Spring is the perfect time to assess the damage winter has done to your home's exterior and plan your maintenance schedule. After months of rain, frost, wind, and harsh weather, your property's exterior needs attention. This comprehensive checklist will help you identify what needs cleaning, what you can tackle yourself, and when to call in the professionals.
1. Windows and Glass
✓ What to Look For
Inspect all windows for winter grime, rain spots, mineral deposits, and algae growth on sills and frames. Check frames and sills for water damage, rotting wood, or failing sealant. Look at conservatories and glass doors too—these collect grime quickly.
Why It Matters
Dirty windows reduce natural light, make your home look neglected, and can obscure early signs of frame damage. Built-up mineral deposits can etch glass permanently if left untreated. Sill damage allows water penetration, leading to rot and costly structural repair.
When to Call a Professional
Ground-floor windows might be manageable for homeowners, but professional window cleaning ensures streak-free results, proper safety for upper-floor work, and protective treatment of frames. We use pure water fed poles that reach high points safely and leave no residue or chemicals.
2. Gutters and Downpipes
✓ What to Look For
Clear leaves, moss, silt, and debris accumulated over winter. Check for water pooling or flowing over edges (sign of blockage). Inspect for sagging, loose brackets, rust, or separation at joints. Look at downpipes—are they discharging water away from the foundation?
Why It Matters
Clogged gutters cause water to back up onto roofs, saturate walls, and erode foundations. Over winter, ice dams can form in blocked gutters, causing structural damage. Proper drainage is your home's first line of defense against water ingress and foundation problems.
When to Call a Professional
Professional gutter cleaning is strongly recommended, especially for high roofs or complex gutter systems. We safely clear debris, flush systems to ensure proper flow, and can identify damage or repair needs. One missed blockage can lead to thousands in water damage repair.
3. Roof and Roof Features
✓ What to Look For
From ground level, look for moss, lichen, or algae growth—common after damp winters. Check tiles for obvious damage or displacement. Inspect roof valleys and flashing around chimney stacks. Look at soakaways and roof penetrations. Note any areas where water seems to pool or run abnormally.
Why It Matters
Moss and lichen retain moisture and accelerate deterioration of mortar and underlying structure. Damaged tiles allow water ingress directly into your home. Poor roof drainage causes water to accumulate in valleys, eventually finding its way through into ceilings and walls. Early intervention prevents costly damage.
When to Call a Professional
Professional roof cleaning should never be DIY work. The fall risk alone makes it dangerous. Our soft wash system removes moss and algae safely without pressure washing (which damages tiles). We can also assess structural issues and recommend repairs. At minimum, get a professional roof assessment every 2-3 years.
4. Driveway and Patio
✓ What to Look For
Check for moss, algae, lichen, and general grime buildup. Look for weeds growing through cracks. Inspect for oil stains or rust marks. Note any loose pavers, raised edges, or visible damage. Look at drainage patterns—are puddles forming in low spots?
Why It Matters
Moss and algae make surfaces slippery and dangerous—a serious fall hazard, particularly for elderly or mobility-limited visitors. Weeds in cracks can widen cracks as they grow. Poor drainage creates standing water and accelerates surface degradation. A clean, safe driveway and patio increase curb appeal and property value.
When to Call a Professional
Professional driveway and patio cleaning uses appropriate pressure and technique for different surfaces. Soft washing works for delicate pavers; pressure cleaning suits concrete. We can remove stubborn stains, kill moss and algae spores, and apply sealants to protect surfaces. Professional work is faster, safer, and longer-lasting than DIY attempts.
5. Rendered Walls and Brick
✓ What to Look For
Inspect rendered walls for algae staining, moss growth, or discolouration. Check brick walls for efflorescence (white salt deposits), pointing condition, and any loose mortar. Look at corners and north-facing elevations—these areas stay damp longest and are most prone to algae growth.
Why It Matters
Algae and moss growth on walls isn't just unsightly—it indicates excessive moisture retention, which can eventually penetrate the render or brick. Failing mortar allows water ingress and compromises structural integrity. Damaged pointing is often the entry point for water that leads to damp problems inside your home.
When to Call a Professional
While you can clean some walls yourself, professional cleaning using the right equipment and biocide treatments delivers better results and longevity. We assess whether cleaning is sufficient or if pointing repairs are needed. For high walls, older properties, or listed buildings with restrictions, professional assessment is essential.
6. Conservatory and Glass Extensions
✓ What to Look For
Check glass for mineral deposits, algae, and condensation staining. Inspect aluminum or uPVC frames for algae growth and water staining. Look at the roof panels—these collect grime and reduce light. Check seals around frames for degradation or mold growth. Ensure gutters attached to the conservatory are clear.
Why It Matters
Dirty glass and panels severely reduce light and heat gain, making your conservatory less pleasant to use. Staining and algae growth on frames indicates moisture issues that can lead to seal failure and water ingress. Gutter blockages can cause water to back up into the conservatory structure.
When to Call a Professional
Professional conservatory cleaning safely cleans glass, panels, and frames. We can reach roof panels safely, clean gutters, and identify potential issues. Regular professional cleaning keeps your conservatory usable, extends its lifespan, and helps spot problems early.
7. Fencing and Outdoor Structures
✓ What to Look For
Check wooden fences for rot, loose boards, or failing paint. Inspect posts for signs of deterioration, particularly at ground level. Look for algae or moss growth, especially on north-facing panels. Check metal fences for rust. Inspect gates for sagging or damage. Look at sheds, garden structures, and outdoor furniture.
Why It Matters
Neglected fencing deteriorates rapidly and becomes an eyesore. Rot spreads quickly once started. Loose boards or posts become safety hazards. Early maintenance extends fence lifespan and keeps your property secure and attractive. Rotting fence posts can be expensive to replace if not caught early.
When to Call a Professional
For fencing requiring cleaning or moss treatment, professional softwash can restore appearance safely. For structural repairs or rot assessment, consult a fencing specialist. A professional inspection helps identify problems before they require full fence replacement.
Your Spring Exterior Maintenance Schedule
High Priority (Do This First)
- Clear gutters and check downpipes for blockages
- Inspect roof from ground level for visible damage
- Check driveway and patio for hazardous moss/algae growth
- Inspect windows and frames for water damage
Medium Priority (Schedule Within 2 Weeks)
- Professional window cleaning if DIY isn't suitable
- Professional roof cleaning if moss is significant
- Driveway and patio cleaning for safety
- Rendered wall assessment and cleaning if needed
Lower Priority (Plan for April/May)
- Conservatory and glass cleaning
- Fence cleaning and treatment
- General outdoor furniture cleaning and preparation
- Landscaping and garden maintenance
Why Spring is Prime Time for Professional Cleaning
Spring cleaning isn't just a cliché—it's a practical necessity in Northamptonshire's climate. Winter damage accumulates quickly, and spring is when issues become most visible. Professional cleaning and maintenance during spring sets your property up for the entire year ahead.
Most exterior maintenance professionals see their busiest season in spring, so booking early ensures you get your preferred dates. Early action also prevents small issues from developing into expensive structural problems by summer.
If your property needs attention this spring, contact Premier Exterior Clean for a professional assessment and quote. We can prioritize your most pressing needs and create a maintenance plan that keeps your home in excellent condition year-round.