Exteriors Home Improvement real estate

Why First-Time Homebuyers Should Pay Attention to Exterior Maintenance in the First Year

In the new house, you can face some problems. Many show up on the outside of your home. Catching small problems early is very important. It saves you money later. It also keeps your home looking great. This guide walks you through the most common issues. You will learn easy ways to handle them.

Grime Builds Up on Siding Fast

Your home’s siding gets dirty quickly. Dust from the road sticks to it. Pollen from trees coats the surface. Dirt on your siding could be trapping water. Mold may grow as a result of that moisture. Paint may bubble and peel as a result. Inspections of siding should occur every few months. Wash it with a garden hose and a soft brush. Use a mild cleaning solution. See an expert who offers Liberty Lake house washing services for stains that won’t go away. Your home’s structure is protected by clean siding.

Algae on Slick Paths and Patios

Watch your step. Walkways often get slick. A green or black film grows on them. That is algae. It loves shade and dampness. It is a major slipping hazard. The problem gets worse with rain. You can clean it yourself.  Sweep your paths often. This removes wet leaves. It stops algae from taking hold. Quick action keeps everyone safe.

Driveways Get Stained Easily

Look at your driveway. You will see stains. Oil leaks from cars leave dark spots. Tire marks show up. Weathering causes discolorations. These stains sink into the concrete. They become permanent over time. Act fast when you see a new stain. Use a concrete cleaner or degreaser. Scrub the spot well. Consider sealing the driveway. Do this after a good cleaning. Sealant blocks stains and water. It makes the driveway last longer.

Gutters Fill Up With Debris

Do not forget your gutters. They are crucial. Leaves and pine needles clog them fast. A clogged gutter cannot do its job. Water spills over the sides. This damages the roof edge. It ruins your siding. Water can also pool by your foundation. That causes basement leaks. This simple chore prevents very expensive repairs.

Seals Around Doors and Windows Shrink

The seals around your doors and windows shrink. This is called weather stripping. It also cracks. This happens in the first year. It lets in cold air. It also lets in rain and bugs. Check these seals every season. Pull off the old, cracked material. Press the new stripping into place. It is cheap and easy. Your home will be more comfortable. Your heating bill may even go down. Look at the white sealant around windows. Look where siding meets trim. This is caulk. Sun and cold make it brittle. It cracks and pulls away. 

The Ground Around Your House Settles

The dirt around your home settles. This happens after construction. It can change how water drains. Water must flow away from your foundation. If the ground sinks, water pools near the house. This is very bad. It can crack the foundation. It can flood your basement. Check the soil slope. It should angle away from your home. Add more dirt if needed. Create a small mound. This directs rain away from your house.

Conclusion

Your wood deck and fence need care. Sun and rain turn the wood gray.  Wash it with a gentle cleaner each season. For a deep clean on siding or wood, consider Liberty Lake house washing services.  It keeps your outdoor spaces looking new. Apply a new bead of exterior caulk. Smooth it with your finger. This keeps your walls dry and solid.

 

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