You may be finding evidence of the toll the winter took on your yard and  exterior of your home. Your likely to find debris, damage, and potential safety hazards. But fear not! With spring's arrival, now is the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and tackle some much-needed yard and exterior cleaning. Not only will this help your home look its best, but it will also ensure a safe and inviting outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy during the warmer months.

Clear away winter debris

The first step in your spring cleaning routine should be to clear away any debris that winter may have left behind. Fallen leaves, broken branches, and other debris can accumulate in your yard and pose a safety risk. Rake up leaves, pick up branches, and remove any dead plants or flowers. Check your roof and gutters for any ice dams, icicles, or debris that may have accumulated during winter storms.

Inspect for winter damage

Winter weather can cause damage to various parts of your home's exterior. Check for any signs of damage to your roof, gutters, siding, windows, and doors. Look for cracks, leaks, loose shingles, or other visible damage that may have occurred during winter storms. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safety and integrity of your home.

Clean and inspect your gutters

Clogged gutters can cause water damage to your home's foundation and exterior walls, so it's crucial to clean and inspect your gutters after winter. Remove any leaves, debris, or ice that may have accumulated in your gutters, and check for any signs of damage. Make sure that your gutters are properly attached and functioning to prevent water damage and ensure proper drainage.

Prune and trim trees and shrubs

Winter storms can cause branches to break or become damaged, posing a safety risk. Prune away any dead or damaged branches from your trees and shrubs to promote healthy growth and prevent potential hazards. Trim overgrown branches that may be obstructing walkways or driveways. Use proper tools and techniques to avoid damaging the plants and ensure safety while pruning.

Check your outdoor lighting

With the days getting longer, proper outdoor lighting becomes even more important for safety. Check all your outdoor lighting fixtures, including pathway lights, porch lights, and security lights, and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Make sure that your outdoor lighting is functioning properly to provide adequate illumination and prevent trips and falls.

Inspect and clean walkways and driveways

Winter weather can cause cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces on your walkways and driveways, posing a safety risk. Inspect and repair any damage to your walkways and driveways, and clean them from any debris, ice, or snow that may have accumulated during winter. Make sure that your walkways and driveways are safe to walk and drive on to prevent accidents.

Clean your outdoor furniture and equipment

After being exposed to winter weather, your outdoor furniture and equipment may need some cleaning and maintenance. Clean your outdoor furniture, cushions, umbrellas, and other outdoor items according to the manufacturer's instructions. Inspect and clean your grill, outdoor appliances, and tools. If needed, apply a fresh coat of paint or stain to your outdoor furniture and equipment to protect them from further damage and extend their lifespan.

Add safety features

Spring cleaning is also a great time to add or update safety features in your yard and exterior. Consider installing handrails on stairs, adding nonslip mats or rugs to slippery surfaces, and placing adequate lighting in dark areas. Make sure that your home address numbers are visible and in good condition to assist emergency services. Investing in safety measures will help prevent accidents and ensure a safe outdoor environment for you and your family.

You work hard to make sure your property is in tip-top shape. Count on AAA Insurance to work hard to protect you from property damage expenses. 

AAA Insurance