Fall is fast approaching, which means sprucing up your home may soon become trickier. Many repairs and updates are best done in warm weather—before everything gets covered in leaves. In other words, now is the time to look closely at your to-do list.
If you’re thinking of performing these five upgrades, it’s best to prioritize them before fall is in full swing…
1) Power washing your exterior
Summer is the ideal time to get outside and deep clean your home’s outdoor surfaces. That means your brick walkway, concrete front steps, and vinyl siding. One of the easiest (and most effective) ways to get the job done is with a power washer, which uses high-pressure heated water to scour away dirt, grime, and other types of debris.
You can rent power washers from many home improvement stores, so try inquiring at the one closest to you. Word of warning: some materials can be damaged by these machines, so do your homework beforehand.
2) Repainting your deck
A deck can add significant value to your home—especially if it’s well maintained. Before the leaves start falling, take a good look at yours. Has it seen better days? If so, now is the time to repair the damage, do some sanding, and apply a new coat of paint or stain.
So long as there aren’t any major defects to deal with (like rotten wood), you may be able to repaint or stain your deck over a weekend. All it takes is some planning!
3) Replacing your siding
The look of your siding can have a major impact on the overall impression your home gives off. To ensure your exterior looks its best, you’ll want to remove and replace any portions that are cracked or broken. A zip tool is ideal for taking off damaged boards with ease.
If all of your siding could use a boost, consider a full-scale replacement. Vinyl is a popular, cost-effective option—one that can add significantly to your home’s worth. The job will likely take a couple of weeks, so be prepared to get started right away.
4) Scouring the grill
If you’ve been firing up the grill this summer, you should schedule some time to clean it off—before you cover it up for the season. Remember that grime only gets harder to remove with time (and that’s not what you want when you’re talking about a cooking surface).
Non-scratch scouring pads and BBQ brushes are the perfect tools for tackling built-up soot and grease. You can soak your grill grates in dishwashing detergent and water, and use a non-toxic degreaser if need be.
5) Reconsidering the front door
Looking to spruce up the front of your property? A fresh coat of paint for your front door can provide some serious curb appeal. Using hues that complement your home’s exterior can make a welcoming first impression, but that doesn’t mean the shade you choose should be drab.
There’s a diverse array of bold paint colours out there, it’s just a matter of choosing the right one. If you’re planning to sell in the not-too-distant future, consider a richer hue instead of a vibrant one. Berry red, midnight blue, and forest green can all look incredible on the right home!
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