Owning a home is an investment, and proper exterior home maintenance will not only ensure that it looks its best but also increase its value. Keeping the outside area in top condition can be daunting, however with regular care and attention you can make sure that your home’s exterior is as good as new for years to come. Here are some tips on how to keep your home’s exterior in top condition.
Reinforce The Roof
This is an important part of maintaining its exterior in top condition as it protects from various weather conditions and elements. It’s suggested by professional roofing contractors to regularly check for damage and look over what can be done to make the roof stronger and tougher. This can help to prevent damage from weather conditions, as well as extend the life of the roof.
Make sure to inspect the roof for any loose, cracked, or missing shingles. Also, look for any signs of structural damage like sagging that could indicate a need to reinforce it.
If you’re in an area prone to storms, consider replacing your existing roof with one that is specifically designed and rated to withstand high winds and other weather conditions.
Keep It Clean
Cleaning the exterior of a home regularly helps to keep it looking its best, as dirt and debris can have an adverse effect on its appearance. This also helps to reduce the risk of costly repairs due to damage from the elements. Make sure to power wash the yard, as well as regularly clear away leaves, and other debris from the home’s siding. Pressure washing removes dirt buildup, mold, and mildew that can reduce the lifespan of siding.
Other processes should include removing mildew and mold from the home’s exterior paint, cleaning windows and gutters, and sweeping walkways. This will reduce dirt accumulation on siding, as well as help to keep surfaces free of debris that can contribute to damage. Additionally, check for signs of damage or wear on the siding; this could include chipped paint or cracking, which should be addressed as soon as possible.
Run Regular Inspections
Looking over the exterior of your home on a regular basis is an important step in keeping it in top condition. Inspect the entire house and surrounding grounds, including driveways, patios, decks, and other outdoor structures. Pay special attention to these areas:
- roof
- gutters
- siding
- windows and doors
- foundation
- outdoor electrical outlets
- landscaping
Doing so will help you identify minor problems before they become major issues. Look for signs of water damage or insect infestation, and make sure that any outdoor structures are still in good shape. If the paint around windows and doors is beginning to peel, consider refinishing them.
Repair Cracks And Holes
One of the key ways to keep the home’s exterior looking great is to regularly inspect for and repair cracks and holes. Cracks can occur when the house settles, from temperature changes, or from age-related wear and tear. Holes can form from storms, pests, pets or other types of damage.
If left unchecked, cracks and holes can cause further damage to the home’s structure. This can lead to costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it is important to repair any noticeable cracking or holes as quickly as possible.
Repairing a crack or hole is relatively simple. For minor cracks and holes, you can use a patching material to fill in the damage. On the other hand, for more major repairs, you may need to consult a professional contractor to ensure that the job is done properly.
Maintain Your Landscaping
Maintaining your landscaping is an important part of keeping the exterior of your home in top condition. Not only can well-maintained landscaping improve the look and feel of your home, but it can also provide important benefits such as improved air quality, reduced noise pollution, and even providing a habitat for wildlife.
For example, planting certain plants can help to absorb air pollutants. Trees and shrubs also act as natural sound barriers by absorbing noise from traffic and other sources. And landscaping can provide a place for birds and small animals to find shelter and food.
Paint The Walls
Painting the walls of your home is an essential part of keeping the exterior in top condition. It can help protect it from wear and tear, as well as give it a beautiful finish that will be admired by neighbors and passersby alike.
When painting your walls, make sure to use high-quality paint that is designed for outdoor use and can withstand the elements. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the paint, as this will ensure you get an even coating that provides maximum protection. You may also want to consider a primer before painting, which helps protect against UV rays and moisture.
Conclusion
Maintaining the exterior of your home is an important part of keeping it in top condition. Regular inspections, repairs to cracks and holes, proper landscaping, and painting can all help extend the life of your home’s siding and other surfaces. With a little bit of effort, you can make sure that your house looks great for years to come. So don’t forget these key steps when taking care of your home’s exterior!
