With temperatures finally beginning to moderate in Western PA, it seems we have kicked Old Man Winter to the curb once and for all! Now, it’s time to head outside and take a good look at your property. Repairing winter damage today will save you a boatload of money down the road.
In addition to flower bed clean-up, spring is the perfect time to assess your home’s exterior for any needed repairs.
Winter Damage To The Roof, Gutters, Soffit, And Fascia
- Ensure shingles and flashing are intact. Typically, you are able to notice from ground level if something looks damaged. If you notice shingles laying in the yard, have known water penetration in the house, or suspect damage, hire someone trustworthy to inspect your roof. Then, repair or replace any loose or damaged roofing components to avoid water damage to your home’s interior. For shingles that are curling or breaking off, it’s probably time for a new roof.
- If you didn’t take the time to clean out the gutters in the fall, check to make sure they are free of leaves and debris. For those of you who are not comfortable on a ladder (like me!), get a friend who is or hire a pro to inspect and clean if necessary. When gutters are clogged, water is directed toward places you don’t want it to go, like your foundation. Clogged gutters could be a culprit if you have water in the basement. You can also check out this hose attachment for gutter cleaning that works well. Many leaf blowers and shop vacs offer optional attachments for gutter cleaning as well, along with simple scoops to remove leaves. Check Amazon.com for more DIY options to clean your gutters. Another tip: make sure gutters and downspouts are attached securely to the house.
- Look around the roofline at your soffit and fascia boards. Do you notice any loose material? This should be easy to spot from ground level. If you notice any rotting wood or flapping aluminum or vinyl, get it repaired ASAP. You don’t want to end up playing host to a hornet’s nest or offering an opening for a critter to find its way into your home.
Siding
- Inspect siding for buckling and warping, which may be an indicator that the material was nailed too tightly to the structure and therefore not able to expand or contract as it should. If you notice signs of this, have it repaired.
- Algae, mold, or mildew. This is a common occurrence, especially in north facing areas that do not get direct sunlight. When you notice this unsightly green or brown growth on you beautiful siding, don’t panic! There are simple methods to remove it.
- Pressure washer. Both gas powered and electric powered are sufficient to remove most of the build-up. Use caution to spray water with the wand pointing at a downward angle. You don’t want to spray the water up, as it can get behind the siding and cause water damage and possibly mold.
- Use a good cleaner that is safe for plants, such as Scott’s Outdoor Cleaner. When mixed in a sprayer according to the manufacturer’s directions, this cleaner will help to remove stubborn algae, mold, and mildew from many surfaces, including vinyl siding, concrete, wood, and composite decking.
Fencing
- Vinyl fencing will likely need some attention after the winter months. While it is maintenance-free, the cleaning concepts listed above for vinyl siding will help to keep your fence fresh and looking new. It is also worth mentioning that any fence panels that are loose or falling down should be repaired.
- Wooden fencing requires regular maintenance. A good cleaning may be necessary, along with repainting, restaining, or water sealing. Thompson’s Water Seal is a great choice to protect the wood from water, UV rays, mold, and mildew.
Windows: Winter Damage
- Clean windows and screens, because they take a beating during the winter. If you don’t have double hung windows or simply want to thoroughly clean the exterior of your windows, check out the March Newsletter for a tried and true method to make your windows shine!
- Inspect the caulking around your windows for cracking and breaking. Scrape out old caulk and re-caulk if necessary. This job is tedious but helps increase the energy efficiency of your home. In addition, it will keep water out and insects from finding their way inside.
- If the trim around your windows is painted, look for peeling paint. Not only does it look bad, it leaves the wood exposed to the elements, which could result in rot over time. Scrape, sand, prime, and paint your trim if needed. Note: If your home was built in the early 1970’s or before, get a kit to test for lead-based paint before you begin scraping and sanding. If wood rot is present, consider removing the trim and replacing it.
Additional Suggestions For Exterior Post-Winter Inspection
- Sidewalks and patio. Since the pressure washer is handy, take the time to remove the grime from these hard surfaces. You will be amazed by the color change! Scott’s Outdoor Cleaner works well on concrete too. Spray it on, let it do its job, and pressure wash it off. If you have cracked or crumbling concrete, make a plan to repair or replace it.
- Driveways:
- Concrete. Take care of concrete using the same process as the sidewalk.
- Asphalt. Are there cracks that need to be repaired? For small cracks, you can purchase crack filler at your local home improvement or hardware store. Applying a sealer to your asphalt is a messy job, but will make your driveway look new and protect it from the elements. For severely cracked or crumbling asphalt, consult a professional.
- Gravel. Fill low spots with new gravel.
- Porches and Decks. No matter what the material, porches should never wobble or shake when you walk on them. If this is the case for you, please consult a professional if you have the resources, as this is a safety hazard. Make sure the railings are secure as well.
- Wood Surfaces. As with the fence, cleaning and sealing your porch or deck will keep it looking good for years to come. Before doing that, look for splintering wood or protruding nails and repair accordingly. Sometimes, sanding the surface will work, but for severely worn, warped, and splintered wood, decking may need to be replaced.
- Composite Material. While composite is another fantastic maintenance-free option, regular cleaning is required to keep it looking it’s best.
General Clean-Up
Take the time to remove cobwebs and the accumulation of dirt from the outside recesses of your home. This is a pretty easy task using a simple broom. Wipe exterior light fixtures, mailboxes, and other dirty surfaces with soapy water.
While winter takes a toll on the appearance of your home, dedicating a weekend or two to clean and repair the damage will not only save you money in the long run, it will allow you to enjoy your home for seasons to come.
Until next time,
April
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