Summer is here, which means means it’s time to tackle the big outdoor tasks.
The importance of getting work done is especially true in this season of social isolation, when Americans are enjoying their homes’ outdoor spaces more than ever. Outdoor work may require some extra sweat and elbow grease, but these big jobs are a welcome break right now, keeping people busy and outside — and helping them truly appreciate their well-tended green spaces.
For many, outdoor work is a satisfying endeavor, allowing homeowners to take pride in their home and yard, along with the work they put into it, which shows in what people are searching for, posting and sharing online. For example, Pinterest Insights saw an increase of 89 percent in backyard renovation ideas on their website, along with a whopping jump of 658 percent in DIY small patio ideas on a budget, and an impressive 528 percent increase in budget garden inspiration ideas.
Tackle your gutters
It can be a hefty job, but built-up debris must be cleaned out at least twice annually to avoid wet basements, interior leaks, mold growth, rodent infestations and/or displacement of the gutters themselves. Use a sturdy ladder to safely access the edges of your roof, then use a trowel or gutter scoop to remove refuse. Flush out the system using a power washer or a garden hose with a spray attachment. Check for cracks, rust or paint damage and missing attachments, ensure all sections are sloped enough to drain stormwater and replace any sections that can’t be repaired.
Summer is here, and that to-do list won’t take care of itself. Plan now to take on the tasks that will help you and your family make the best possible use of your outdoor spaces in the warm weather.