I love caulk.
“Men build too many walls and not enough bridges.” ― Joseph Fort Newton
Welcome to 2023, folks!
Dear reader, I must confess: today’s entry is not going to be all fun and games. No, there will not be any waxing poetic, nor will there be fun science experiments. Today’s entry is going to be a rather dry one. That’s right, it’s all about drywall. I know that looks like a pun, but this is a serious discussion; any fun word play is purely coincidental.
Some may ask, ‘If walls could talk, what would they say?’ but the truth is our walls speak all the time to anyone who listens; they speak of furniture being moved, of children rough housing, of pet ownership; they speak of old smoking habits, either current or long since kicked. They speak of carelessly spilled drinks, they speak of old pictures, of that time that Bill thought it was a great idea to shoot a bb-gun in my living room (not cool, Bill!)
How anyone thought this was a good idea at the time is beyond me.
But frequently, we would frankly prefer our walls kept their mouths shut. Working under the theory that ‘snitches get stitches’, we then must make sure to keep our walls in good repair to ensure their silence (that’s what that phrase means, right?)
For some of the lighter damage, we may just need to expertly apply some spackle (making sure to use a minimal amount and keep it completely even with the surrounding wall) and doing a spot paint job; a great solution for those little nail holes, or even minor cracks.
Speaking of paint jobs, of course, you don’t need to wait for damage to occur to give a room a fresh coat of paint; stick with the same color and make a room feel fresh, or change things up to create a brand new mood and atmosphere. I know my sleep actually improved when I went with a soft blue for my bedroom.
But there may come a time when you see some more severe damage. Maybe the nephews were over, and a mysterious hole about the size and shape of an 11 year old suddenly appears in your wall. Maybe you had some water damage as a result of a little flooding. Things like this may require some new drywall be installed.
Why does no one ever look HAPPY to live in the 19th century?
Let’s talk about drywall for a minute. But first, let us imagine if you will a world without drywall at all. A world in which lath and plaster was king. This was the world before Augustine Sackett (a Civil War veteran of the Union Navy) created what he called a ‘Sackett Board’. A simple design, it layered paper and plaster of Paris (calcined gypsum to those who prefer the sciencey names) to create a sheet of ready made wall. And with this, installing walls became a much easier task. It wasn’t until the rationing of available lumber in the 1940s, however, that drywall became the staple that it is today in the building of homes.
And thanks to Sackett, fixing your more damaged walls doesn’t need to be an inconvenience. Of course, the extent of the damage to your wall is something you’ll want your Bright Star Handyman to assess; there are times that surface imperfections are actually just the tip of the iceberg. But we are here to help no matter how minor or major the issue is. Just contact us here.
"Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home." ~Edith Sitwell
“Set wide the window. Let me drink the day.” ~ Edith Wharton
HOA Guidelines: Renovation Do’s and Don’ts
Living in a home that’s part of a homeowner association (HOA) has both benefits and drawbacks. One of the drawbacks is that when you want to renovate your home, the HOA determines what you can and cannot do. These rules are spelled out in your HOA’s governing documents, commonly called CC&Rs (covenants, conditions & restrictions).
If you go ahead with a renovation that violates your HOA’s CC&Rs, the HOA board can force you to stop the work or redo it completely. This is expensive and a real headache. You could also be fined for noncompliance. Avoid the hassle and unnecessary expense by following your HOA’s rules, as well as our list of do’s and don’ts.
Best Home Improvement Projects for Fall
We all have our to-do lists, but it goes without saying that some tasks are better left to the professionals. It's tempting to want to do everything ourselves, but it's also imperative that any home improvement projects that we do take on are done correctly to avoid a DIY disaster and the potential long-term consequences that often accompany them. Fall tends to be a popular time of the year to carry out many of these home improvement projects, as we all want to take care of business before the cold, winter months arrive. And if you're hesitant to take on a project yourself or aren't confident the outcome will be a successful one, we're here to help. Here's a look at some of the best home improvement projects to carry out during the fall months and why they are particularly important at this time of the year:
Great Home Improvement Projects for Fall
Caulk Your Windows and Doors
With winter and cold temperatures fast approaching, eliminating drafts or any areas where heat can escape the property is important. That's why it's always a good idea to caulk around your windows and doors. Doing so can keep your home more comfortable during the cold weather months, help reduce your energy bill, and help pests and other critters from entering your home.
