It’s essential to keep your home in good condition, and that means doing regular maintenance work. Many of the tasks that we already do, such as everyday sweeping, replacing air filters, and fixing broken stair treads, go a long way in keeping the interior safe and presentable. But we mustn’t forget to work on our home’s exterior as well.
Regular maintenance is essential to your home’s long-term health. Exterior maintenance tasks run the gamut from mowing the lawn and patching small pavement cracks to replacing exterior doors. By doing these tasks, you protect the structure from the elements and keep molds, moisture, and pests out of your home.
- Patch concrete cracks
Concrete pavements eventually crack due to wear and tear and thermal expansion and contraction. If you start to see cracks forming in the pavement, you should patch them while they are still small and easy to repair. If you leave the cracks alone, they could get bigger, and you might have to call in a professional contractor to do the repairs.
Concrete repair ensures that your pavements remain safe to walk on for your guests and loves ones. Cracks are also unsightly and can lower the value of your home.
- Repaint the exterior
Paint doesn’t last forever. Eventually, the top layer will crack and peel off, exposing the structure underneath. Repainting bare patches reseals the surface and protects your home against moisture damage. You should remember that the new paint might not match the color around it.
- Manage lawn vegetation
Lawn vegetation such as trees, shrubs, and hedges helps keep your home cool and inviting, but you should also make sure that it doesn’t damage your home. Cut tree branches that are getting too close to the roof as it could damage the shingles. Shrubs and hedges shouldn’t be placed near the siding because they hold a lot of water.
- Inspect the front door
Check the front door for signs of wear and tear at least twice a year. Some of the things you should look out for include stripping, thinning paint or varnish, and nonfunctional hardware like cameras and doorbells. Don’t forget to check for cracks around the frame and on the glass as well, as moisture could seep in and weaken the structure further. If the damage is too extensive, you might have to start looking for exterior doors.
If the door too dirty, take this opportunity to clean it as well. A simple mixture of mild household cleaner and water is enough to remove soot and dirt buildup on the door surface. Just make sure to wipe the surface dry afterward because moisture can damage the door.
- Clean the fences
Wood fences have to replaced after a few years, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need maintenance. You need to regularly clean fences to remove mold and mildew and extend its lifespan. Rent a pressure washer for a deeper clean.
These pointers will help you keep your home’s exterior clean, presentable, and in good condition. Exterior repair and replacement projects can easily cost thousands of dollars, which is why it’s essential to do regular maintenance work to protect your home from moisture and decay.