Tips for Upkeep of your Home’s Exterior

The exterior of your house is the shell that is your home’s first line of defense from all of the elements. Albertans know all about the elements and how hardy their homes must be to keep warm and cozy or dry or cool, depending upon what season is upon us.

That being said, it is highly recommended that you do as much upkeep as possible to keep your home’s exterior beautiful and strong enough to keep those elements at bay. We at Okotoks Real Estate are happy to offer the following tips for upkeep of your home’s exterior.

Keep Your Gutters Clear

Your home’s gutter and drainpipes can quickly clog, causing an overflow of water. To properly clean out your gutters and drainpipes, remove all debris by hand. Then, hose out all remaining debris, making sure that all water is flowing down the drainpipe and draining properly.

Also check for damaged parts of your gutter. Damage can be caused by ladders or overhanging tree branches. When you are hosing out your gutters, check for any leaks that may have developed since the last time you cleaned them. If you find any leaks, you may need to replace the seal that links the pipes together.

Inspect Your Roof

While you are checking your gutters, you may as well spend the extra time doing an inspection of your roof. Remove any debris, and pay particular attention around all flashings to make sure they are properly weatherproofed. Most homes are roofed with asphalt shingles, so pay attention to their colour and whether or not they have started to curl along their edges.

Discoloration or lifting may be due to moss growth or excess moisture. Remove any moss, and it may be worthwhile to treat the roof with a fungicide. If you are unsure, a consultation with a professional may be worth the time and investment.

 

Don’t Forget the Walls

Finally, a quick check to the exterior walls of your home is a good idea. Look for rot along any joints or where the wall meets the ground. Any rotten areas must be removed and replaced. Also remove any bubbling or peeling paint. Make sure to re-prime the area and then repaint the area with at least two coats.

A quick once over of the exterior of your home can give it a longer life and keep it looking new. A healthy exterior is not only essential for keeping you sheltered from the elements, it is also aesthetically pleasing. These few quick but essential tips should keep your house’s exterior looking new for years to come.

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