Install New Insulation
Insulation can help your home retain heat during the cold weather months and cool air during the warm weather months. It can also help prevent condensation, reduce your energy bills and reduce outside noise. Whether you need new insulation in your attic or within wall cavities, we'll make sure it's done correctly so you can maximize your return on investment and keep your home more comfortable.
Power Wash Your Home's Exterior
Give your home that nice new shine this fall by having us power wash your brick and siding. A good, thorough power washing helps remove stains and mildew, and helps enhance your curb appeal. When done correctly, it can even eliminate the likelihood of repairs that you'll need to make down the line due to rot and decay.
Seal Coat Your Driveway
The regular freeze and thaw cycle that winter weather tends to bring with it can have some major long-term consequences on your driveway, potentially compromising its structural integrity and resulting in cracks and chips. It's why applying a thorough seal coating is often a smart thing to do during the fall months, as it can prevent water from penetrating the pavement and causing harm. A good seal coating can also help reduce repair costs and make your driveway look better.
Repair Water Damage
Did your finished basement leak last spring or summer? Did a pipe burst inside a wall cavity and create a mess of the drywall? Are parts of your wood deck or porch rotting? Water damage is a serious threat to the structural integrity of your home, and subsequent mold growth that stems from it can wreak havoc on your family. Whether you need some drywall replaced or new wood beams on your back deck, we can handle that so the structural integrity is restored and any mold is gone for good.
Contact Us Today
While it can be tempting to try to perform many of the fall home improvement projects on your to-do list yourself, the last thing you want is a DIY disaster on your hands. That's where it pays to pass off any work to a professional, qualified handyman - and that's where we can help. We'll repair, replace and install whatever it is that you need. For more information on our handyman services and how we can help check items off your to-do list this fall, contact us today.
Best Flooring Types: Compare Top Materials & Options for Each Room
Your choice of flooring is one of the most important decisions you have to make when it comes to improving your home. The material is an integral part of your interior design. It also determines use, difficulty of installation and maintenance. Before you select, it’s wise to educate yourself on what’s available as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each.
How to Choose Flooring
Room: Some types, like carpet or hardwood, aren’t ideal for every space
Family Situation: Young children or pets need spill-proof and scratch-resistant flooring
Budget: Price varies widely, so you need to know what you can afford
Installation Requirements: Some materials need an underlayment or pad, which may cost extra
Style: Certain types work better than others to create the right aesthetic
Return on Investment (ROI): Higher cost or quality often means a better long-term investment
Fall 2020 Home Decor Trends
Curious as to what's hot and what's not this fall in terms of home decor? We've got the trending details for every room in your home in this post to help inspire your seasonal revamp. From the kitchen to the basement, we'll take a closer look at what's trending in and what's trending out. And if you're looking to hire a handyman to assist you with any of your home improvement efforts this fall (or at any time of the year), we're standing by and ready to help you make any sort of update.
Home Decor Fall 2020 Trends: Room-by-Room
Let's go by room-by-room for a closer look at some of the hottest home decor trends for fall 2020. Here's a look:
Kitchen
While previous years saw homeowners experiment with a lot of different materials in kitchens, trending this fall is a return to simplicity. We're talking cabinetry with minimal detail, large backsplashes, and clean slab counters. Another trend is less of an open concept kitchen and more of a standalone one, meaning that kitchens won't transition so seamlessly or extend into other living spaces.
