We’re only a few weeks out from summer in Brisbane, which means we’re gearing up to spend endless days outdoors!
Not only does cleaning up and in some cases, making improvements to your outdoor space make it more welcoming, but it can be beneficial for the resale value of your home.
Here are a few tips and tricks for revamping your outdoor space to get it summer-ready.
Wooden Deck
It’s important to consider the materials used in your outdoor space. Different materials will require different levels of care and treatment.
Commonly seen in Queenslander homes, wood is a standard material used to build decks and outdoor areas. From foot traffic to constant exposure to outdoor elements, wood can see a lot of wear and tear if not maintained.
To prolong the lifespan of your deck, start by giving it a good scrub when required. Water and soap will do the trick, but deck cleaning supplies are also available from hardware stores. Be sure to remove any stains and residue on the deck and look out for any potential lifts of the nails, cracks, or decaying wood during this process. If you spot any wear and tear that needs attention, contact a professional.
Alongside cleaning your deck, deck sealing is a critical part of maintenance as it protects the wood from rain, sun exposure, dew, and general use. Every two or three years, hire a professional to reseal your deck.
Lastly, restain the deck when necessary. The colour of your deck will fade over time, so when resealing your deck, be sure to restain it too. Oil-based deck stains are an excellent choice as they last longer, stain gradually and do not require as frequent maintenance as other stains on the market.
Concrete and tiled courtyards
Used to create the perfect outdoor space, concrete and tiles are common materials used in outdoor courtyard spaces.
Concrete is a very sturdy material, is more durable to the elements and requires less maintenance than materials like wood. Whilst a more hardwearing material, concrete should still be maintained regularly. To keep your concrete looking fresh, simply clean it with soap and water and scrub with a firm-bristled broom. If you’re looking for a heavier-duty clean, consider using a pressure washer. You can purchase these from a hardware store, or there are companies that you can hire them from.
Cleaning outdoor tiles is relatively similar to cleaning concrete, however, avoid cleaning your tiles with abrasive materials such as steel wool. Abrasive materials may damage the finish of the tile, leaving the surface more vulnerable to staining, cracking, and pitting.
When cleaning tiles, be sure to also clean the grout joints and remove any buildup of mould and grime. There are materials on the market that make grout cleaning easy. To protect your grout for years to come, you may also need to reseal your grout. For the best seal, reach out to a professional.
Grass Patches
There’s nothing better than a freshly mowed lawn! Keeping your lawn and any grass areas in your yard maintained is vital for the warmer months, especially when Brisbane is predicted to experience a few wet days this summer. To prepare your lawn for the warmer months, read more here.
Add the finishing touches
Now that your outdoor surfaces are looking tidy and are feeling fresh, elevate your outdoor space with finishes to impress. From adding an outdoor seating setting to including warm and welcoming lighting, spending time outdoors is so much more inviting when you’ve got the right finishing touches! Read how to warm up your outdoor entertainment area here.
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