By Kara Masterson
The exterior of our homes is exposed to various elements that can cause significant damage. It's important to be aware of these exterior wear and tear factors so that you can maintain your home's structural integrity. In this blog post, we will discuss the common factors that can break down your home's exterior and what you can do to prevent them from causing significant damage.
Extreme Weather
Extreme weather, such as heavy rain, wind, hailstorms, and snow, can cause severe damage to your home's exterior. These weather elements can cause your roof to leak, gutters to pull away from your home's exterior, and even damage to your home's foundation. The best way to prevent weather damage is to schedule regular inspections by a professional roofing contractor. They can identify potential damage and provide the necessary repairs before it escalates into a bigger problem.
UV Rays
The effects of UV rays on a home's exterior can be damaging and unsightly. Constant exposure to UV rays can lead to fading, cracking, and peeling of the paint and wood finishes on the outside of a house. Preventing this damage is crucial, and homeowners can do so by using high-quality paint that is specifically formulated for outdoor use. Additionally, applying a coat of UV protection on top of the paint can further protect the home's exterior from the sun's harmful rays. Taking these preventative measures not only helps maintain the aesthetics of a home, but it also prolongs the lifespan of its exterior finishes.
Overgrown Vegetation
Overgrown vegetation can pose a serious threat to the structure of your home. The roots of trees and plants can cause cracks and other forms of damage to your home's foundation if left unchecked. Therefore, it's imperative that homeowners take preventative measures to keep their greenery well-maintained. It's recommended that trees are kept a safe distance away from your home's foundation and that their roots are not allowed to penetrate it. By taking these simple steps, you can protect your home from the potential damages associated with overgrown vegetation.
Poorly Installed Features
Poorly installed exterior features such as windows and doors can seriously threaten your home's structural integrity. When exterior features are not installed correctly, water can easily penetrate your home's interior and cause extensive damage that can be costly to repair. To avoid this, it is essential to ensure that your doors and windows are installed correctly and that the installation site is well-sealed to prevent water from sneaking in. By taking these steps, you can help preserve the value and integrity of your home for years to come.
Lack of Maintenance
Without proper maintenance, a home's exterior can begin to suffer. Broken windows, cracked driveways, and broken shingles are just a few examples of problems that can arise. These issues not only impact the property's curb appeal but can also lead to costly repairs over time. To avoid facing these unnecessary expenses, it's important for homeowners to regularly inspect the exterior of their home and address any minor issues before they become major problems, such as replacing broken shingles, filling cracks in their pavement, and getting a window replacement as soon as possible. With diligent upkeep and attention, homeowners can extend the life of their property while maintaining its value and appearance.
Foundation Issues
When it comes to maintaining the integrity of your home, foundation issues should never be ignored. These problems can lead to severe damage to your home's structure and cost you a significant amount of money. If you suspect your home's foundation is damaged, contacting a professional contractor immediately for structural foundation repair is crucial. They will be able to assess the damage and provide an effective solution to fix the problem. The sooner you address foundation issues, the better you can prevent further damage. Remember, your home's foundation is the backbone of your property, and it's vital to keep it sturdy and safe.
In summary, maintaining your home's exterior is just as important as maintaining its interior. Being aware of external wear and tear factors such as extreme weather, UV rays, overgrown vegetation, poorly installed features, a lack of maintenance, and foundation issues is essential. Scheduling regular maintenance can help to prevent external wear and tear factors from causing significant damage to your home's exterior, which can be costly to repair. Remember, prevention is better than cure.
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from Utah. She enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her family. If you are looking for a professional roofer, Masterson recommends contacting Precise Roofing & Contracting.
