5 Easy Spring & Summer Projects for Richmonders
Now that the weather is peak “Richmond,” we’re spending more time outside thinking, “I should probably do something out here…” Whether you’ve got a postage-stamp plot in Church Hill or a bigger spread in Bellevue, there’s something satisfying about making your outdoor space more usable (or just better looking).
The good news? You don’t need to own a garage full of power tools to get started. Raven Smith rents out all the essentials — so you can knock out your project without dropping hundreds at a big-box store.
Here are a few of the top yard upgrades Richmond folks are working on right now — and the tools we’ve got ready to help.
1. FRESHEN UP FLOWER BEDS (OR BUILD NEW ONES!)
Want to add a little charm to the front yard? Raised garden beds and flower boxes are great for growing herbs, veggies, or just some eye-catching color.
🛠 Helpful Tools to Rent:
Cordless drill (for building frames)
Circular saw (for cutting wood to size)
Wheelbarrow (because hauling dirt in a tote bag is no fun)
Bonus: We’ve got drill bits, if you need a full setup.
2. TIDY UP OVERGROWN TREES AND SHRUBS
Spring in Richmond = a lot of fast-growing green stuff. If your backyard is starting to feel more like a jungle, it’s time to reclaim the space.
🛠 Helpful Tools to Rent:
Weed Whacker (great cleaning up…well, weeds…and making your edges look choice.)
Electric hedge trimmer (makes short work of wild hedges)
Drop cloths and tarps (to catch clippings and keep cleanup simple)
Quick tip: This is an easy afternoon job, and you’ll be shocked how much better things look with just a little trimming. Just make sure to watch out for all of the poison ivy!
3. BUILD A FIREWOOD RACK OR BACKYARD BENCH
These small DIY builds are fun and pretty beginner-friendly. Plus, they give you a chance to use power tools without a full-blown construction project.
🛠 Helpful Tools to Rent:
Level (so your bench doesn’t wobble like a barstool at Sticky Rice)
Need help? There are a ton of videos on YouTube that lay out a very easy process.
4. CLEAN UP OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND PATIOS
Sometimes a refresh doesn’t require building anything—it just takes blasting off the 1-inch layer of pollen left over from the “pollening.” You’d be amazed what a pressure washer can do for outdoor furniture, brick patios, or concrete steps.
🛠 Helpful Tool to Rent:
Super effective — a pressure washer is surprisingly fun and satisfying to use.
5. START THAT BACKYARD GARDEN YOU KEEP TALKING ABOUT
Raised beds? Check. Fresh soil? Check. Seeds from Sneed’s? You bet. All you need now is a good way to move stuff around without breaking your back.
🛠 Helpful Tool to Rent:
Garden tools set (basic hand tools available by request)
If you’re into container gardening instead, I’ve got advice for that too—Richmond’s got great options for renters with balconies or small patios.
NEED A TOOL THIS WEEKEND?
Raven Smith is a hassle-free tool rental with available delivery and return pick-up (you never have to leave your home). Don’t buy — rent and instantly save money on your project.