Pre-Spring Projects for the Home

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

March 20th is the first day of spring. It may be hard to imagine that spring is actually only a few weeks away if you are still cranking up the heat in your home and shoveling snow from your driveway. But, it won’t be much longer before old man winter will be sent packing. While you are waiting for the arrival of spring, here are seven things you can begin to think about to get your home ready for spring.

1. Windows – Your windows take center stage once the weather changes from cold to warm. Begin thinking about whether you will wash them yourself or hire someone to tackle the job. If you choose to hire someone, you’ll want to make an appointment now before they become booked solid. Consider what window treatments you will use. Undoubtedly, you will want to switch to a lighter fabric and different color value that is more conducive to springtime.



2. Carpets / Flooring – Our floors take a real beating during the winter months. Whether you have carpet or hard wood, or whatever, chances are your floors could use some tender loving care. Again, will you tackle the job yourself or hire someone? And, once your floors are cleaned, consider using runners to keep the dirt from foot traffic to a minimum.



3. Outdoor living area – It doesn’t matter what the square footage of your outdoor space is; what matters is that you make the most of it. Take a look at your outdoor furniture and determine what kind of care is necessary before you use them or if you need to start fresh with new pieces. If you have a fence, what kind of maintenance does it require? Who will cut and take care of your grass this year? If you have a wood deck, does it need to be stained?



4. Gardens – Boost your curb appeal. Begin planning your color scheme and the flowers you will plant this spring. Read up on the different flowers and plants and do something different this year.



5. Roof / Gutters – Ice (which can cause damage to roofs and leaks in the home), leaves, you name it, it could be up there. Hire a professional to clean them. This will help your curb appeal a great deal, too.



6. Foyer – The foyer of the home tends to be neglected and used as a pass through space. But, during warm weather, people linger a little longer. So, be sure to enhance the look of your foyer. Resist using it as a place simply to drop keys, mail, and take off shoes.



7. Entertainment Area – Company’s coming. People are just more social during warmer months. Is your entertainment area inviting? Maybe now would be a good time to de-clutter and organize the space.


These are just a few projects you can begin before spring. Instead of looking longingly at the calendar wishing spring would hurry up, take this time to think about these projects so that when spring does arrive your home will be ready.

©Rena Bullard 2010
http://www.redecoratingbyrena.com