Bedrooms
Though we're in rapid eye movement for most of the time spent in our bedrooms, the fact of the matter is that we still spend a lot of time in the bedroom itself. And you'd be surprised to see how neglected some bedrooms are. In fall 2020, we're seeing a return to simplicity in the bedroom. Bedrooms are increasingly becoming a place for homeowners to unplug and relax - and this is evidenced in the removal of TVs and an investment in high-quality bedding, soft lighting, and calming colors. House plants are also becoming popular in bedrooms, as they help improve the indoor air quality of the environment.
Living Room
Sleek and modern interiors - that's the best way to describe how living rooms are trending this fall. But even with a focus on this type of style, functionality and comfort should still be a priority. Much like how the kitchen is trending back to being its own room of the house, so too are living rooms. And it's this individual space that can help lend to enhanced comfort and functionality.
Bathroom
The bathroom continues to be an area where homeowners can flex their creative muscles, and this year's fall 2020 trends are evidence of that. So what's trending in the bathroom this season? Unconventionally shaped tile - such as that in hexagonal and scallops styles, for one. Freestanding tubs are another hot commodity if your bathroom has the space to accommodate them. In terms of materials, marble and brass are popular.
Basements
While the man cave, home gym, guest suite or sports bar remain popular options for how to finish your basement, what's trending now is creating a basement that becomes a true extension of the rest of your home. Think of it as a second living room or family room if you will. Whether it presents an additional play area for the kids or another part of the home to lounge on the couch and catch up on your TV shows, the finishing, flooring, colors, and style remain similar in a basement that aims to become just another room of the home.
Contact Us Today
Whether you're a fan of the fall 2020 trends that we've mentioned above or just want to do your own, unique thing within your home, we're here to help. If you're looking to hire a handyman that you can count on for your more extensive room revamp, contact us today to set up a consultation. From interiors to exteriors, we offer a wide range of services to take your home improvement projects from concept to reality.
Updating Your Home on a Budget
If you're an avid DIYer, you're already on your way to saving money. But with the right planning, you can transform the feel of a whole room with a single project that only costs you a few hundred bucks.
Easy Home Upgrades You Can Do on a Budget
Pick from our round-up of value-boosting upgrades that all come in under the $500 mark—some well under. Not only will they be soft on your wallet now, but some of these will even save you money in the future. Check out our easy home improvement ideas below.
Top 5 Updates for Your Bedroom
Although you spend most of the hours in your bedroom asleep, itʼs still important to update this part of your home from to time. A few easy changes can help you create a more comfortable and cozy environment so that you get a great nightʼs sleep on a regular basis. Keep the following ideas for a bedroom update in mind.
Paint Your Bedroom
Putting a new coat of paint on the walls might be all you need to give your bedroom a fresh look. Whether youʼre going with a similar color as what you have now or trying an entirely different tone, painting is a simple way to update your bedroom. Since this can be a time-consuming project, consider having professionals paint your bedroom for you. Professionals can handle the entire project from start to finish, including preparing the walls beforehand, which helps ensure that you end up with an expertly painted bedroom.
Get a New Floor
If the floor in your bedroom looks outdated or if itʼs getting worn, think about putting in a new one. Investing in a new floor can improve your bedroomʼs appearance while also making giving you a better surface to walk around on. Whether you choose hardwood flooring, laminate floors, or another material, your new floor can add visual appeal to your bedroom. Having professionals install your new floor is a great way to make sure itʼs done properly, so you have a solid, even surface to walk on.
Add a Bathroom
Home projects for your bedroom donʼt necessarily have to focus on the sleeping part of this room. Adding a bathroom offers a highly effective way to make your main bedroom more practical and even enhance its appearance. Having a bathroom installed inside your bedroom gives you more privacy and convenience overall, such as when youʼre getting ready in the morning. Professional contractors can help you come up with the right design for your new bathroom and help you tie it into the rest of your bedroom in terms of its style and design.
Install Shelving
Whether you need more storage in your bedroom or want somewhere to display items, consider putting in new shelving. Shelving is available in a wide range of designs and styles, so you can choose the ideal kind for your bedroom. You can have shelves installed to store items in an out of the way corner or area in your bedroom. Another option is to have shelving installed near your bed for practical purposes, such as to store books you might read before bed. You can also have shelves installed in highly visible areas, so you can place decorative items on them for interior design purposes.
