Keeping the outside of your home in good condition can feel like an overwhelming job, but it becomes much less daunting when you divide it up into a schedule of seasonal tasks. Tackling a few jobs at the right time of year will keep your home looking its best while also preventing small problems from getting worse to the point where major repairs are needed.
Not sure where to begin? This simple seasonal guide will help you to stay on top of the essentials all year round.
Spring: Inspect & Refresh
After months of cold, wet and windy weather, spring is the perfect time to inspect your property for problem areas. Walk around the outside of your home and look for any signs of damage: loose roof tiles, peeling paint, gaps around windows and doors, that kind of thing. Spotting these issues early will give you plenty of time to arrange repairs before winter rolls around again.
If you need to reach your roof or gutter, use a suitable extension ladder on firm, level ground and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions. If a job cannot be completed safely, don’t put yourself at risk – leave it to a professional.
Spring is also a good time to wash exterior windows, wipe down doors and clean paving stones. A thorough tidy-up can instantly brighten the outside of your home (and will potentially reveal cracks, stains and other spots that need attention).
Summer: Protect & Improve
Longer days and drier weather make summer ideal for exterior decorating. Check painted woodwork, fences, gates and sheds for fading, flaking or bare patches. A fresh coat of suitable outdoor paint or preservative will improve the appearance of these features while also helping to protect them from harsh weather.
Take a close look at patios, decking and steps too. Remove weeds, sweep away dirt and deal with slippery patches before these things get the chance to pose a hazard. Wooden decking may need cleaning and resealing, while loose paving slabs should be repaired so that nobody trips over them.
Plants grow quickly during the warmer months, so trim back branches and climbers that are touching walls, gutters, windows or the roof. This will improve airflow and make developing problems easier to spot. Keep shrubs away from paths and entrances too.
Autumn: Prepare for Bad Weather
Autumn is all about getting ready for the colder, wetter months ahead. Falling leaves can quickly block gutters and drains, so check them regularly throughout the season. Make sure water can run freely away from your property, and clear leaves from paths and steps before they become wet and slippery.
Inspect doors and windows for draughts, damaged seals or cracked frames. Repairing small gaps can help to keep rain out and make your home feel more comfortable as temperatures fall. It is also worth checking exterior lights, replacing failed bulbs and cleaning dirty fittings before the evenings get too dark.
Strong winds can turn unsecured objects into hazards. Store away lightweight garden furnishings and decorations, or at least make sure such items are firmly secured. Check fences, gates and shed roofs for loose sections while the weather is still mild enough to carry out repairs.
Winter: Monitor & Respond
Winter is not usually the best season for major outdoor projects, but regular checks are still important. After storms, inspect your property from ground level for slipped tiles, damaged guttering, fallen branches and loose fence panels. Arrange prompt repairs where necessary rather than leaving the damage to worsen.
Keep entrances, steps and paths clear of leaves, snow and ice. Good outdoor lighting is especially important during the long winter nights, so make sure routes around your home are easy to see. Avoid climbing ladders in icy, wet or windy conditions; many maintenance jobs are better left until the weather improves.
Cold temperatures can also affect outdoor taps and exposed pipes. Check that any protective covers or insulation remain secure, and look out for leaks when temperatures rise again. If you notice a problem that involves plumbing, electrics or the roof, contact a qualified professional.