For example, you can create an attractive exterior landscape by mowing the lawn, trimming the hedges and getting rid of dead shrubs. You can also give your home a much-needed "facelift" by maintaining its exterior surface. One way to do this is by cleaning and restoring vinyl shutters, which experience significant fading and oxidation over time with exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Many exterior projects are time-consuming and daunting, but caring for your vinyl shutters can take just a few hours. And you can do this project yourself without completely emptying your wallet. The Restora vinyl care system, from The Flood Company, is a unique two-step process that thoroughly cleans exterior vinyl, then restores the original rich color and sheen. It's the perfect alternative to costly re-painting or shutter replacement. And Restora is guaranteed not to crack, peel or blister.

"Improving the look of your shutters isn't usually at the top of your 'laundry list' of home projects. However, for under $50, you can use the Restora kit and see immediate results on your vinyl shutters," says Gary Finseth, of Flood. "You can even go a step further and restore your vinyl siding."

So, you don't have to block off an entire weekend to clean and restore your vinyl exterior - by spending just a few hours, you can keep your home looking brand new. For more information, and to find a local retailer that sells Restora, go to www.flood.com or call (800) 321-3444.

- ARA Content