Get New Wood Trim
If your wood trim is looking worn, updating it can go a long way toward improving the overall look of your bedroom. Think about having professionals remove your existing wood trim and install brand new trim. You can choose wood trim that creates a contrasting yet pleasant effect compared to the walls and floor, or go with wood trim that blends in more with these surrounding surfaces.
Giving your bedroom a new look and feel doesnʼt have to end up costing you thousands of dollars. Simple home projects like the ones mentioned above can make your bedroom much more comfortable and appealing. Please contact Bright Star Handyman Service today to schedule your free quote for a bedroom update.
https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/colors/g1287/colorfulbedroom-decorating-ideas/ https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/best-bedroom-flooring https://www.houselogic.com/by-room/bedroom-closet/evaluate-your-housemaster-suite-addition/ https://www.hgtv.com/design/design-blog/design/floating-shelves-done-right https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/9-ways-to-dress-up-a-room-withmolding-46899
Easy Weekend DIY Projects
As the days grow chillier, we are reminded of the upcoming holidays, a busy time that involves entertaining and hosting company. Why not give your home a refresher before the hoopla begins? Your guests will appreciate an inviting space, and you’ll enjoy showing off the fruits of your labor!
Today we make it easy on you by rounding up 10 simple weekend home improvement projects. We’re talking simple, folks. A coat of paint here and there. Some rearranging. A few strategic decorating decisions. Nothing requiring power tools or a manual! And chances are, once you get started, you may not be able to stop at just one DIY project!
Read more….
3 Reasons You Should Book A Free Consultation With Us Today
Selecting the right home renovation company isn't as easy as you may think. Yes, there are a lot of factors that going into hiring the firm you want to work with on your next big home project. And it's important to ensure that you're comfortable with the contractor that you hire, that they have experience building what you've selected them for and that they provide honest, quality work for a fair price. It's harder to find a quality, ethical contractor than you may think - but at Bright Star Handyman Services, we strive to make your choice an easy one. Here's a closer look at why you should book a free consultation with us today:
3 Reasons to Book A Free Consultation With Us Today
1. We're Local and Experienced
As a local, family-owned company, we don't treat you like a customer - we consider you an extension of our family. And like all good family, we look out for one another. Bright Star Handyman Services has been in business since 1998 and we currently serve the Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey areas. But our handymen don't just work in the area, we live in the area too. We know all about the problems that many homes face and we're always quick to find the problem and resolve it. What's more is that we can arrive on scene for more urgent repairs or needs quickly. Perhaps most important of all, we're transparent in everything we find and everything we do, which can help put you at ease and offer peace of mind that the job will be performed right. Browse our long list of customer reviews to get a better sense of how we work from the people that know us best, our current partners.
2. We Can Do Just About Anything
From basements to attics, ceilings to flooring installation, cement repairs to porch decks and railings - and everything in between - we do it all. From bedrooms to bathrooms, front porches to backyards, walls to ceilings - we do it all. Whether it's repairing, replacing or installing, we'll do it. No job is too small or too big, and our wide range of specialties means that you'll never have to work with multiple contractors or handymen to take care of things around your home again. We'll say it one more time, we do it all - and as your one-stop handyman shop, we look forward to hearing from you about your home projects and what we can knock off your to-do list.
3. It's Free - You Have Nothing to Lose
Perhaps the most convenient reason why you should book a consultation with us is because it's 100 percent free! That's right, the only thing that you'll have to lose from talking to us about your next project is the few minutes that you'll spend explaining it to us. By contacting us or visiting our website, we'll simply ask you to share some details about your project and then we'll be in touch to discuss it further. While we certainly hope you'll continue the conversation with us beyond this initial consultation if you don't, you aren't out anything - and we wouldn't have it any other way.
