Tackle these small tasks with big impact to give your house a mini face-lift. A landscape designer may be able to give you some specific tips to improve
Change Outdoor Bulbs
Clean all light fixtures, and replace burnt-out bulbs with energy-saving CFL bulbs.
Give Your Door Some Love
Restore the luster of your door by polishing the hinges and knobs. Paint or stain the door with a color that stands out, yet also complements the trim and siding. Put out a clean, new welcome mat — and make sure the doorbell works.
Repair the Walkway
Snow and cold can wreak havoc on your walkway. With the warmer weather finally approaching, take this time to patch cracks and replace loose bricks and pavers. Rent a power washer or purchase a chemical treatment to clean up embedded stains in concrete, stone or asphalt.
Plant Foliage and Shrubbery
Strategically placed plants can conceal unattractive aspects of your house or yard. Place large pots or hanging baskets around the stoop or porch. Bushes or hedges can hide air-conditioning units or propane tanks, and flower beds and window boxes will stylize a stark facade. For more recommendations specific to your home enlist the help of an HBA landscape designer.
Prune and Mulch
Prune dead branches, trim back overgrown shrubbery and remove any obstructive plantings. Spread mulch or bark around trees, shrubs and flowers for a weed-free, well-kept look.
Freshen Up Your Outdoor space
Approach your outdoor living space should reflect your lifestyle. There are a wide range of options. Projects can be as simple as spraying a fresh coat of paint on furniture and replacing the cushions to hiring a contractor for anew deck or outdoor kitchen.
Keep It Clean
Sweep the sidewalk and stoop, clear away cobwebs, tighten wobbly railings, and repaint posts and supports.
Clear Gutters
This can save you a lot of money on repair costs. Inspect your downspouts and gutters just before the spring rains start to be sure they’re clear of leaves, tree limbs and other debris that might cause problems later on. Clogging usually occurs at the elbow in a drainage system, where the downspout connects to the gutter. Since this elbow is relatively easy to remove, take it off and inspect for clogging.
