Summer Maintenance Tips Part Three: Outside Your Home

Summer presents the best time for outside projects. With warmer weather and the heavy rains of spring gone, you will find it easier to check off your outdoor to-do list.

Visual Check

Maintaining the outside of your home guarantees that a beautiful exterior will welcome your guests, but regular maintenance preserves more than curb appeal. A strong and fully functional exterior will keep the inside of your home safe from the elements.

Roof

All year long, wind, hail, falling trees, and rain can cause substantial damage to your roof. Check your roof for loose shingles, mold, mildew, or cracked chimney mortar. Don’t forget to check inside your attic for hidden damage.

Decks, Porches, and Patios

Because you will be spending more time outside your home enjoying the warm temperatures, it’s important to examine your deck, porch, and patio to make sure that they are up to par. Check for peeling paint and weakened beams, supports, or stairs.

If you notice any structural damage to any of these areas, call a trusted professional to assist you with repairs. If you have a wood deck or porch, applying a new coat of sealer every year will help to prevent water damage.

Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is applied to doors and windows to help seal air leaks. If you have weatherstripping installed, examine your windows and doors to make sure they are still free of air leaks.

If you would like to install weatherstripping in your home, it’s a good idea to begin this project before the cold temperatures roll in. Since there are several options available, the US Department of Energy suggests that homeowners chose a material that fits with the window or door’s operation.

Cleaning

The outside of your home is subjected to the many changes in weather throughout the year. After surviving extreme temperatures, wet conditions, and insects, your exterior will likely need some TLC. Take some time during the summer to clean the outside of your home and preserve its beauty.

Siding

Over time, siding can gather dirt, grime, and mold. Power washing your home may seem like the best solution but check with the manufacturer of your siding for best practices before attempting to clean the outside of your home.