When you think of a clean house you typically only think of the interior space. Although it’s crucial to keep the inside of your house looking good, it’s just as important to maintain the exterior of a home. A good fall wash on the exterior of your home can do wonders when preparing for the winter and even save you money in the long run.
If you’re looking to give your exterior a much-needed deep cleaning but are unsure where to start, read on for what features you should be focused on this fall.
01. Windows
You’ve probably cleaned your interior windows more times than you can count, however, the same should be said for your exterior windows. We often associate pollen and dirt with springtime, however, fall is prime allergy season. Pollen released by grass, trees, and weeds can stick to the windows and scratch the surface, even affecting our indoor air quality. Crevices around the window frame can also collect moisture and grow mold and mildew, which then will intensify during the winter months due to snow and ice. Using a low-pressure soft wash can get rid of any buildup and grime.
02. Gutters
We don’t often think of our gutters when it’s time to do a fall cleaning. It may seem tedious and exhausting to have to clean leaves and debris out of the gutters. However, you may be protecting yourself from future issues by maintaining your gutters. When your gutter clogs due to dirt, leaves, and debris build-up, rainwater will have nowhere to go, thus overflowing and causing damage to the exterior and potentially interior of your home. Cleaning your gutters at least twice a year will minimize the risk of water damage and protects you from a cracked foundation.
03. Patio, Decks, and Driveway
Something many people don’t consider is the importance of maintenance and cleaning in areas like your patio, deck, and driveway. We often assume that rainwater or snow will take care of those grease stains and dirt. However, without regular cleaning, your patio, deck, and driveway can grow mold and algae, which can break down the material and cause future damage. Power cleaning your driveway during the fall will also keep everyone safe, as a clean driveway means good friction that you’ll need during the wintertime. Now is a great time to powerwash and help get rid of unwanted weeds and oil stains from concrete. Regular washes can not only maintain these areas but can also expand their lifespan and prevent further stains and damage. If you’re looking to sell your home in the near future, it will also help with maintaining visual appeal.
04. Outdoor Furniture
You’ve spent the spring and summer outside enjoying the warm weather, and as it gets colder you find yourself spending less and less time outside on your outdoor furniture. For many, it’s normal to throw the furniture in the garage until next spring, but before you store your outdoor furniture you might want to give it a good cleaning. Rain and humidity during the hot summers can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew. In many cases, you’ll just need a brush, garden hose, and detergent to give your patio furniture a good cleaning. Regular cleaning can help maintain your outdoor furniture and keep it looking good, but it can also keep the debris and pollution at bay as it naturally builds over time.
Conclusion
Home projects are doable but can be costly. If you don’t want to break the bank or tap into your savings in order to maintain your home, consider utilizing a home equity loan. These are commonly used to finance home repairs and upgrades and are a quick way to get cash from the equity you’ve built up in your home. If you have a little more time to save up for these projects, you should consider creating a budget and determining how much money you can put aside each month.
Fall is the best time to focus on improving your home, whether you’re looking to make any minor or major renovations or simply sticking to a good wash. Not only will the cooler months save you and your contractors from the blistering heat but will also reduce any safety hazards. Even if you don’t see the dirt, it’s vital that you spend time preserving the exterior of your home for curb appeal, as well as for you and your family’s safety.
