When was the last time you gave your home's exterior a checkup? Most homeowners put a lot of effort into keeping the inside of their home clean and healthy, but the outside rarely gets the same attention. The good news is that your exterior doesn't need much. It does need some.
With exterior products, maintenance is what counts. The more proactive you are, the longer your siding, windows and screens will last before they need repair or replacement.
Siding: Your Home's First Line of Defense
Siding is often treated as "set it and forget it," and many homeowners go years without really looking at theirs. Start by walking around your home and checking your siding. If something looks wrong, it probably is. Take photos of any areas that look even a little "off."
Don't skip the gutters. Clogged, damaged or poorly sloped gutters are one of the leading causes of water damage to siding. Water getting behind siding can lead to mold, so it can't wait. A quick wash can also bring dingy siding back to life. Just follow the manufacturer's cleaning recommendations. Keep woodpiles, debris and dirt mounds away from your siding. Finally, make sure there are at least six inches between the ground and the bottom of your siding. If you see warping or delamination, have it checked right away. Catching it early costs far less than replacing a whole wall.
Windows: Small Checks, Big Energy Savings
Windows affect both the outside and inside of your home. Start with the basics: make sure every lock works, and keep your windows locked. An unlocked window can let heated or cooled air escape. Look for fogging or moisture between the panes, which is a sign of seal failure. Deep-clean the frames and tracks, replace any peeling weather stripping, and re-caulk any cracked or peeling spots around the frame. Check your windows at least once a year.
Screens: Fresh Air All Year Long
In Colorado, the weather can go from snow to sunshine in a day. Working screens let you cool down or air out your home just by opening a window or door. Replace any screens that are stretched or torn. If your sliding screen door keeps coming off its track, clean the tracks thoroughly. If you have an outdoor area that needs shade, look into
Download the Free Home Exterior Checkup Guide
Want a step-by-step way to check your home's exterior? Our guide walks you through the questions to ask about your siding, windows and screens, and includes a checklist with space to note anything that needs repair or replacement.
Download the Free Home Exterior Checkup PDF
Have questions about your home exterior? Contact our Denver siding & window experts for a free quote.
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