Colour & CraftPainters & decorators — Twickenham & London, since 2000 · archive

Spring is Here – Get Your Exteriors Gleaming

Colour & Craft no longer trades under this domain, and none of the painting, decorating, bathroom, handyman or refurbishment work described here can be booked through this site. These pages are kept only as a record of what the company published between 2010 and 2015. If you're looking for a tradesperson now, see where to find help.

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The original article at this address was not preserved in the web archive. Below is new editorial content on the same topic.

Spring's arrival brings mild weather and longer days—ideal conditions for tackling exterior home maintenance. Winter's harsh weather, trapped moisture, and accumulated grime take their toll on your home's exterior, and spring is when you'll most obviously notice it. A thorough spring clean of your home's outside, combined with small maintenance tasks, keeps your property in good condition and prevents costly issues later.

Pressure Washing and Cleaning

Driveways, paths, and patio areas often look dingy after winter, covered in moss, algae, or accumulated dirt. Pressure washing removes this effectively, though care is needed on delicate surfaces. Stone and older brick can be damaged by excessive pressure; wood requires gentle treatment. A competent operator can restore most surfaces significantly, or you might hire a professional pressure-washing service.

Exterior walls benefit from gentle cleaning too. Mould and algae can discolour renders and brickwork. Again, professionals have equipment to clean safely; enthusiastic DIY pressure washing on house walls risks damaging pointing or forcing water into crevices.

Gutter and Drain Maintenance

Winter's fallen leaves accumulate in gutters, blocking water flow and creating damp problems. Clearing gutters thoroughly and checking downpipes run freely is essential spring work. Blocked gutters cause water to overflow, potentially damaging fascias, soffits, and the building fabric beneath.

Plants and Boundaries

Spring is when to cut back overgrown shrubs pressing against the house, which restricts air movement and encourages dampness. Ivy growing on walls looks attractive but can damage mortar and render. Ivy clinging to gutters and soffits prevents maintenance access and harbours moisture. Thoughtful pruning keeps your home comfortable and accessible.

Preparing for Summer

As weather warms, consider what your exterior spaces need for summer use. Garden walls may need repainting; fence panels might need replacing. Small maintenance jobs now prevent larger deterioration later. If you're planning exterior redecoration, spring offers ideal conditions—mild temperature and low rain risk make for good working conditions.

For guidance on exterior colour choices or help with selecting contractors for larger projects, consult our guides.