Turn your home into the belle of the block with these dozen exterior fixes—best done while the temperatures are warm
Remember all those outdoor fixup projects you put off last winter, waiting for the warm summer months? Well, summer's here and it's time to think about getting some repairs in while the temperatures are still agreeable. Keeping your home in tip-top shape not only adds to its curb appeal but it saves you money as you ward off more expensive fixes down the road.
But look at it this way: Spend a couple of weekends outside, basking in the beautiful weather, and make sure your home looks fantastic while you can still enjoy its charms. Soon enough, it will be time to pack it up and head inside.
Let the Sunshine In
One of the simplest but most satisfying fixups you can do is to make your windows sparkle and shine, letting in clear summer light.
Fix Up the Front Door
Your front entry is your home's ambassador, signaling to guests if you are friend or foe. If yours is more "War is hell" than "Good to see you, ally," perhaps you need to spruce things up a bit to make it more welcoming.
Get Rid of Rotted Wood
Sometimes a simple spruce up isn't enough, when damage to the wood on your house's exterior is too far gone and rot has set in. Don't worry—using the right tools and materials, you can make rot disappear, and fend off more damage.
Repair the Roof
Get the roof in shape and the gutters functioning before both have to battle rain and snow.
Polish Up Paths and Patios
Don't let another winter wreak havok on your hardscaping. Bring your walkways and entertaining areas into tip-top shape while you can still enjoy them.
Spruce Up Your Exterior
Make your home stand out by brightening up its drab exterior.
Renew Porches and Decks
Fix the decking on your outdoor spaces so they're safer and more inviting for summer and fall entertaining.
Get Fencing in Order
A sagging fence gate or a leaning mailbox can make your house look unloved and unlived-in.
Clean Up the Landscape
Even if you get the house all fixed up, a scraggly yard can ruin the whole effect. Get out the garden gloves and the wheelbarrow, and tidy up that unkempt landscape.
Manicure Your Lawn
It's never too late to go for the greenest turf in the neighborhood.
Get the Sprinklers Working Properly
Summer droughts can get the best of your landscape, no matter how diligent you are with planting and pruning. Make sure your prize-worthy lawn and garden get the water they need in the most efficient way, by feeding them through sprinklers and irrigation.
Take Measures Before it Gets Cold
As much as we love that summer heat, it won't last forever. If you live in a cold-weather climate, now is the time to prep for below-freezing winter days.