Exterior paint check
While most of us can spot a home badly in need of a paint job, did you know that there are more subtle signs that your home could use a freshen up?
Paint is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. A good paint job can protect your house from sun damage and water intrusion among other things, along with preventing dirty looks from your neighbors. Here’s how to keep an eye on your home’s exterior and extend the life of your paint job.
COLOR CHECK
One of the first and most obvious things that you can observe when it comes to your home’s paint job is to check out the color of the paint. Is the color consistent around your home or is it lighter or darker in spots? While discoloration can just be a reminder that time has passed and it’s time to repaint, it may also mean that you have paint degradation.
Degradation can be bubbling, cracking, flaking, or peeling. These red flags typically point to weather exposure, water damage, or a poorly applied paint job. If you have an area of your home where it is especially prone to sun exposure, the life of your paint may not be as long. If your paint job is looking rough more quickly than expected, it might be time to investigate further.
Most homes need to be painted every 7 to 10 years, but vary by region, sun exposure, exterior materials, and paint quality. If you’re noticing wear and tear on your paint or you’re at the end of your paint job’s useful life, it might make sense to go ahead and chat with a professional. If your siding is still in great shape but you could use a refresh in a small area, touch-ups can be a DIY job with the right planning and materials.
SEAL IT UP
While you can pick up a tube of caulk at your local hardware store for less than $10, don’t let the cheap price fool you: it’s the MVP of protecting your home from damage!
Caulk creates a smooth transition between objects — typically two pieces of siding or siding and a window — and prevents dust, dirt, and water from seeping between. This rigid seal is what prevents water damage that often appears in your paint job as discoloration.
Walk around your home and check the caulk around your windows and in between siding. It should have a rigid seal. If your caulking has cracks or is not adhered to your home, it’s no longer sealing out water.
If you touch caulking and it has lost elasticity and the beads are hard and resistant when you press down, it’s time to check for damage and recaulk.
WASH IT OFF
If your paint and caulk are in good shape, but your home is lacking pizazz it might be time to give it a bath! A gentle pressure washing or a scrub and hose down can remove dirt and grime and make your home look fresh and new.
This is a task that should be completed at least annually for most homes. Consult the manufacturer of your home’s exterior covering to check their recommendation for maintenance. Generally, most siding types can be cleaned with gentle pressure washing, but homes with wood siding, lead paint, or brick homes with old mortar should avoid this task.
If you decide to DIY this task, please be sure to avoid pressure washing your windows and electrical panels, and meters.
GOOD JOB
Yay! You’ve completed your exterior check. We hope that you got great news and that you have several more years of picture-perfect paint.
If not, it’s time to come up with a game plan.
Do you have minor issues that you want to DIY? Go ahead and add it to your maintenance calendar so you don’t forget it! Here’s how.
Have major issues or don’t have the time to look into it? We can help!