3 Common Outdoor Maintenance Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Your home’s exterior is the first impression people will have of it, but it’s also something that homeowners often overlook. Naturally we get busy and distracted with daily life and focus on the interior. However, neglecting outdoor maintenance can lead to costly damage and safety hazards the longer we leave it.
A little care now will protect your home’s exterior, preserve its character, and save you from costly repair bills.
In this article, we’ll address the 3 most common outdoor maintenance mistakes homeowners make and what you can do to avoid them.
Neglecting Regular Gutter Maintenance
The first most common mistake is neglecting gutter maintenance and waiting until it gets clogged. Gutters aren’t the most exciting part of your property, but they contribute massively to homelife.
They direct rainwater away from your home, protecting your walls, roof, and foundation from water damage. When working properly, they prevent rain from pooling around your property and prevent serious problems.
When your gutters are clogged, water has nowhere to go but onto your roof. This causes water to go in one of two directions. The first is to pool and seep under your roof tiles or shingles, and cause rot and water damage to the structure.
The second is to fall straight to the base of your building. Over time, this constant moisture can weaken your foundation causing cracks and structural issues. Remember, foundation repairs are one of the most expensive and disruptive problems you can have as a property owner.
Mould, basement flooding, and pest infestations are other common problems associated with not cleaning your gutters.
Whilst homeowners can clean their gutters on their own, hiring a professional has its benefits especially regarding safety. Gutter cleaning involves working at height, which can be dangerous without the right equipment and experience. Experts use professional-grade ladders and safety gear to do the job safely and efficiently.
Ignoring Patio and Driveway Grime
Driveways and patios are quick for becoming a magnet to moss, dirt, algae, and weeds. This unsightly build-up not only looks terrible but hides dangers as well. Moss and algae can turn the surface into a slippery nightmare when wet and increase the risk of slips and falls. For families with young children or elderly members, these hazards can mean painful accidents.
Besides looking awful, moss and algae can cause serious damage to your property. The moisture trapped by moss and algae seeps into the surface and weakens the material which can lead to cracks. If left unattended, this can mean costly repairs or replacement or further leave you exposed to further hazards.
When it comes to cleaning, simply sweeping or hosing down the area doesn’t solve the problem fully as it only deals with surface dirt and wont handle stubborn grime or deep-seated stains.
Booking a professional clean once or twice a year is essential for your outdoor space, as pressure washing pros have the right equipment and know how to get the job done.
Forgetting to Seal Repointed Walls
Another common mistake homeowners make is failing to correctly seal recently repointed brick walls or freshly rendered surfaces leaving them susceptible to water ingress. This allows water to get into the exterior walls of the property creating cracks, weakening it’s overall structure and facilitating the growth of mold and mildew. These hidden dangers escalate and quickly eroded the surface, which will cost money to fix.
Sealing repointed walls or render as soon as possible is vital to preventing moisture damage. A good sealant is like a strong barrier, preventing water ingress and protecting the property. Regular cleaning also plays a big part, as it removes dirt, algae, and mildew, which can break the seal and compromise the protection.
You can do this yourself with the right masonry or render sealant, but ensure you follow the instructions for best results. If you’re unsure, consider using a professional, their expertise will be unbeatable.
Endnote
When it comes to outdoor maintenance, small issues can grow into costly repairs and could cause irreversible damage if not attended to in time. Taking action earlier will protect your home, its value and your bank balance.
Remember, whilst a property shelters you from the elements it itself is exposed – but with regular maintenance you’ll be able to prevent costly damage and extend it’s life.
