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Outdoor cleaning can be an overwhelming task, especially for Ontario homeowners. From your lawn and garden, down to the garage and patio, it can be difficult to know where to begin.
As with any large task, the best place to start is with the biggest area and work down to the easiest and least dirty, like washing windows. Try tackling it this way: the lawn and garden first, then the patio or deck, and finally your home’s exterior.
We’re here to keep things simple with our outdoor spring cleaning checklist. Make this arduous task a breeze and freshen your home’s exterior in time for spring!
Tidying Up Your Lawn and Garden
Let’s start with your lawn. It’s one of the first things people will notice when they visit your home, so keeping it spotless and presentable is an important step in your outdoor spring cleaning checklist.
Image source: Canva
Pick up the waste: Clear litter from your gardening area. Recycle what you can.
Rake dead grass: Remove dead leaves and grass left over from the fall/winter season.
Remove weeds: Tackle this before weeds grow. They’re easier to remove when small.
Prune shrubs: Clip small trees and shrubs. Recycle what’s removed into a compost pile.
Powerwash walkways: Powerwashing is an easy and efficient way to remove dirt and grime accumulated over winter, when there is little maintenance. If you can’t powerwash, use soapy, warm water and hose it down.
Organize the garden or outdoor shed: Throw away anything you won’t use or that has expired.
Lawn & Garden Spring Cleaning Tips
⭢ Wear proper clothing, such as gloves and safety masks.
⭢ Check if your tools, sprinklers, valves, and pumps are still working.
⭢ Aerate the lawn to improve soil health.
⭢ Use a balanced fertilizer for your lawn and garden beds.
Prepare Your Patio or Deck for Hosting Guests
After the winter, when your deck is subjected to snow, rain, and so much more, it’s time to treat it with some TLC. Once you’ve given it a good sweep with a stiff-bristle broom, complete these outdoor cleaning tasks:
The deck: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water. Sprinkle baking soda and white vinegar over stains and scrub with a stiff brush. Alternatively, you can powerwash the deck but use the lowest setting.
Patio furniture: Check if steam cleaning is appropriate for your type of furniture. If not, wipe the furniture’s surface with a clean cloth and hot water.
Patio doors: Give your patio doors a good scrub as well, both the glass and the screens will likely need a deep clean.
Inspect patio flooring: Inspect your floorboards for rot, decay, or warping. Make repairs soon to avoid long-term damage.
Check electrical outlets: Months of no usage, dust, and cobwebs can sometimes cause electrical fixtures to stop working.
Patio & Deck Spring Cleaning Tips
⭢ Use cold water to prevent the wood from expanding.
⭢ Use ammonia-free dish soap to clean grime off floorboards.
⭢ Treat and seal wooden decks to protect it from the elements.
Tending to the Exterior of Your House
Below are some suggestions for areas to tackle when cleaning the exterior of your house.
Image source: Canva
Clean gutters, eavestroughs, and downspouts: During fall, these areas can accumulate dirt, dead leaves, and much more. Spring is a good time to clean these areas to prevent flooding or blockages. Professionals can help with this outdoor cleaning job, as these areas are difficult to reach.
Clear out the garage: If you have things you’re not using or rarely use, have a yard sale. Doing this will add additional storage space and make cleaning easier.
Clean your windows: Cleaning outdoor windows can be done with soapy water. Wash windows and screens gently to avoid damaging the surface. Rinse and wipe the windows with a dry cloth.
Clean the glass: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz on the glass. Use paper towels to remove excess water on the surface for clean, streak-free windows.
Wipe down the doors: Check damages to old doors first and make repairs or replacements as necessary. Mix mild dish soap and warm water, and, using a soft sponge or clean cloth, scrub the surface of the door lightly.
Exterior of Your Home Spring Cleaning Tips
⭢ Check your retaining walls for damages or cracks.
⭢ Clean window glass with equal parts white vinegar and water for a streak-free shine.
⭢ Powerwash the siding of your home to remove dirt, mould, and mildew.
⭢ Touch-up paint where needed.
⭢ Inspect and clean outdoor lighting.
Your Next Steps as a Homeowner
Follow this outdoor spring cleaning checklist for a spotless outdoor space, giving special attention to your doors and windows. Unfortunately, this part of a home is often forgotten when outdoor cleaning, which can cause issues down the road, including drafts, water damage, and energy inefficiency.
Regular upkeep ensures optimal performance, enhances home comfort, and preserves property value. If your inspection uncovers the need for bigger home improvements, like replacement exterior doors or new windows, Burano Doors can help!
We’re Ontario’s number one choice for customizable doors and windows. We offer various styles, colours, and designs for your specific needs. Our ENERGY STAR®-certified and NFRC-approved products ensure you get the best value for your money.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for a FREE estimate!
