Maintaining the curb appeal and value of your property starts with keeping its outside in good condition. The outside of your home faces many challenges, like changing weather, dirt, and natural wear and tear.
In the US, home renovation has long played a significant role in upkeep. According to Statista, the total home improvement sales in the States were around $544.6 billion in 2023. Homeowners engage in home improvement to make residential properties more comfortable and utilitarian. However, when we think about maintenance, we usually tend to focus on the interior.
Since the outside makes the first impression on a guest, external maintenance is just as important as inside maintenance. Regular maintenance of the exterior helps keep it looking fresh and inviting. This guide provides helpful advice on how to keep your home’s outside looking nice for guests.
Regular Cleaning and Washing
Dirt, grime, and mildew can accumulate on surfaces. This may give your house a rather boring aspect. Data indicates that mold or moisture problems are present in about 47% of US houses. This problem can increase with the high probability of storms in your locality.
If your area is more prone to storms, rains, or other such weather conditions, the chances of dirt accumulating on your property increase. Consider the example of Greenville, South Carolina (SC). Weather reports from Fox Carolina show that there are chances of storms throughout the state’s ongoing week.
The report says that there are chances of scattered rains through Tuesday, 23 July 2024. Then there is a brief break on Wednesday, 24 July 2024. However, heavy storms are expected from late Wednesday night into Thursday. In such a scenario, there is a high chance that a property in Greenville, SC, can get dirty.
Siding and other surfaces may be cleaned using a pressure washer. Use pressure settings with caution to prevent material damage. According to Tip Top Wash, sidings are one of the most vulnerable places where algae and mildew can grow. This can make the exterior look dull and less appealing to the visitors.
However, using pressure washing for siding can cause damage to its materials. Therefore, you should consider soft washing using a gentle spray for such delicate areas.
Alternatively, you can call a local pressure washing company to handle it professionally. Considering the example above, you can hire a company offering pressure washing in Greenville, SC. The experts will have the equipment and know-how to restore the original cleanliness and fresh appearance of your house.
What’s the Proper Method for Cleaning the House’s Exterior?
Suppose your house is composed of brick, stucco, or delicate wood shingles, or if the dirt level isn’t too high. In that case, using a garden hose is one of the finest options. If you have tough stains on your property, pressure cleaning is the way to go. Wood siding, vinyl, and hybrid materials are all resistant to pressure washing.
Painting and Sealing
Your home’s appearance can be greatly improved with a new coat of paint. Paint keeps moisture from penetrating into wood and other materials by acting as a barrier against the weather. Regularly inspect painted surfaces for chipping, peeling, or fading. When repainting, choose high-quality, weather-resistant paints and primers.
Remember to seal wood components including trim, decks, and fences. Sealants help wood stay beautiful and longer-lasting by shielding it from UV rays and moisture. Better adhesion and longer-lasting results are guaranteed when surfaces are properly prepared before painting and sealing.
How Do You Maintain Exterior Paint on a House?
Maintaining clean, painted external surfaces is essential for a long-lasting appearance and a safe property. To stop the accumulation of dirt, dust, and other debris, make it a habit to often scour and wash accessible surfaces. To prevent causing damage to the paint, using a delicate brush and a mild cleaning might be beneficial.
Roof and Gutter Maintenance
One of the most important exterior features of your house is the roof. Regularly inspect it for missing, damaged, or curling shingles. Water leaks and additional damage are avoided by taking quick action on these problems.
Many individuals already know the importance of roof maintenance for the property. The unfortunate problem is that very few of them carry out routine checks. Insurance Journal states that just 38% out of a sample population reportedly checked their roofs for any damage regularly.
Another important thing that protects your house from water damage is the gutters. To guarantee appropriate drainage and stop water from collecting near your foundation, clean your gutters and downspouts. Gutter guards can help prevent debris accumulation and simplify maintenance.
Examine your roof for any indications of moss or algae development, which may be removed with the right cleansers. Regular roof and gutter maintenance enhances your home’s appearance and protects it from costly water damage.
Window and Door Care
Keep windows and doors clean and well-maintained to enhance your home’s curb appeal. Wash windows both inside and out on a regular basis, and look for any cracks or damaged seals. Repair or replace damaged windows promptly to maintain energy efficiency and appearance.
Examine doors for wear indicators like paint flaking or deteriorated weatherstripping. Lubricate locks and hinges to guarantee smooth functioning. To give doors a new look, think about painting or staining them. Proper care of windows and doors not only improves aesthetics but also boosts security and insulation.
How Do You Maintain Wooden Doors and Windows?
Dust and other debris can be removed from moving parts with a damp cloth. To avoid weather-related damage, check your paint or coating every three to six months. Touch up or recoat as needed, particularly the top and bottom of the sashes and doors. After the structure settles, windows and doors could require adjustments beyond what was originally specified.
Fence and Gate Maintenance
Fences and gates provide privacy and security, and they also contribute to the overall aesthetic of your home. Regularly inspect fences for loose boards, peeling paint, or rusted metal.
These come in various materials, including wooden, metal, plastic, etc. However, there have been advances in fencing materials and technology. According to Eco News, scientists have recently developed a wind fence that can capture wind and convert it to energy for self-consumption. This wind fence can generate up to 2200 kWh of free electricity for your house.
Exterior Lighting and Fixtures
Exterior lighting enhances your home’s appearance and improves safety and security. Regularly check light fixtures for dirt, cobwebs, or damage. Check that all of the lights are working correctly by cleaning or replacing the bulbs as needed.
Upgrade to LED light bulbs instead of incandescent ones; they last longer and use less energy. The majority of the interior illumination in nearly half of US homes is done with LED bulbs. You can do the same for exterior lighting, too.
Look for any indications of exposure or wear on the connections and wires. An inviting atmosphere may be created by adding ornamental lighting features like string lights or pathway lights. An attractive and welcoming appearance is created by well-maintained outside lighting.
Although it takes time and work to maintain your home’s exterior, the benefits are worthwhile. A well-kept home not only looks inviting but also retains its value and prevents costly repairs in the future.
By following these detailed maintenance tips, you can ensure your home remains attractive to bypassers and stands the test of time. Maintenance-wise, routine cleanings, repairs, and inspections are essential to maintaining the external beauty and usefulness of your house. Invest the time and resources into maintaining your home, and you will enjoy the benefits for years to come.
Recent Comments