When maintaining your home, it’s important to also remember to maintain the outside walls of your home.
The exterior of your home has the potential to say a lot about you and the interior of your home. It can reduce or enhance curb appeal, allow you to show off your home’s personality, and be a great source of protection against the outside elements. The point is, your home can do a lot for you, so it’s best to do what you can for it. If there are areas around the outside of your home that need attention or replacement, it’s best to get to them as soon as possible. Below is a list of areas to pay special attention to, as they can wear down the fastest and need the most maintenance.
Your Roof
You should get the condition of your roof evaluated at least once a year. Look for signs of wear and tear, like broken shingles or roof tiles that flap in the wind. Also, look at the sides of your roof. Typically, the side of your roof with southern exposure will wear faster than the rest. Shallower pitches deteriorate quicker than steep pitches. Make sure you can see your entire roof when evaluating its condition.
It’s very easy for the wind to rip shingles off the roof if it gets fast enough, or there’s a bad enough storm. It’s also possible for the shingles to curl or break. Broken shingles can lead to a leaky roof, meaning it’s very easy for water to get in and cause chaos in the rest of your house.
Entry Doors
Stand outside facing your door at nighttime while leaving the interior lights on. Do you see light around the main entry door even though it is closed and locked? If so, the door is warped and may need to be replaced. Another method is if, on a cold night, you hold your hand a few inches away from the bottom perimeter of your entry door. If there are significant cold spots or you can feel air movement, you may need to improve the sealing of your door.
Do you want your door to be the focal point of your home’s exterior? If so, consider giving it a splash of color. Or purchase a door with decorative glass to give your entranceway more light. Either option can be a definite eye-catcher. This is especially a good idea if you’re looking for ways to make your home more attractive while trying to sell it.
Siding
Is it time to replace your vinyl siding? Vinyl is a popular siding material because it is easy to install, it is durable, and it lasts for a long time. You can choose from a variety of colors and styles. You can even find siding that looks like it is wood or stone.
As with all things, the siding will eventually break down and need to be replaced. Has there been a significant storm in your area? If so, it could have knocked or torn holes into the panels. Significant changes in temperature can also do damage, as vinyl expands and contracts with the temperature.
As you walk around the exterior of your home, look for signs that your siding is warped or buckled. If you see that it is notably cracked or if you find evidence of moisture in the home, it may be an excellent time to consider replacing your siding.
Your home may be the most expensive investment you will ever make. You owe it to yourself to keep your home looking nice on the inside and the outside. Schedule time to evaluate the condition of your doors, roof, and siding. When necessary, invest in keeping these external home systems looking their best.
Author Bio
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max. She enjoys researching and writing articles on a variety of topics, from home improvement to real estate to manufacturing facilities.
