As the weather warms up and we head into the summer months, it's important to get your outdoor space ready for use and enjoyment. From cleaning and organizing outdoor furniture to checking and repairing outdoor lighting, there are several tasks that can be done to make sure your outdoor space will be ready and safe all season long.
1. Clean and Organize Outdoor Furniture
The first step to getting your outdoor space ready for summer is to clean and organize your outdoor furniture. This includes washing off dirt and debris, tightening any loose screws or bolts, and repairing any damage left from the previous season or that has occurred over the winter months. If you have a large amount of furniture or specialized materials, such as wrought iron or wicker, you may want to bring in an experienced repair person – it’ll likely be less costly than replacing the entire item.
2. Check and Repair Outdoor Lighting
Next, you should inspect and repair any outdoor lighting fixtures to ensure that they are functioning properly and safely. This includes replacing any burnt-out bulbs, cleaning lenses or fixtures, and checking wiring connections (especially on older fixtures or those damaged over the winter). If you have outdoor outlets, make sure they are functional and will remain waterproof for another season. Always hire a professional if you’re not comfortable working with electrical wiring – safety first!
3. Prepare Outdoor Kitchens or Grilling Areas
If you have an outdoor kitchen or grilling area, it is important to prepare it for summer use. This includes checking gas connections, cleaning grills or other cooking surfaces, and making sure critters haven't moved in over the winter. Check for damaged or rusted parts/surfaces and make sure the necessary repairs or replacements are made before it's time to light things up. If you use propane tanks as the fuel source, it's always a good idea to keep a full one as a back-up - there's nothing worse than running out of fuel before the steaks are done.
4. Inspect and Clean Decks or Patios
Decks and patios can take a beating over the winter months, so it is important to inspect and clean them thoroughly before the summer season begins. This includes checking for any damage, such as loose boards or nails, and repairing or replacing as necessary. After a number of years, most well-constructed fences, decks and patios will require some attention - some times, replacing a few boards and railings is all that's required to keep these structures in good shape.
5. Install or Repair Landscape Structures
Finally, check whether you need to repair any outdoor landscape structures or features, such as perimeter fences, garden gazebos, or awning. Some of these structures may become a hazard, if not attended to right away. If you decide to finally build that wooden arbour or reset your stone walkway, early in the spring is the time to get those projects finished.
Getting your outdoor space ready for summer involves several important tasks. Some of these will simply enhance the beauty and comfort of your garden or yard, while others will ensure everyone is safe. Most of these projects are simple enough for the average DIY home-owner, others may require significant expertise and the proper tools to get the job done quickly and safely. If you need a hand getting your outdoor space ready for the summer, don't hesitate to call our team at Windsor Handyman Services - we're here to help!