8 Tips to Maintain Your Lawn

Mailbox Tip

Keep your outdoor mailbox from freezing shut this winter with a little cooking spray. Apply a light spritz inside the rim door and padlock to fight the frost.

Guard Outdoor Light Bulbs

Before it gets too cold, consider applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the threads of all your outdoor light bulbs. It will prevent them from rusting and make them easier to replace when they blow out.

Protect Your Fence Posts

If you want your fences to last, it’s important to keep the posts safe from rot, pests, and mold. It’s true the ingredients for this fence-post protector sound like they’re meant for a witches’ brew, but it really does work like magic! Mix together pulverized charcoal and boiled linseed oil to get a paint-like consistency, then simply paint the substance onto the bottom of each post. Best of all, it’s a one-time project that will last a lifetime!

Mind Your Mildew

If your deck is covered with mildew, try spraying the wood with straight vinegar. Leave it for an hour or so, then rinse off. The acid in the vinegar kills mold and mildew, and will help get your deck clean. Another option is to use hydrogen peroxide: Spray on, let sit for 30 minutes, then rinse.

Removing Shifty Shingles

To remove shingles without breaking your back (and wrists), use a shovel with a square head. Starting at the bottom of a tile, squeeze the edge of your shovel underneath and pry open the space between the shingle and the roof or wall. Lift up and the shingle will pop off.

Easy Trashcan Clean

The outdoor trash can is one of the grossest spots to clean. However, the chore will be a little less nasty if you try this simple trick: Use a drill to make a few half-inch holes in the bottom of the pail. Now you can shoot a hose inside for a quick wash, rather than dumping out filthy water every time you clean it. The holes also allow rainwater to drain out on its own.

Gardening Toolbox

Need a safe, dry place to store all of your gardening tools? Use an old mailbox! Mount it near your garden for easy access, then place small shovels, forks, spades, a pruner, gloves, and other hand-held tools inside.

Block Lock Rust

Have a padlock on your shed or something else outdoors? Keep it from rusting by keeping it from the elements. Slice open the side of a tennis ball (carefully!) and slip it over the lock to protect it.

 

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