Dry weather DIY

The cold may not be the nicest weather to work in, but soon moisture and heat will come back around - and they could wreak havoc on those seemingly forgotten parts of our homes. Prioritising your focus on not getting thrown by the frost we’ve been experiencing could save you majorly over the next few months.

With winter at its midpoint, it would be wise to capitalise on the lack of wet weather to prepare for the wet, hot months that will soon follow.

Not only do you need to apply yourself to making sure that that you use the dry season to your advantage, but you also need to use the time to make sure outdoor architecture, furniture and fixtures are protected once wetter weather comes around.

From inside and outside home improvements to decluttering ideas, we’ve included some of the most pressing things you need to check off your spring home maintenance checklist.

Below, you’ll find some handy hints and homemaker secrets that will ensure you and your home come out of winter prepped and ready for the hot, wet and humid weather that lies in wait.

Reseal exterior woodwork

Wooden decks, fences, railings, trellises, pergolas and other outdoor structures will last longer and stay in better condition if they’re stained or resealed every year or two. Take this opportunity to make any needed repairs to woodwork as well.

Winterise deck furniture

To keep your metal deck furniture free from rust and wear all winter long, reach for the petroleum jelly if your budget’s bitten the dust. Just apply a thin layer (especially in areas where the furniture tends to rust) after cleaning the surface with simple soap and water.

Mitigating mould

Bathrooms can suffer from mould problems in the winter. As the mould is caused by warm, moist environments, it can actually be a year-round problem in a steamy bathroom. However, as the cold weather means people are less likely to leave their bathroom windows open to ventilate the room properly, it’s a more common problem now.

Keeping on top of mould and clearing it up when it appears helps, but keep in mind that it may soon take a toll on your paint.

Get your pipes sorted

Outdoor pipes are at risk during winter. They’ll often partially freeze, which can cause blockages and burst pipes. Sometimes, if it’s really cold, even your indoor pipes are at risk of freezing! You can insulate your pipes by fitting lagging over them. Lagging is basically insulation that keeps your pipes just above freezing. It’s usually made from either foam or insulating foil and is relatively cheap – it’s certainly cheaper than a burst pipe! This is especially important if you have an outdoor tap on your home.

Getting the guck out

Having your gutters and downspouts cleaned early in the season can help prevent damage from the approaching seasonal rains. Also, please do remember to take notes of where your downspouts collect to make sure they are installed properly and water is diverted away from the house so that no water collects around your foundation.

This brings us to the bite

The best way to prevent mosquitos around your home is simply by getting rid of any standing water. Walk around your property (and peek at your neighbour’s). If you see an area where water stands, fix it, tip it, get rid of it or maintain it regularly.

Check your conditioning

Just because it gets cool doesn’t mean it’s working efficiently. To get the longest life out of your air con and keep it running as efficiently as possible, change the filters at least once each season, and hire a licenced professional to service the equipment before the heat arrives.

Colouring your corner

After you ensure there is no significant exterior damage to your home, the next thing on your spring home checklist should be to touch up anywhere that might need a spot of paint. Repainting areas of siding or trim isn’t only something to do during a renovation. This is a simple task you can tackle any time of year, but especially before the coming storms arrive.

Look for spots like exterior panelling, siding and window and door trim that need a little painting or polish. Make sure that the paint you use matches the colour of your home's exterior by consulting the experts at Neo Paints.