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The month of May is worth celebrating. As the days get warmer and sunnier, seasonal chores inside and outside the house seem like less of a chore. Make the most of this energetic month by getting your lawn off to a good start, maintaining outdoor equipment and gear, and improving your home’s curb appeal. In preparation for the summer months ahead, you’ll also want to make sure your fans and air conditioners are ready to go.
1. Prepare your grill.
Get to work cleaning your grill now so you can enjoy a spontaneous barbecue whenever the mood strikes.
- when Cleaning the gas grillBe sure to clear any clogs or obstructions in the burner jets and make sure you have enough propane.
- If you a Charcoal grillClean off any ash or grease.
To de-gunk the grill from top to bottom without inhaling noxious fumes, try non-toxic and biodegradable CitrusSafe Grill and Grate Cleaner. Made-in-the-USA spray was our top performer A test guide to the best grill cleaners.
2. Open your swimming pool for the season.
time for Open your swimming pool When the temperature in your region is a constant 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. May is when most US pool owners should be skimming, Pool shockingAnd adding algaecide, although some have certainly been swimming for a month now given the decent weather in the southern states.
3. Sharpen your lawn mower blade.
A sharp blade not only keeps your lawn mower in tip-top shape, but doing so can actually improve the appearance of your lawn. A dull blade can drag and tear the grass instead of cleaning it. If your lawn is looking ragged, it may mean it’s time to take the mower blades to the hardware store for professional sharpening. If you choose Sharpen the mower blade On your own, you will need a grinder and a little thick Work glovesAs Ironclad Wrenchwork Work Gloves– and a lawn mower blade sharpener, of course.
4. Clean and tune up your air conditioner.
As you’ve prepared your furnace for fall, it’s time to make sure yours Air conditioning units Good work is in order for the warmer months ahead.
- Replace or clean the filter, check the hose connections for leaks and make sure the drain pan is draining freely.
- If you suspect efficiency or performance issues with your air conditioning system, book an appointment with a professional service now.
- Homeowners with Window air conditioners should now be installedBefore the temperature rises.
If you are in the market for a window unit, our A test guide to the best small window air conditioners A good place to start.
5. Paint the exterior of your home.
Nothing affects your home’s curb appeal more than that Painting the exterior of your home. Before you make your choice House paint colorsThere are a few maintenance tasks to take care of first:
- Check the siding for any damaged or rotted boards that you will need to repair before painting.
- Remove and sand any flaking paint so the fresh paint will adhere properly.
- Remove the old pan around windows and doors and reseal them with paintable sealant.
Wondering which paint you should use? our A research guide to the best exterior paint A good place to start.
6. Organize the garage.
A garage is often a multipurpose storage room, but that doesn’t make it a household dumping ground. If yours is full of clutter, take a sunny afternoon to roll the door and Clean out the garage. Make sure you do it right Dispose of old paintBatteries and household chemicals. Check with municipal authorities to determine the correct way to dispose of these and others Hazardous waste material; Your city may even offer to pick them up.
7. Light up the yard.
There are many ways to do it Light up your backyard and garden To make your property safer and more attractive after the sun goes down. Perhaps you need security lighting in your front yard or brighter lighting around the back patio and path. A selection of solar-powered products makes this an easy upgrade: Cooper Solar-Powered LED LanternFor example, cast a festive glow for nighttime entertainment.
You’d never dream of returning used silverware to the kitchen drawer unwashed, but many home gardeners do something just as bad: covered in dirt. Garden tools In garage or shed after use. This habit is more than simply dirty; It can cause major damage to equipment over time. When you are done planting, digging and weeding, Clean garden tools before putting them away. Dry them thoroughly to prevent rust, then clean the blades and handles Linseed oil To make them look and work like new.
9. Swap your window treatments.
However, in warmer weather months, it’s a good idea for them to swap heavy thermal curtains for transparent curtains that let in light and breezes from open windows. NICETOWN white sheer curtain panel are our go-tos). If sheers aren’t your thing, consider swapping in solar screen shades that let in light while blocking excess heat. They will keep you temperature of the houseAnd AC bills, at a comfortable level.
10. Pest-proof Pestio.
Pest prevention for your yard Start now: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so be diligent about dumping rain and runoff from dishes, furniture, and birdbaths. Consider adding Mosquito-repellent plant Like citronella or marigolds in your flower bed. DIYers who enjoy woodworking can also try making one Bat House. These gentle creatures eat swarms of bugs every night, and bring you very close to one Bug-free backyard.
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