Signs of spring are everywhere in the Austin area! For many local homeowners, that means it’s time to dive headfirst into spring cleaning. Tidying up the outside of your home is just as important as neatening the inside, so this year, add these landscaping ideas to your spring-cleaning checklist. Not only will you seriously boost your curb appeal, but you’ll also get to spend some extra hours outside in this glorious spring weather!

 

Spruce up the street side of your fence

Curb appeal starts at the curb, so make sure the side of your fence that faces the street makes a good impression. This is a perfect place to plant perennials and spring bulbs to give you an extra splash of color. A well-arranged planting on the outside of your fence creates a sense of depth and can actually make your lawn appear larger! If you don’t have a fence around your front yard, now is a good time to think about adding one, as it’s a fairly simple DIY project that adds a picturesque charm.

 

Create a picture-perfect porch

Even a tiny front porch can be an asset if you dress it up nicely. A few well-placed flower pots with colorful blooms go a long way – just be sure the arrangement doesn’t block the view of your door or make it hard to get up your front steps. Hanging planters are great, too. And remember: Spring is hummingbird season in the Austin area, so hang a feeder to attract some of these colorful little birds to your property.

Seed and mulch

Spring is the time to assess your lawn and identify bare spots or brown grass left by the previous winter. Sprinkle a little grass seed to liven up areas where your lawn is struggling, and replenish the mulch around trees and shrubs.

Impress with your entryway

The front door should be the focal point of your home’s exterior, so make sure it doesn’t turn people away. Give it a fresh coat of paint in a rich vibrant hue –making sure the color doesn’t clash with the rest of your house – and spruce it up with a spring-themed wreath or other decoration. If your doorknob is starting to look a little worse for wear, why not replace the hardware and add a new knocker?

Don’t forget the backyard

The front of your home might be the first thing people see, but your backyard is also important. It should project a feeling of comfort, fun and privacy all at once. Make sure the grass is healthy and green, keep your trees healthy, maintain the fence and do your best to minimize backyard clutter.

Check windows and siding

A good cleaning will make your windows and siding shine. Use a hose with a sprayer attachment to get rid of all the grime, cobwebs, dead grass and other debris left from winter, then check for chipping paint and touch up your home’s exterior as needed.

Improve night lighting

Curb appeal doesn’t end when the sun goes down! A well-lit porch and walkway will make your home appear warm and inviting during the evening hours. If you have a single porch light, talk to an electrician about improving your outdoor ambience. A few solar lights along your walkway and front steps are a quick fix to give you a little extra illumination.

Spring is the perfect time to boost your curb appeal with these easy exterior home improvement ideas. To learn more about homes in the Austin area, contact Clark Wilson Builder today!