Get an Early Start with These 6 Spring Maintenance Tasks

Spring can be hard to imagine, even in March. Whether you’re looking at a foot or more of snow on the ground, or mountains of it in melting in the parking lots of your local shopping center, spring really is coming soon — and bringing with it a number of potential major projects.

While lawn, garden, and landscaping are the primary chores, there are a few other things you can cross off your list to ensure you’re ready to tackle those bigger tasks when the time comes.

Spring Maintenance Tasks to Help You Prepare for Warmer Weather

1. Garage, basement, and attic.

   Before the summer heat sets in, early spring is great time to clean out your garage, attic, basement, and any outbuildings or sheds you have on your property. This is your chance to eliminate clutter. Old clothes, furniture, books and other items you’ve been storing can be taken to the Salvation Army and Goodwill. Keep track of what you donate and take a deduction on your 2019 tax return. Once you get everything cleaned up, take the time to organize what remains.

2. Gutters.

   If you weren’t able to get around to cleaning your gutters out last fall, you’ll want to do so as soon as you can. Spring rain and melting snow could end up in your basement if downspouts are clogged with leaves and other debris.

3. Porch, patio, and deck.

   Getting outdoor spaces ready on the first warm day of spring is a wonderful way to put winter to rest once and for all. Clear away winter debris. Determine whether you’ll need to paint, stain, or replace damaged tiles before bringing out outdoor furniture and your grill.

4. Windows.

   Power washing windows is a great way to wash away winter remnants and to brighten up your home and your mood.

5. Tool prep.

   You’ll want to make sure that your tools are in good working order and ready to go in preparation for those big projects. Your lawnmower will need fresh oil and fuel. Check the blades to make sure they’re sharp. Make sure your spreader is clean and ready to drops seeds to fill the bald spots on your lawn. Rakes, shovels, garden tools, and work gloves should all be in good shape. This process will help you identify any items you’ll need to pick up in advance of the work itself.

6. Stock up.

   Now that you’ve gotten some inside and outside tasks completed, it’s time to bring in the things you’ll need in order to get an early start on the lawn and garden. Avoid needless trips to Home Depot or Lowe’s by picking up fertilizer, soil, lawn seed, and mulch as soon as possible. Watch for spring sales.

A head start in and around the house in early spring gets you moving and prepares you for the big yard projects ahead. Taking these simple steps will make the work all that much easier — and free up time for you to enjoy your home in the summer months that follow.