As the temperatures dip and the wind picks up, we may notice crisp golden leaves fluttering onto our balconies.  This should alert us to prepare these outdoor havens for their annual period of hibernation.  To keep these valuable spaces in top condition, autumn balcony maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of our balcony’s aesthetic appeal and safe operation.  Here are the key steps you can follow:

Clean Everything Thoroughly

• Sweep away all leaves, dirt, and debris and wash the balcony floor thoroughly to remove any stains and mildew.
• Clean railings and walls to remove dirt, dust, spider webs, and pollen.
• Wash windows and doors.  This is especially important right before winter as grime can become more resistant to removal in cold weather.

Care for Plants

• Bring frost-sensitive plants indoors.
• Trim and deadhead outdoor plants and cut back perennials removing any rotting foliage.
• If you’re seeking autumn-friendly plants, mums, pansies, ornamental kale, or evergreen shrubs do well in the colder seasons.
• To prevent cracking pots from frozen soil expansion, empty any planters that won’t be in use.

Protect Furniture

• Clean and dry outdoor furniture and then apply waterproof covers or store furniture indoors.
• Secure any lightweight items as high winds can easily knock them over.
• Oil wooden furniture with a coat of outdoor wood oil to help protect it from moisture.

Check for Safety and Maintenance Issues

• Inspect railings and flooring and tighten loose screws or bolts.
• Check drainage and make sure water can flow freely through drains as blocked drainage can cause flooding or ice buildup.
• Check for rust, rot, and cracks.  Seal small cracks in concrete or tiles to prevent freeze / thaw damage.

Regular autumn balcony maintenance not only keeps your balcony in top form but makes its reopening in the spring a breeze!