Conservatories

Outdoor Ideas

The seasons can play havoc with the exterior of your house, so don’t ignore maintenance and improvements to keep it in good repair all year round and improve its value.

Get a professional in if you want any hard landscaping or structures for your garden – such as terraces, decking or brickwork. What looks easy on a garden make over programme is usually challenging in reality.

TOP TIP

Allow 10% of your budget to do up the outside – it is not enough for your house to look fantastic on the inside.

TOP TIP

Use natural materials for structures and accessories which weather and blend in well. Wood, stone, terracotta, brick and even metal all work well. “Did you know? A great garden can add £20,000 to your selling price” Andrew Winter, Channel 4’s Selling Houses

SEASONAL CHECKLIST

SPRING

Check, mend and treat fences
Clean algae from paths and patios, repoint and seal joints
Check exterior paintwork and make a painting plan of action
Clean garden furniture

SUMMER

Repaint window frames and woodwork
Replace crumbling pointing
Replace damaged guttering and rusted cast-iron guttering

AUTUMN

Complete exterior painting before damp weather sets in
Check exterior lighting before daylight fades
Check gutters and downpipes for blockages
Clear out the shed – clean, treat and put away furniture

WINTER

Check drains and gulleys and add a drain tidy
Replace damaged locks on sheds and outhouses
Check draught proofing around letterbox, doors, windows
Get in a supply of rock salt for sprinkling on slippery paths conservatory