Your home’s exterior is meant to protect your home from the effects of weather and to maintain its property value. The exterior of your home is exposed to various external conditions like sun, wind, and snow. Still, it’s also susceptible to pollution from dust or smog that can lead to dirt accumulation which causes early deterioration. Further, this may result in cracking walls, discoloration, landscaping overgrowth, mold growth, and pests.
Maintaining your home’s exterior is important to keep it looking its best. Keeping your home’s exterior looking good takes a bit of work, but it’s worth it! You can do many things to keep it in good condition, and we will discuss some of the most important tips and tricks in this blog post.
Importance of Home Exterior Maintenance:
- Maintaining your home’s exterior can help it last longer.
- It can also help improve its curb appeal, which is essential if you ever want to sell it.
- Regular maintenance can also prevent small problems from becoming big, expensive ones.
- It helps to protect your entire home from inside and out.
- Regular maintenance saves your home from harsh and unpredictable weather conditions.
- It safeguards your family’s health from outdoor pollution.
Ways To Maintain Your Home Exterior:
Cut Back Your Landscaping
One of the best ways to maintain your home’s exterior is to keep your landscaping trimmed and neat. Regularly trimming your bushes, trees, and grass will make your yard look nicer and help prevent damage to your home. Overgrown branches can scratch or dent your siding, and tall grass can attract pests. By keeping your landscaping trimmed, you can help to keep your home in good condition and looking its best.
Clean Your Gutters
Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof, siding, or foundation. In addition, they can also attract pests like mosquitoes and rodents. Regularly cleaning your gutters can help prevent these problems and keep your home in good condition.
To clean your gutters:
- Remove debris from the gutters with your gloves or a small shovel.
- Flush the gutters with water to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
- Use a hose to rinse off the outside of the gutters.
Keep Your Siding Clean
Your siding is one of the first things people see when they look at your home, so it’s important to keep it clean. Over time, dirt, grime, and other debris can build up on your siding, making it look dull and dirty. No matter the kind of siding you have (Aluminum, vinyl, wood, shingle, or brick), the best way to clean the exterior of your home is with a stiff brush and a bucket of soapy water. Clean one section at a time with soap and rinse with a hose before moving to the next. It is suggested that your home’s exterior is cleaned at least twice a year.
Repair Damage to Siding
If you notice any damage to your siding, taking care of it immediately is essential. Small cracks or holes can quickly become big problems if they’re not fixed. Water can seep in and cause rot, mold, or mildew. Insects can also get in and cause further damage.
There are a few different ways to repair damage to siding, depending on the type of siding you have. You can use putty or caulk to fill in holes. Larger holes will need to be patched with a piece of new siding.
Remove Mildew on Siding
Mildew can quickly form on siding, especially in areas that are shaded or don’t get a lot of sunlight. If you see mildew, it’s essential to clean it right away. You can use a commercial mildew remover or make your own with equal parts water and bleach. Spray the solution onto the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a brush to scrub the mildew away. Rinse the area with water and let it dry completely.
Clean The Doors & Windows
Doors and windows are essential parts of your home’s exterior. Not only do they add curb appeal, but they also keep your home well-insulated. To clean them, start by removing any dirt or debris with the help of a garden hose. Next, use a mild soap and water solution to clean the surface. Lastly, wipe off the soapy solution with water and use a non-abrasive cloth or mop. You can use a commercial glass cleaner or vinegar solution if there are any tough stains.
Caulking The Windows & Doors
Caulking is an important part of maintaining your home’s exterior. It helps seal gaps or cracks which can to energy loss and water damage. If you notice any damage, cracks, or gaps, consider caulking and weather-stripping your doors and windows to prevent air leaks.
Inspect Your Roof
Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so it’s important to inspect it regularly. Look for any missing or damaged shingles and repair or replace them. Also, check the flashing around vents and chimneys to ensure it’s in good condition.
Clean The Driveway and Walkway
If you have a driveway, it’s important to keep it clean and free of debris. Walk around your property regularly and pick up trash or branches that may have fallen. You should also regularly sweep and pressure wash your driveway to prevent dirt and grime from building up. This not only looks nicer, but it also prevents potential damages.
If you’re looking for help with maintaining your home’s exterior, Phoenix Siding can help. We offer various services to keep your home looking its best, including siding repair and replacement. We also offer a wide variety of siding options, and our experienced team can help you find the perfect fit for your home. Call us today at 250-758-3818 to get started!