Contact Us Today
For more information on Bright Star Handyman Services and to schedule your free consultation with us, contact us today. As a locally owned and operated, and licensed and insured business, we're proud to turn properties into houses and houses into homes in the Philadelphia and South New Jersey areas.
Contact us today to learn more about how our handyman services can be put to good use for you. We're standing by!
What to Look For When Buying an Old House
We love old homes and all the charm and character they bring – the wood built-ins, pocket doors and exposed brick. But we also need to be aware of the issues we can run into when purchasing one. Not all problems are dealbreakers, but they are important to keep top of mind when considering living in an old house.
9 Problems with Old Houses
Age is subjective when it comes to houses, but an unwritten rule is that if a home is 50 years or older it’s considered “old” and a home built before 1920 is considered “antique.” There are many factors that can contribute to the condition your potential dream home may be in, and thankfully most can be caught during the home inspection phase of the buying process.
To help you do your due diligence before getting your heart set on a classic home, here are the most common problems to look for.
1. Foundation Issues
Foundation issues in old homes are very common and must be addressed in order to keep the home livable. They can range from smaller settlement cracks to damaged support footings, which can be extremely costly.
Five Home Improvement Trends To Watch In 2020
Do you track the home improvement industry? If you do, but didn’t make it to the Home Improvement Research Institute’s HIRI Summit last month, you can still benefit from the top takeaways shared by thought leaders presenting there.
The nonprofit trade organization is made up of global building products manufacturers, large chain retailers and allied entities in the supply chain and media. Here are five of the top trends they discussed, along with insights on what they might mean for you.
1. Luxury projects are slowing
“Discretionary luxury remodeling is slowing, with the five product categories facing most severe headwinds: High end cabinets, cladding, flooring, roofing and dimensional lumber,” observed Todd Tomalak with John Burns Real Estate Consulting.
This can provide opportunities for emerging quality value brands in the kitchen and bath remodeling spheres, where clients have more access to consumer-facing information. For example, features like soft close doors and drawers, sizing customization, and organizing accessories, once limited to semi-custom and custom cabinetry, are becoming more widely available in more affordable brands.
Kitchen Updates: How Often to Replace Appliances and Cooking Supplies
Original Article Written By: Angie Bersen
Nothing good lasts forever, and that includes the appliances and equipment that you may have already replaced during recent kitchen updates. While your kitchen will look gorgeous when everything is brand new and state-of-the-art, that shiny new look doesn’t last forever. Sooner or later, you’ll need to invest in replacements or repairs to keep everything up to par.
When contemplating kitchen updates, it’s important to understand that even if you think functionality is still intact, there may be issues lurking under the surface. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining the state of your kitchen.
When Do You Need a New Dishwasher?
Replace As Needed – Every 10 Years at the Latest
For many households, dishwashers are indispensable, providing a valuable way to reduce post-meal tasks and improve overall cleanliness. However, dishwashers get old, break, and need replacements during kitchen updates, just like any other appliance.
Modern dishwashers are designed to last around 10 years, but if you start seeing these signs of wear and tear issues before that point, it may be time to invest in a repairman or a new dishwasher:
Rust on the exterior that can indicate a water leak that isn’t necessarily visible
Standing water in your dishwasher, indicating a serious clog
A door that doesn’t properly latch or lock
Cold dishes following a cycle
Cracks or damage to the door or frame
Leaking water on the floor under the unit
Dishes that are spotty or dirty after a wash cycle
In some cases, a repair or parts replacement can fix these issues, but most of the time, a full replacement is the best option. Replacing a dishwasher will increase energy efficiency and improve the quality of your kitchen cleaning endeavors.
How Long Do Refrigerators Last?
Replace As Needed – Every 10 Years at the Latest
It’s hard to imagine living in a modern home without a refrigerator, which is why prompt repairs or replacements are so important. When refrigerator parts are on the fritz, it can cause plenty of issues, including ruined food, wasted money, and the risk of bacteria development, which can cause food poisoning such as salmonella.
