Working on your home’s exterior is effective preventative maintenance. You can avoid major, costly repairs, particularly from moisture and water penetration, sun exposure, and dirt as well as winter weather and rear-round severe weather. It’s more important than ever because so many repair businesses have closed during the coronavirus outbreak. You can avoid extensive repairs, and keep your house energy-efficient, with these tips.
Windows & Doors
- Have the Right Supplies: Use a soft dust brush, non-abrasive sponge, and microfiber cloth for wiping and drying your windows. For larger windows, use a squeegee. Also, keep a bucket of soapy water handy, but you can make a DIY glass cleaner with two cups of water, ½ cup of apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, and 1/3 cup of 70% rubbing alcohol.
- Plan Your Cleaning Around the Weather: Don’t wait until winter’s over to clean up dirt and grime. When you do a thorough window cleaning, wait until it’s dry and cloudy. Cleaning solutions can dry too quickly on a hot sunny day and leave behind streaks and stains.
- Wipe in a Z-like Pattern: And, reverse your direction on the other side of the window. This makes it easier to remove streaks on window panes. Avoid paper towels that can leave lint on the glass. An absorbent, lint-free cloth or chamois will do, or you can use newspaper pages if you want.
- Painting and Caulking: A new coat of paint can protect wood windows and doors from rotting. It can also prevent moisture buildup and drafts. Check the caulking on doors and window frames and replace as needed, and that sealant is applied to all seams. Also, inspect window sills, the vertical kick plate below the door, and door thresholds.
Siding & Trim
- Fix Damaged Siding: Start with loose pieces or where you can see the seams. Any parts that have chips, cracks, dents, or holes should be repaired or replaced. If vinyl, fiber cement, synthetic stone, or wood siding parts aren’t tightly secured, leaks can occur and lead to interior water damage; repairs should be done quickly.
- Wash Appropriately: Clean any siding as soon as you notice dirt or mildew. Dirt builds up faster in areas where there’s lots of vehicular traffic, humidity, and storms. Vinyl siding can be power washed. For wood siding, repaint it as needed to provide an extra layer of protection.
Roof
- Check for Missing/Damaged Shingles: Inspect your roofing to ensure the shingles are aligned and in good condition. If any are damaged, replace them to avoid additional problems, such as damage to underlying materials, roof trusses, insulation, and the attic interior. Also check the fascia boards, soffits, flashing, and valleys. Use binoculars for a safe, quick inspection.
Gutters
- Clean the Gutters: Lots of debris can accumulate in gutters. If you don’t clear out leaves and other debris, your home’s exterior drainage system will get clogged and, if rainwater can’t drain, it can collect around your foundation. Twice a year is safe for cleaning gutters and downspouts; to remember, plan for fall and spring cleanings.
Call Window World of Boston for Guidance
Window World of Boston has temporarily suspended field services during the COVID-19 crisis, but we’re happy to assist homeowners by phone (Shrewsbury: 508-845-6676, Pembroke: 781-343-7129, Woburn: 781-262-3925). If you’re planning renovations or have questions about replacement windows, siding, doors, or roofing, our team can speak with you. Helping you stay comfortable is our top priority and we’re looking forward to serving you again soon. Feel free to contact us online too.