Though most homes today are practically new, there are still plenty of homes on the market that have stood the test of time. However, much of their longevity is due to the upkeep of the property over the years. It’s no secret that neglect can quickly lead to a home deteriorating. Therefore, the following list includes some of the most important exterior home maintenance you must perform to prevent even bigger problems from occurring.
Siding
Replacing your home’s siding might not be at the top of your list, but when it does come time to repair this area of your home, it must be taken care of right away. Some of the telltale signs that your siding needs to be replaced are very easy to spot. You will see wear and tear such as cracking, discoloration and even warping of the material. There are various types of siding that can be used on the side of your house. If budget is a concern, you might want to consider using vinyl siding material. It’s not only budget-friendly, but it still provides you with enough protection. Failure to keep up regular maintenance on your home’s siding may result in bigger problems such as leaks and eventually mold within your interior walls.
Chimney
There are a few things that can only be enjoyed during a certain time of year. The chimney is one of these. Homeowners will often use their chimney during the winter months only to neglect it for the rest of the year. Of course, this can lead to bigger issues down the road. When the summer months come along, you should think about performing some maintenance on it. It may involve inspection to see if there is any damage to the mortar and masonry. You should also consider performing a cleaning on your chimney. According to the Chimney Safety Institute, cleaning must be performed when 1/8 inch or more of creosote has accumulated along the lining. Lastly, you may also avoid major water and clogging issues by installing a chimney cap. This will prevent any moisture from slipping through during heavy thunderstorms.
Gutters
The job of your home gutters is to allow water to be directed away from your home and onto the ground. A clogged gutter or one that is broken can allow water to accumulate. This may lead to leaks as well as causing additional damage to an already compromised roof. Experts state that homeowners should clean their gutters at least twice a year to maintain a fully functioning home drainage system.
Many of the larger and more expensive issues that homeowners face can be traced back to a lack of maintenance. Therefore, it is incredibly important for homeowners to adhere to the list above to ensure that these issues don’t arise in the first place.
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