The average lifespan of a refrigerator is about 10 years, but these signs can be indicative of a need for a timely replacement:
Excessive condensation; in some cases, this can be remedied by a new door seal
A motor that runs too hot
Food that spoils faster than normal
A freezer that is far too cold and leaves an ice buildup on items or causes freezer burn
Excess energy use with no changes in habits
A loud motor
Uneven cooling, including freezing within the fridge space
It’s not uncommon for attachments such as ice machines or water filters to break after three to five years. If you live somewhere with a hot climate, it’s crucial to stay up to date with these smaller repairs. However, if your refrigerator has broken parts and kitchen updates are a priority, a full replacement may be the best option.
When Is a New Stove Essential?
Replace Every 10 Years at the Latest
Cooking is virtually impossible without a functional stove or oven, but this stable kitchen appliance doesn’t last forever. If you are in need of a new range, these tips can guide your decision between replacing and repairing.
Like most kitchen appliances, a lifespan of 10 years or more isn’t uncommon. However, if you’re seeing signs of trouble and your stove is more than a decade old, replacement is most likely the right choice, especially if:
The glass is cracked
One or more burners won’t light, or won’t heat up properly
The oven heats unevenly, with particular areas heating faster than others
Preheating takes longer than usual
Burners are uneven
There is a strong smell of gas in gas units, indicating a potential leak
Even if a repair is possible, it may not be worth the investment. If the cost of the repair is 50 percent or more of the cost of the unit, it’s time to take on something new.
Timelines for Countertops and Cabinet Installation
Update Every 10-15 Years
Despite common perception, counters and cabinets aren’t meant to last forever. After excessive use, counters wear down. Eventually, cupboard doors don’t close properly and shelves begin to buckle and bend. Every 10 to 15 years is generally the recommended time frame for a full kitchen remodel. Whether the functionality of your kitchen isn’t meeting your needs, or you simply want an updated look, it may be worth considering a kitchen remodel.
Countertop Replacement
While the functionality of cabinets can actively disturb storage and the protection of your cooking utensils, countertops rarely interfere with function, no matter how old they are. However, the look and feel can decrease the value of your cooking space, and it’s possible for cracks to hold bacteria before any kitchen updates. If your counter is cracked, stained beyond repair, has any signs of structural problems, or simply looks outdated, it’s time for a countertop replacement.
Cabinet Installation
Unless your cabinets are significantly newer than your countertops, it’s recommended to replace both at the same time, with cabinet installation taking priority. When cabinets are installed first, you can be sure new countertops will fit around or on your new cupboards and will not be damaged during the process.
Replacing Microwaves and Small Appliances
Replace As Needed – Every 5 Years at the Latest
Unlike large appliances like refrigerators, stoves, ovens, and dishwashers, most smaller appliances won’t make it to a decade of life. As such, you may need to replace things like microwaves on a more accelerated basis.
Microwave
Your microwave should hold up for at least five years, but inexpensive models may only give you a year or two. Signs like smoke, sparks, burning smells, improperly cooked food, suspicious sounds, and trouble with controls often mean it’s time for a replacement.
Microwaves can be repaired, but the cost is often not worth it. When in doubt, a new microwave is generally a better deal, with prices averaging around $100 or less–a steal compared to larger appliances.
Toasters
Toasters and toaster ovens can be important for convenience and easy cooking, particularly for meals that don’t necessitate the time commitment preheating the oven requires. However, like microwaves, these items aren’t meant to last longer than around five years of regular use, either. If you see sparks or smoke, experience uneven cooking, or smell strong metallic scents, it’s time for kitchen updates and potentially a replacement.
Stand Mixers
Stand mixers can make baking fast and simple, but they’re big investments. As such, most people are hesitant to drop cash on a replacement. Little things, like worn gears, may require simple parts repairs that you can do yourself, but bigger problems, like cracked stands, power troubles, or strange smells, usually entail a new unit.
Before jumping the gun, be sure to check the warranty. Some units may come with long-term protection that you can use to minimize or eliminate the cost or a replacement.
