Fall Cleaning: How to Get Your Home's Exterior Ready for Winter

Some people don't worry about autumn cleaning, since the snow will be falling soon and they have to do it all over again in the spring. However, it's a good idea to get rid of your home's dirt and grime from the past summer. Don't get too in-depth, but cover the basics and let the rest wait till spring. Here are some ideas to get you started on your exterior fall cleaning.

Power wash the exterior of your house

A power washer, also called a pressure washer, has enough power to get rid of your home's residue that's been getting caked on over the summer with a heavy stream of water. You can buy one of these powerful machines or, if you don't plan on using it often, you can rent one. Start with the roof and work your way down.

Clean the rain gutters on your home

Clogged rain gutters can cause serious damage so, once all the leaves have fallen, get rid of that soggy mess in your gutters. You can use the power washer to clean the exterior, but use a regular lawn hose for the inside after cleaning out the heavy stuff by hand.

Wash your home's decks and fences

Also use the power washer to clean your home's decks, fences, and other wood surfaces. Replace any nails or screws that are missing. Don't worry about repainting or staining them until spring, though.

Clean the driveways and sidewalks

The power washer is a multi-purpose machine; you can also use it to clean your driveway and sidewalks. After all, cleaning isn't confined just to the house! And don't forget to trim the grass that is growing between the cracks.

Wash the windows, both interior and exterior

You will not want to use the power washer on your windows, however; the pressure is too strong and will damage them. Use a garden hose for windows that are too high to reach and make sure to clean around the trim of the windows that you are able to clean by hand.

Don't stress yourself out about getting your home's exterior ready for winter; you don't have to get too in-depth during fall cleaning. Just worry about getting rid of the past summer's dirt and grime; the hard work can wait till spring.

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