With fall and winter right around the corner, NOW is a key opportunity for ensuring that your exterior paint is ready for the inclement weather ahead.
After all, paint is a lot more than a pretty face. It also is your first line of defense against moisture and pest intrusion, and helps to preserve the lifespan of the surfaces it protects. For all of these reasons, it’s important to make sure your paint is healthy and sound before the cold, wet weather strikes.
5 Ways To Protect Your Exterior Surfaces
Here are a few simple, practical tips to keep in mind:
- Inspect – A slow, purposeful walk around your home can tell you a lot. Look for failing or worn sections of paint that may need attention, as well as for signs of wood rot. Catching problems early is always the most cost-effective route to take.
- Clean – Power washing is a wonderful home improvement task for the spring, but it’s beneficial to go into the winter season with a clean slate too. Removing mold, mildew, and any buildup of dirt will help to preserve your paint.
- Caulk – Especially around windows, caulk provides a weathertight seal that keeps moisture out and your precious warm air in. Any crumbling, dry, or missing caulk should be replaced with a healthy, fresh application.
- Trim – Bushes and shrubs that brush up against your home can cause dry rot and/or stucco damage (depending on your home). Giving your landscaping a short haircut before winter can be hugely beneficial.
- Gutters – Clear gutters and downspouts can protect your home from a host of moisture issues, including interior water damage, foundation damage, ice dams, and more.
Collaborate with Your Local Painting Company
You can also hand this to-do list to a professional house painter, asking for help with proactively protecting and maintaining your home. As we mentioned above, ongoing care is the most cost-effective strategy you can employ, and it keeps your home perpetually looking its best, too.
If you live in the Portland area, contact us at Sundeleaf Painting! It would be our pleasure to serve you.
