If you’re anything like me, you’ve been dreaming all winter about sitting outside in the evenings, enjoying warm weather. Now that spring is rolling in, it is time to get your deck or patio ready for all the time you’ll spend on it. You’ll need to spend some time cleaning, organizing, and giving it a fresh touch.
Start at the bottom
The floor has taken a beating over the winter months. Start by clearing the deck or patio of all chairs, tables and potted plants. Take a broom to it, brushing off any dirt or leaves. After the loose debris is cleared away, you’ll want to use soap and water for a thorough cleaning. If you suspect mold has set in, use a bleach mix to clean the surface. large push broom is a good choice for this step. This is a good time to check the condition of your wood deck. It may need a fresh stain or power wash.
Get Cleaning
You don’t want to miss a thing in this step. Go through your collection of patio furniture, wiping away the dust and cleaning all nooks and crannies. Pick a dry day so you can let your pieces dry in the sun. Check the condition of chair cushions and pillows. If any show signs of mold, get rid of them and buy new. Just a few bright pillows can make a huge impact on the look of your deck or patio.
Put it All Together
Making your deck or patio look inviting and put together is simple. Think about how you’ll use the space. Do you want to entertain all spring and summer? Maybe you need space for your kid’s toys. Pick furniture and storage that works for your needs. A toy box makes sense to hide the balls and bats, but you don’t have to sacrifice your style. There are plenty of nice, well-built storage boxes that double as benches. Put your potted plants on a plastic tray to avoid water leaking and causing mold. Add string lighting or lanterns for a warm touch.
