Spring cleaning isn’t reserved just for your home’s interior, although that’s an important task as well. When the birds start chirping and the temperature starts rising, it’s time to turn your eye to the exterior of your home for some much-needed cleanup after winter. From pruning to cleaning out your gutters, here are some tips for outdoor home maintenance this spring.

Scoop out the Gutters

You may not think much about your gutters, but this is the time to scoop out all the debris that may have accumulated over the fall and winter. It’s best to do this before the heavy rains of spring come, as that debris can easily clog your gutters with anything from leaves and twigs to acorns and dirt. All you need is a cup or scoop to get it out, while relying on a sturdy ladder. For safety, enlist the help of a friend to spot you. While you’re up there, make sure the gutters are not coming loose. They should be fastened tightly to the home. Check that the downspouts are pointing in the right direction, away from the foundation, to avoid erosion, pooling or flooding in the basement.

Prune Shrubs and Bushes

Did you use burlap to cover your bushes this winter? Now’s the time to take them off. How do the branches look? They likely need to be pruned at least a little bit to restore their manicured shape. Failing to prune means you won’t make way for new growth in the upcoming season. Head to the garden and mulch areas next. Trim any perennials and remove annuals that you may have missed in the fall, says This Old House.

Check out the Roof

Using a pair of binoculars instead of actually getting up on the roof, observe the state of your shingles from the ground. Check for any bucking, curling or missing shingles, crumbling bricks around the chimney, or damaged flashing, vents and soffits. Do you see signs of staining, mold and mildew streaking your roof? It may be a good idea to power wash your roof this spring, hiring a pro to do it or renting a machine from the local home improvement store. To ensure your roof has no leaks, head to the attic and check the walls and ceilings for water marks. A full roof inspection is a good idea each spring to ensure your home is protected.

Inspect your Tool Shed

Hit the tool shed to check the state of your gas- and battery-powered lawn equipment. Make sure the blades of all tools are sharpened and all equipment is clean, plus make sure you have enough gas on hand for lawn mowers and such.

Spring cleaning may sound like a chore you just don’t want to tackle, but it’s a necessary one that will pay off over the coming season.