Maintaining the exterior of your home is essential for more reasons than just keeping it looking nice. There are several key reasons why you should make sure to keep up with regular maintenance on the outside of your house. The most obvious reason is safety. If you allow your home to fall into disrepair, it becomes a much easier target for criminals.
A home that isn’t properly maintained will eventually need repairs or replacements of major components like the roof or windows, costing you around 10% of the home’s value. Maintaining your home can also help you avoid potential health hazards like mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory problems for you and your family.
So how do you go about maintaining the exterior of your home? Here are a few tips:
1. Inspect your home regularly for any damage or wear and tear.
Many people only think about inspecting the interior of their homes, but it’s just as important, if not more so, to regularly check the exterior. Look for cracks in the foundation, peeling paint, loose siding, etc. You want to catch any potential problems early on before they have a chance to get worse.
If you’re unsure what to look for, you can always hire a professional home inspector to give your place a once-over. They’ll be able to spot any problems that you might have missed. Ask your friends or family for recommendations to find a reputable inspector in your area.
2. Keep up with regular painting and staining.
One of the best ways to protect your home from the elements is to keep up with regular painting and staining schedules. This will help to prevent wood rot, as well as deter pests like termites.
If you have bare wood on your home’s exterior, make sure to apply a fresh coat of paint or stain every few years.
To prevent moisture damage, you must regularly seal decks and patios with a waterproof coating. Some people try to do this themselves but hiring a professional to do it for you is best. Consider doing this in the spring or summer so that you can take advantage of the nice weather and avoid any potential rainstorms.
3. Clean your gutters and downspouts.
Another essential maintenance task often overlooked is cleaning out your gutters and downspouts. This should be done at least once a year, preferably in the fall, before the leaves pile up. Allowing leaves and debris to build up in your gutters can eventually lead to clogs. This can cause water to back up and damage your roof or siding. In extreme cases, it can even lead to flooding in your basement.
Cleaning your gutters and downspouts is a relatively easy task that you can do yourself. You just have to use a ladder to reach them and then use a shovel or your hands to remove any debris. However, you can always hire a professional if you’re uncomfortable doing it.
4. Trim trees and bushes.
Trees and bushes can add curb appeal to your home, but you must appropriately maintain them. Regularly trimming them will help to keep them healthy and looking their best. It will also prevent them from damaging your home.
For example, if a tree limb falls on your roof, it could cause severe and costly damage. But if you regularly trim the branches, they’ll be less likely to fall and cause problems. Homeowners should also be on the lookout for tree roots growing too close to their home’s foundation. If left unchecked, these roots could eventually damage the foundation.
5. Seal cracks and gaps.
Another way to help protect your home from the elements is to seal any cracks or gaps in the exterior. This includes cracks in the foundation and gaps around doors and windows. These tiny openings can let in water, leading to mold and mildew problems inside your home. Sealing the cracks and gaps will help to keep your home dry and prevent moisture damage.
You can buy sealant at any hardware store. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package for the best results. Ask a sales associate if you have any questions.
Maintaining the exterior of your home is essential for your family’s safety. By regularly inspecting, painting, and sealing your home, you can prevent serious problems like water damage, wood rot, and flooding. Always be on the lookout for potential problems and take care of them immediately. Home maintenance may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth it in the long run. Your family will thank you for it.