Looking after the outside of your home is not just about keeping it looking smart. Regular exterior cleaning plays a big role in protecting materials, preventing damage, and avoiding expensive repairs later on. In Surrey, where we deal with damp winters, leafy surroundings, and changing weather throughout the year, different parts of your property need attention at different times.
This seasonal checklist breaks it down clearly, so you know what to focus on and when.
Spring: Reset After Winter
Winter is hard on homes. Rain, wind, frost, and long periods of damp can leave behind dirt, algae, and blockages that are not always obvious straight away.
Spring checklist
- Windows and frames: Winter grime builds up quickly and can leave residues that cause streaking and staining if left too long. Cleaning windows properly also helps spot any seal or frame issues early.
- Gutters and downpipes: Moss, debris, and broken twigs often collect over winter. Clearing gutters in spring helps prevent overflows once heavier rain returns.
- Solar panels: Dirt, pollen, and bird mess can seriously affect performance. Spring is an ideal time to restore efficiency before longer daylight hours.
- Conservatory roofs: Algae and dirt build up fast over winter, reducing light levels inside and putting unnecessary strain on seals and panels.
- Fascias and soffits: Early signs of algae or staining often appear after winter damp. Addressing this early prevents deeper discolouration.
Spring cleaning is about resetting your home after the toughest season and preparing it for better weather ahead.
Summer: Maintain and Protect
Summer might feel like a quieter time for exterior maintenance, but it is ideal for keeping on top of growth and preventing long-term staining.
Summer checklist
- Windows: Regular cleaning stops mineral deposits from drying onto glass during warmer weather.
- Solar panels: Longer days mean more generation, but dirt still blocks sunlight. Keeping panels clean helps you get the most from peak summer output.
- Frames and sills: Heat can bake dirt into uPVC and painted surfaces, making it harder to remove later.
- Conservatories: Clean roofs and glazing reduce heat build-up and keep rooms more comfortable.
- General inspection: Summer is a good time to visually check rooflines, joints, and drainage while conditions are dry.
Maintenance in summer is about protecting surfaces and keeping everything working efficiently while access and conditions are at their best.
Autumn: Prevent Problems Before Winter
Autumn is one of the most important times for exterior cleaning in Surrey. Falling leaves, seed pods, and increased rainfall can quickly cause issues if left unchecked.
Autumn checklist
- Gutters: Clearing leaves and debris before winter reduces the risk of blockages, leaks, and water damage.
- Downpipes: These often get overlooked but are just as important as the gutters themselves.
- Solar panels: Leaf debris and bird mess are common in autumn. A clean system performs better going into darker months.
- Fascias and soffits: Removing algae and dirt before winter helps prevent moisture being trapped against surfaces.
- Conservatory roofs: Clearing organic build-up reduces staining and protects seals before colder weather arrives.
Autumn cleaning is all about prevention. A small amount of maintenance here can avoid much bigger problems later.
Winter: Keep an Eye on the Essentials
Winter is not usually the time for deep exterior cleaning, but it is still important to monitor key areas and deal with issues safely.
Winter checklist
- Visual gutter checks: Look for signs of overflowing water during rainfall, which may indicate a blockage.
- Windows: Occasional cleaning helps prevent grime build-up and allows you to spot condensation or seal problems.
- Solar panels: While output is lower, heavy dirt or bird mess can still have an impact and should not be ignored.
- Safety first: Avoid ladders and DIY risks in icy or wet conditions. Professional, risk-assessed cleaning is the safest option.
Winter maintenance focuses on observation and addressing urgent issues without taking unnecessary risks.
Why a Seasonal Approach Works
Exterior cleaning is not about one big clean once a year. Dirt, algae, and debris build up gradually, often in ways that are not obvious until damage has already started. A seasonal approach spreads the workload, protects surfaces, and keeps your home looking cared for all year round.
At Sheerwater Clean, we work on regular schedules because they are safer, more effective, and better for your property. As part of the Sheerwater Group, we bring the same attention to detail and professional standards that customers already trust for glass and solar.
If you would like help setting up a regular exterior cleaning plan that suits your home, location, and surroundings, we are always happy to advise. Keeping on top of things season by season is one of the simplest ways to protect your home for the long term.