a proper running of the unit.
This is also a good time to changing the air filters (you are allowing cleaner air in each of the rooms). Be sure that you replace it with the exact filter required for that unit. There are several types of filters you can use a HEPA for the highest efficiency. Also, be sure to replace the return air duct filter as well on the inside of your home wiping down the grill with a microfiber cloth.
TIP: When inserting the new filter be sure that the filter is going in the proper direction. There are arrow indicators on the side of your filter. Be sure to look before replacing.
11. Inspect Chimney
Inspect the Chimney for any damage endured over winter.
For this job, it is best to call an expert who deals with chimney repairs, and repointing. There are several other pieces that a trained professional can easily and quickly address. It will prevent you from either having a severe accident and or death falling off of a roof. Unless you are trained professional.
Tip: Not addressing your Chimney is a recipe for a possibility of a Home Fire.
WHEW… That’s sums it up. Now we are well on our way to the best part setting up the patio for entertainment, enjoyment and gatherings.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can get your patio ready for Spring quicker and more efficiently.
I think of the patio as my little haven a peaceful retreat into Nature. It’s a great place to sit and have a cup of coffee and take in the fresh air. What is your favorite thing to do on the Patio? Let us know in the comments. I love to hear from my Readers.
You will soon be enjoying the warmer weather and a Patio ready to Decorate and Entertain.
Now you can say… “Come join me on the Patio and Stay Awhile “.
Thanks again for being a part of The City Cottage family. I love when we can visit together.
Until next time…..
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What a great post, Patty! I have a new patio that I really need to start decorating! You have given me so many ideas! Wonderful to be here today!
Thanks Yvonne for visiting….I enjoy your blog thoroughly. I have learned so much over the years of following you. Congrats on your ”new” Tanglewood home . Looking forward to your updates…Blessing, Patricia