Backyards, Patios and Pools… Oh my! Prepping for some sun and fun!

Backyard BBQ, 4th of July, Old Algiers section of New Orleans. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

swimming pool (Photo credit: freefotouk)

English: A rolled up pool cover used by a residential swimming pool. Photo taken by SMC. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Summer is here! Ok, just around the corner…  With one long weekend behind us you may be feeling a bit behind if you haven’t done your backyard prep quite yet.

Whether you enjoy dining outdoors after work, entertaining guests or relaxing by the pool there are a few things that you should consider doing to beautify your backyard oasis and make it THE place to be all summer long.

1. Clean up – Consider power washing your deck or patio to really freshen it up. If you don’t own a power washer it can be rented from your local gardening or hardware store.  Give your patio furniture a good cleaning and wash all the seat cushions and the gazebo cover. Cut the grass, pull out the weeds, trim the hedges and freshen up the mulch.
2. BBQ – Your bbq has been sitting all winter long. Hopefully you gave it a good clean last fall and covered it to weather the cold months. Nonetheless, there are a few things you need to do at the start of the grilling months. Check your gas bbq for hose leaks, cob web blockages and build up and any holes in the body of the grill. Give the grilling rack a good scrubbing with heavy duty cleaner intended for bbq’s (follow the instructions), hose down away from bbq and let air dry. If you use gas tanks, return the old one and exchange for a new one. Remember to always practice safe grilling and never leave your bbq unattended.
3. Playgrounds – Check children’s play sets for any winter damage and repair as needed. Ensure they are well grounded and secure. While you’ve still got it on the clock, go ahead and give it a power wash!
4. Pools – Check for any seasonal maintenance and repairs to the pool itself and to the pump and equipment. Check that the drain and suction covers are in place and in good working order and your pool cover is in good shape.  A fence should be installed around the pool. Check with your city for height requirements. Ensure that water safety equipment such as floatation devices, pool hooks and a first aid kit are available and never leave children unattended.
5. Patio furniture – Do you like to dine outdoors? Do you enjoy a relaxed outdoor living area? Think about how you like to use your backyard and create comfortable sitting areas that make sense for your lifestyle and available space.

It’s still early in the season, but it’s time to get that backyard in shape. Cleaned-up and tidy, in good condition and with a few safety systems in place, you can put your feet up and unwind or invite the neighbours over for a summer night cook out! MOST importantly, don’t forget the ice!