Use Kitchen Leftovers to Improve Your Garden

After a long winter, the thought of getting outside and enjoying some warm weather and bright sunshine is exciting indeed. You can't wait to get out the lounge chairs and patio tables and start entertaining. Of course, that winter season may have been as hard on your patio as it was on you. Here are a few tips for getting your patio or deck in tip-top shape and ready for whatever plans come your way.

Step 1: Cleaning

Before you even get out the chaise, give your patio or decking a good cleaning. A power washer is great for this, but may not be necessary. Get a nice stiff bristled push broom, some soapy water and a hose, and you're good to go. Give it a good scrubbing, rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before doing any work on it or putting out your furniture.

Step 2: Maintenance

After it's all cleaned up, it's time to make sure it's safe and ready to use. If you have a wood deck, inspect each floorboard and railing for loose nails or rot. These can lead to accidents and injuries. Repair or replace anything that won't stand up to your expected use. Rough wood is another consideration as this can be painful to walk on in bare feet and even cause splinters. One way to correct this is with textured paint that can cover these flaws and give you a smooth finish. They're also a great way to add some color to your outdoor space.

For brick or concrete, look for cracks or settling and uneven pavement that could be a tripping hazard. A little patchwork and leveling now will save you time and money later if the problem gets worse.

Step 3: Check Out The Accessories

Once your foundation is ready to go, take some time to inspect your patio furniture and other accessories. Worn cushions can be uncomfortable and wobbly legs and feet can be dangerous. If you have a patio cover, inspect it for worn spots or tears. These could interfere with the mechanics that open and close it safely. If it's motorized, make sure the mechanism is clean and working properly with no worn wires or missing pieces. Lubricating all the moving parts according to the manufacturer's directions will help you operate it easily and smoothly all summer long. If you find your patio cover has been damaged during the winter months, contact a professional business, like Allied Awning, to replace it with a more durable, permanent cover.

Step 4: Enjoy!

Once you've gotten the cleaning and maintenance out of the way and your patio furniture placed just where you want it, it's time to kick back, put your feet up, grab an ice cold drink and enjoy the fruits of your labors.