Cleaning Decks and Driveways

by Marjorie Dorfman | More from this Blogger

05 Feb 2007 09:26 AM

To prepare for warmer weather and the enjoyment of the great outdoors, namely the yard and its environs, is a huge task. If you live in a region where it's warm all the time, you probably get no sleep at all, what with the inside and outside of the house needing attention all of the time. But have no fear. Help and rest are on the way. Read on for some tips even if you don't need a nap at the moment.

Deck Mold Full strength apple vinegar when applied to a wooden deck is very effective in removing mold. Let it sit for two hours or so and then rinse well with clean water. Do not neglect this second step or it will attract many flies to the deck.

Patio Umbrella To double the life of your patio umbrella, store it properly over the winter months. Stretch one leg of a pair of panty hose over the umbrella (remove them first) and tie the other leg around the handle to hold it in place. This allows the umbrella to breathe, so to speak, which inhibits mold. It also prevents spiders from nesting in the folds.

Asphalt Driveways Wash down the driveway with liquid dish detergent and water.

Concrete Driveways Powdered cement works wonders on oil spills. Spread some over the spill and once it is soaked up, apply a little dish soap and hose down.

Garage Floors To remove oil stains from concrete garage floors first place several layers of newspaper over the stain. (It will give the stain something to read while you are busy eliminating it from your life.) Soak the paper with water and allow it to dry. If the stain persists, scrub with mineral oil or kerosene. (Remember it's flammable and don't use too much kerosene, or otherwise you won't have to worry about a stain or the garage either for that matter.)

Do YOU have any tips to add? Please share.

Related Reading:

How Does Your Garden Clutter?

More Garden Clutter Tips"

"Garden Tools and Their Care"

"Outdoor Living and Dirt"

Learn more about Marjorie Dorfman

Marjorie Dorfman is a freelance writer and former teacher originally from Brooklyn, New York.

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