How Long Do Spices Last?
Between 1-5 Years
Spices are a staple in any kitchen, but contrary to the habits of standard home cooks, spices don’t last forever. Even though spices are generally dried and intended to be preserved, they do come with an expiration date. Here are a few guidelines for how long spices last:
Whole spices should be replaced every four years
Ground spices should be replaced every two to three years
Herbs should be replaced every one to two years
Spices don’t actually spoil and are unlikely to make you sick, but they do lose flavor and effectiveness, compromising the food you cook.
Common cooking oils, like olive oil or canola oil, should be replaced every one to two years. In theory, white kosher and sea salt will last indefinitely, but table salt should be replaced every five years.
When to Throw Away Non-Stick Pans
Replace Every 5 Years
Pots and pans, particularly non-stick varieties, do need to be a part of your regularly scheduled kitchen updates. Based on the chemicals used to manufacture the non-stick surface, non-stick pots and pans shouldn’t be used for more than five years. If there are any scratches or the surface begins to peel, replacement should be expedited.
A great kitchen has a lot to offer your quality of life and your diet, but maintaining functionality means proper replacements. From broken appliances to outdated countertops, it’s up to you to keep your kitchen in perfect working order.
Original Article Published by Redfin
Bright Star Handyman Awarded Top 25 Painters in Pennsylvania
Bright Star Handyman Service is a proud recipient of HireHaven’s Top 25 Painters in Pennsylvania list. As a full service handyman company servicing South Jersey & the Philadelphia regions, painting is one of the many home services we offer.
10 Ways to Enhance Your Home’s External Appeal
Outdoor Spring Cleaning
Spring is here, and it’s time to tidy up! Read on for our handy checklist of outdoor spring cleaning ideas.
Windows and Screens
It’s best to clean windows when the sun isn’t out to prevent the cleaner from drying too fast and causing streaks. Be careful on that ladder! In addition, it won’t matter how clean your windows are if your screens are dusty and damaged. Remove your screens and vacuum with an attachment. If they are damaged, screens are fairly inexpensive to replace.
Garden Appeal
It’s amazing how quickly weeds can pop up in the spring – get a head start as soon as they show up. In addition, clear out any dead foliage and prune your shrubs and trees – this will make your garden area more appealing and encourage new growth. After weeding and clearing out old plants, lay down a new layer of mulch and take note of any plants that need to be replaced. Be sure to clean out and re-plant any pots or baskets as well!
Sweep All the Things
It’s not just your floor that needs sweeping! Take a broom to the ceilings and walls of your porches and eaves to clear out dust and cobwebs. Sweep out your garage from all your winter projects and then sweep the driveway and cracks. Replace any caulking in the driveway that may have been damaged over the winter.
Break Out the Furniture
Patio furniture can take a hit during the winter. Wipe down all furniture with a damp cloth and beat the dust out of cushions. Clean or replace rugs and umbrellas if necessary.
Get Ready to Grill
Wipe down the outside of your grill and give the inside a good scrubbing with a steel brush before first use. It’s not uncommon for creatures to take refuge in your grill during the winter, so take care when opening the lid the first time.
A New Life for Doors
Doors are one of those things we always touch but rarely clean. Give your exterior doors a good washing and touch up paint where necessary. For a fun project, repaint your front door a fun color like red or yellow!
Exterior Touch-up
There’s nothing like a hose to clean the exterior of your house! Especially with brick or vinyl siding, using a spray attachment on your hose to wash down the walls can instantly increase curb appeal. Now is a good time to spot-check your roof as well – if gutters or shingles are damaged, it’s time to replace.
Outdoor Lighting
Check your light fixtures – they can accumulate dust and bugs. Replace bulbs if necessary.
Maintain the Fence
Winter can be hard on fences and gates – walk the perimeter of your property and check for areas that require repair. A new coat of stain or paint certainly helps bring life to your property as well.
