Follow these six steps to spruce up your outdoor area for the new season.
Spring into gear
Spring is a great time of year to give your home a scrub and update the essentials - especially in your outdoor spaces, where you hope to spend time in the warmer months. Tick these items off your list for an outdoor zone that’s beautiful and barbecue ready.
1. Clear grime and debris
Start with a thorough clean-up. Water blast paths, driveways, stone walls and outdoor furniture, as well as windows and fences, says Candice Cook of Kärcher. “This helps to remove dirt, stains, algae and moss, restoring the original appearance of the surfaces, and can eliminate harmful contaminants that may cause deterioration over time,” she says. “Accessories such as the new Kärcher eco!Booster nozzles make the job even quicker and more efficient.” With the fire season ahead, this is also the time to remove debris from your gutters.
2. Get smart with tech
Make evenings memorable with smart lighting. Install ambient lighting for the barbecue area or something brighter for a party. Add motion-activated sensor lights to keep you and your guests safe when arriving or leaving at night. And think about rigging up a smart camera and alarm system to keep an eye on your home when you’re out and about.
3. Do an irrigation audit
Check for any leaks or blockages in your irrigation system and replace damaged components. Well-maintained tubes and fittings will ensure your plants get the water they need to thrive. To keep your garden lush whether you’re home or away, consider installing a smart irrigation system with automated scheduling - you can set different watering zones and receive freeze warnings and other updates. Note you will need to be aware of any watering restrictions and adjust timer settings to suit.
4. Add outdoor storage
A clutter-free garden is a happy, welcoming space. Invest in durable outdoor storage to keep hoses, garden tools and accessories organised and out of sight. This not only protects your equipment, but keeps outdoor areas looking neat.
5. Blitz the barbecue
Prepare your outdoor cooking zone for those spring gatherings. Start with a deep clean of your grilling machine. Catherine Brown from Selleys recommends using specialised barbecue cleaners and products. “They make a tough job easy so you can get your barbecue area ready in no time!” says Catherine. Don’t forget to check your gas bottle is full and all connections are secure.
6. Check your tools
Inspect garden gear and hoses for wear and tear. Well maintained tools make outdoor tasks easier and safer – loose handles and cracked blades can lead to mishaps. Replace damaged items and ensure everything is stored away securely.
Get your outdoors pristine!
Learn how to deep clean all outdoor surfaces around your home.
Photo credit: Alex Reinders