We’re in the dog days of summer. Have you finished all the chores on your list for this year?
With warmer temps and plenty of daylight, summer can be the perfect time to take care of exterior maintenance issues. Tackling these not-so-fun chores regularly will keep your home or business looking great year-round.
(1) Clean and Inspect Your Front Door
Your front door is usually the first thing people notice when they approach your home or business. Each year, you should inspect it, clean it, and touch up the paint if necessary. You only need a gentle cleaner to wipe it down. Avoid using anything abrasive, as this can scratch the door. If your door features glass panels, use glass cleaner to wipe those down. As you clean, look for damage to the door itself, the weather stripping, and the hardware. Be sure there are no cracks in the glass or frame, which can let in moisture. If you discover chipped or peeling finish, you’ll need to repaint.
(2) Inspect and Repair Window Gaps; Refinish Wood Window Frames
Check for gaps between your trim and your exterior siding. If necessary, remove aging caulk and apply a new layer. Be sure to identify spaces where air, moisture, or pests can enter your home. For larger gaps, caulk may not be enough; you should consider replacing the trim altogether. If you have wooden window frames, look for cracking or peeling paint that can let in moisture or rot away. Patch any cracks you see or refinish your window frames completely for the best protection against the elements.
(3) Pressure Wash Your Exterior Walls
Summer is a great time to get your exterior completely clean, before the ice and snow return. No matter what your exterior — siding, brick, or stucco — you should pressure wash every once and awhile to remove any accumulated mold, mildew, dirt, or grime. This simple chore can make your home or business look more attractive, potentially raising its value. Use caution if you do this task yourself, and avoid windows or doors.
(4) Inspect Your Siding and Trim
If your siding hasn’t been replaced in several years, you’ll want to check it for cracked or mildewed areas. Catching these problems early can help you repair them quickly and save you money in the long run. While you’re at it, inspect the trim along the roof and around entrances. If you see rotted or cracked areas, replace them right away. A pain touch-up may be all it takes to make the trim really stand out.
(5) Paint Your Exterior
Painting the exterior of your home or business regularly not only keeps it looking sharp, it also seals and protects these surfaces from moisture damage. As you take a look at your exterior, keep watch for areas that peel or seem faded: this can be a sign of a significant moisture issue. You may discover that a touch-up is all you need. If not, however, it’s worth it to repaint your exterior every 5 or 6 years to maintain your property and keep it looking its best.
Contact SNL Painting Inc. for Exterior Paint Services
If you’d like to give your home a fresh, new look, but don’t want to do it by yourself, let our professional painters know. We’re happy to discuss your project with you and give you a prompt and fair estimate, at no cost.
