Most homeowners scramble to keep the interior of their homes clean. They want to keep the floors shiny, the dining table clean, and the pillows fluffed.
But when was the last time you thoroughly inspected and cleaned the exterior of your home? Dusting off the front porch doesn’t count. It’s easy to neglect the exterior of your home, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it completely.
Neglecting the exterior will lead to gradual deterioration, and that can lead to a dilapidated appearance. If you’re wondering how to maintain the exterior of your home, here’s a three-part checklist that will help you keep it in tip-top shape.
Keep It Clean
Make sure you maintain the siding, porch, and gutters. You can easily clean the exterior with two pieces of special equipment—a leaf blower and a pressure washer. A leaf blower will make quick work of the debris in your gutters, while a pressure washer will blast dirt and grime off the porch and siding.
Check for Damage
If a storm recently blew through your town or your home is just old, inspect the exterior for damage. Your roof is especially susceptible to damage after a storm. If you notice shingles sunbathing on your lawn or a massive crack stretching from one end of the roof to the next, call a professional roofing contractor. The siding is also vulnerable to storms.
You should never wait to repair damage to the exterior of your home. The longer you leave it, the worse and more expensive it will get. Having it repaired early is the cheapest and safest option.
Take Preventative Measures
The final tip on how to maintain the exterior of your home is to take simple preventative measures to prevent deterioration and damage. If you want to protect your home, consider investing in some simple tools that can stave off the elements and other hazards to your home.
You can get a cover for your gutters and downspouts to keep debris from accumulating. If you live in a place that experiences heavy winds and frequent hailstorms, you might want to install exterior shutters to keep windowpanes from cracking or breaking. And something as simple as a fresh coat of paint can supply the siding with an additional layer of protection.