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Patio Face Lift This DIY Basic, brought to you by Mr. Clean and Lowe’s, will provide tips on giving your patio a face lift.

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Figure A Figure B Figure C  WINDOWS MEDIA VIDEO Watch the Video

• When outdoor season starts, it’s time to freshen up the patio.
  
• A pressure washer makes quick work of dirt and mold on the patio floor (figure A).
  
• Once furniture is brought out of storage, it doesn’t take long to get it ready for use.
  
• Smelly cushions can be renewed with antimicrobial fabric refresher.
• A quick clean with multi-purpose wipes works great on glass tabletops.

• Consider getting materials to build a small storage bench, which is great for holding patio cleaning supplies (figure B).
  
• Hardwood plywood is a healthy choice for the sides and lid.
  
• Short legs will keep it off the damp patio floor.
  
• Hardware cloth in the bottom will keep the inside fresh.
  
• Besides having extra storage, with a cushion on top, you’ll also have extra seating (figure C).
  
• Garden storage and supplies may look just as fresh with a quick clean.
  
• Finish with outdoor lighting and your patio is freshened and ready for the new season.

• Keep in mind the material on your patio when you purchase cleaning products. Wicker, wood, and plastic furniture require different products. What you use on windows may not work for metal.

• When using a power washer, be careful not to damage doors, windows or plants

• Materials & tools for storage bench:
  
  
  
  • One 4x8x3/4" sheet of hardwood plywood
    
  • One 4-foot 1x6
    
  • Hardware cloth 48 by 14 1/2 inches
    
  • Nail gun or hammer
    
  • Finish nails
    
  • Carpenter's glue (wood glue)
    
  • Circular saw
    
  • Palm sander
    
  • Sandpaper (80, 100, 150, 220 grit)
    
  • 48" piano hinge
    
  • Veneer edge tape
    
  • Utility knife
    

• Boards need to be cut:
  
  
  
  • Front and back piece (2): 46" L x 12" W
    
  • Top piece: 46"L x 17" W
    
  • Wide pieces (2): 17" W X 12" H
    
  • Bottom piece: 15.5" W x 46 " L
    
  
  
  
• Nail box pieces together.
  
• Add three hinges on lid to the box.
  
• Add decorative hardware chain on inside of the box for safety.
  
• Add four bun feet.
  
• Finish with stain or paint (if desired) and polyurethane.
  

RESOURCES :

Lowe’s Information

Website: www.lowes.com/cleanpatio /