A New Lawn
Whether you have a lawn in place or you’re thinking of installing one, green grass in your yard adds wonderful curb appeal. Lay fertilizer down before a spring rain to bring new life to your lawn and replace any dead areas with sod.
What other outdoor spring cleaning do you accomplish each year? Tell us in the comments!
82 DIY Ideas for Your Backyard This Spring
Everyone wants their patio or lawn to look its absolute best without spending a fortune, so we've come to your rescue with plenty of beautiful backyard ideas on a budget. Instead of doling out dough on a professional landscape designer, save money and take matters into your own hands with an easy outdoor design project. From DIY fire pits to never-before-seen planters, these tutorials work for big or small spaces so you can easily create the backyard of your dreams.
10 Outdoor-Inspired Accessories For Your Home
There's something about spring that makes me want to spend 22 hours of my day outside. Unfortunately, my apartment has no outdoor space to speak of — sigh — and I don't always have the time or the patience to travel to a park to get my nature fix. So this year, I'm bringing nature to my home by filling it with accessories that evoke the great outdoors. That way, even if I can't make it outside, I'll still get a little mood boost courtesy of my favorite flowers and plants.
These 10 finds are a perfect representation of the beauty you find when you step outside, and while in no way a replacement for fresh air and sunshine, they're sure to bring a smile to any nature lover's face.
Top 5 Things Not to Miss While Spring Cleaning
It’s that time of year where the sun stays out longer and the weather starts to warm. We open our windows and shake out the lingering cobwebs from winter. There are the usual things that we think to clean like floors, floorboards, and vents, but what else? Here are the top 5 things to add to your cleaning list this year!
Windows
Even though you look through your windows every day, they’re easy to miss when cleaning up. The best day to clean your windows is a cloudy one – cleaning on a sunny day can leave streaks when the cleaner evaporates too quickly. Start by dusting your windows so that you’re not just smearing dust around. Next, vacuum your screens using an attachment – there’s nothing worse than cleaning all of your windows only to realize your screens are dirty! Finally, use your cleaner of choice. Pre-moistened wipes, a homemade solution with a microfiber cloth, or a sponge all work well, followed closely by a pass with a squeegee. You’ll love your new clean view!
Lighting
We often don’t think about cleaning our lighting, but you’d be amazed at how much dust gathers in those fixtures! Use a vacuum attachment to clean lamp shades and wipe down the lamp base with a microfiber cloth. Even the light bulb itself may be dusty if you have light bulbs that last a long time. Take a duster to your ceiling fans, chandeliers, and standing lamps as well. Finally, don’t forget to clean your light switches! If you think about it, your switches are touched more often than most anything in your house.
Appliances
From small kitchen appliances to your washing machine, your appliances need a good cleaning every once in a while too. Have a coffee maker? Be sure to clean it inside and out. Does your mixer sit on the countertop? Time to give it a good dusting. For washers and dishwashers, you can find a packet of cleaner in your local store – give those machines a run with a cleaner to prevent mildew and stains. Other appliances, such as your hair dryer, electric toothbrush, and alarm clocks are often neglected in the cleaning process as well. Take a minute to put them through some sanitation.
Cabinets
You’d be surprised how dirty the front of your cabinets can be! Your choice of cleaner will depend on whether your cabinets are wood or painted, but it is definitely worth a thorough wipe down of your kitchen and bathroom cabinets, especially the ones located below sinks. Feeling motivated? Time to wipe down the shelves inside of your cabinets as well, and maybe vacuum out the utensil drawer.
Tools
Your cleaning tools need cleaning too! You’re certainly not sanitizing your home if the mop you’re using is dirty as well. Take a moment to clean the parts of your vacuum, run your mop heads through the washing machine, and replace any sponges or brushes that are worse for wear. Check the dates on your cleaning products as well, and spot test any new cleaning products to ensure that you won’t stain your carpet, flooring, or upholstery.
Feel free to reach out to Bright Star Handyman Service for any larger projects that may arise while you’re spring cleaning. We’re happy to help!