While most people focus on their home’s interior, it is just as important to keep the exterior properly maintained as well. Often times the outside of the house gets overlooked entirely. What most people don’t know is that properly maintaining your home’s exterior is crucial to the protection of your entire house.

Interior Protection

The exterior of your home is its protection from the elements. If not properly maintained, this can lead to water leaks in the walls, which can cause extensive damage in the form of mold, mildew, or even rotting. Even if water isn’t getting into your house as a result of poor maintenance, air could still be getting out. This will cause energy bills to rise as heat escapes during the winter and enters during the summer.

Roof Maintenance

Replacing your entire roof can be a costly venture, but it may be necessary. No roof is guaranteed for life. It is important to have you roof checked annually to make sure there are no loose or missing shingles, clogged gutters, or exposed nail heads. Having an annual inspection will also help prevent the pooling of water and water damage to your home.

Siding

Often times siding damage occurs from the inside out, and begins beneath the surface of a home’s exterior. If not detected early enough, this can lead to rotting, mold, and mildew. Before buying a home, it is important to have the siding inspected by a professional. A house that has experienced siding damage invisible to the untrained eye can end up costing thousands of dollars in siding repairs.

Gutter Upkeep

Gutter maintenance is crucial to protecting your home for many reasons. First and foremost, gutters that are properly maintained will help prevent basement leaks. Gutters and downspouts that aren’t positioned or cleaned our regularly can leave a home’s foundation at risk to water damage. Gutters can also help prevent siding rot. When debris begins to build up in gutters, moisture builds up, and fascia boards and roof framing become exposed to water for prolonged periods of time, which leads to rotting. Clogged gutters can also attract insects and mosquitos.

While properly maintaining your home’s exterior helps protect the entire home, it can also enhance curb appeal and value. It is important to regularly maintain your roof, siding, and gutters.