Quick answer: Before Thanksgiving, book holiday lights, a window clean, a driveway and walkway wash, gutter and leaf cleanup, and a house wash if the siding looks tired. Book this week; crews get busy in the last days before the holiday.
First impressions start at the curb. If family is coming for the holidays, a few outdoor jobs make a big difference, and most can be done in a day.
Which jobs make the biggest difference?
- Holiday lights. Up before Thanksgiving means you enjoy them all season.
- Window cleaning. Clean glass lets in the low winter light and makes the house feel brighter inside.
- Driveway and walkway wash. Removes the grime, moss and leaf stains of fall. Slippery walkways are a hazard for older guests.
- Gutter cleaning. Overflowing gutters right over the front door are the last thing you want in a rainstorm.
- Leaf cleanup. A tidy lawn and clear paths for guests.
- House wash. A soft wash removes green streaks and dirt from siding.
How far ahead should I book?
Most of these can be done in a single visit, but the week before Thanksgiving is busy. Booking one to two weeks ahead gives you the best choice of days. If you're short on time, many companies can combine jobs in one trip.
What can wait until spring?
Jobs like deck staining, concrete sealing and roof cleaning are usually better in warmer, drier weather. Ask your pro to put you on the list for spring.
Ready for guests? Find local pros for lights, windows, washing and gutters.