Just Bought a House? 10 Exterior Maintenance Tips Need to Know

Stepping into your first home is exciting, but it also comes with a whole new set of responsibilities—especially outside. If you’re like me, you might not have realized just how much goes into keeping the exterior of your home in shape.

Proper maintenance prevents pricey problems and keeps your place safe and sound. Whether it’s battling the elements or just regular upkeep, here are 10 essential exterior maintenance tips that every new homeowner should know.

Keep Your Lawn Looking Great

A healthy lawn is like a good haircut—it makes everything else look better. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing are the basics, but don’t overlook those bald spots. Reseeding them will keep your yard’s green uniform. Your lawn sets the stage for barbecues and barefoot days, so keep it lush and inviting.

Wash Your Home’s Siding

Keeping your siding clean is important for protecting your home from the relentless buildup of dust, grime, and mildew. These elements might not catch your eye immediately, but over time, they can give your home a worn, dingy appearance.

Hiring professionals to wash your siding is a smart move. They use the right techniques to clean thoroughly without damaging the material. After a professional wash, you should be able to spot potential issues much more easily.

Seal Your Concrete

Concrete might be tough, but it’s not invincible. It’s porous, which means without proper care, it can wear down quicker than you’d expect. Sealing your concrete not only extends its life but also maintains its look. Doing this every now and then wards off cracks and keeps impurities at bay, which could save you from hefty repair bills down the line.

If you’re feeling really ambitious, think about adding a stain during the sealing process to boost your driveway’s visual appeal.

Look After Your HVAC

Think of your HVAC as the heartbeat of your home’s comfort. Keeping air filters clean and changing them out when they’re clogged can save you a ton on energy bills and prevent unexpected repairs. Make sure the area around outdoor units is debris-free too.

Trim Overgrown Greenery

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-trimmed yard. Overgrown branches and unruly shrubs can be real hazards, especially during stormy weather. Keeping them in check prevents potential damage to your home’s exterior and promotes healthier plant growth.

Refresh Exterior Paint

Your home’s exterior paint does more than just look good—it’s a crucial shield against moisture. To prevent water damage, keep an eye on your paint job. Spot chipping or peeling? It’s time for a touch-up. Regularly maintaining the paint can extend its life and keep your home looking fresh.

For those with wood siding, watch out for discoloration or swelling that might indicate hidden wood rot. Poke suspect areas with a screwdriver. If the wood feels soft, you might need to address rot. Catching it early means a simpler fix, usually involving drying out the wood and applying a preservative.

Check Windows and Skylights

Windows and skylights need an annual check-up to keep them working right and to prevent leaks. Make it a habit to inspect them thoroughly, especially after big storms. Look for any signs of trouble like leaks, cracked frames, or damaged weather-stripping. These can lead to bigger issues if ignored.

Don’t overlook the caulk or sealant—these are your first defense against water. If you see gaps or cracks in the sealant, it’s time to reseal. Keeping these barriers intact is crucial for preventing water from sneaking into your home and causing expensive damage.

Inspect Your Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so give it the attention it deserves. Regularly check for missing or damaged shingles and any other signs of wear. Catching and addressing these issues early can save you from the headaches of leaks and costly water damage later on.

Keep Bugs Out

Here’s a quick heads-up: pests can sneak in before you know it. If you’re in a bug-friendly zone, it might be worth having a pro give your house a once-over to keep it sealed tight.

And don’t forget the simple stuff—like patching up those little gaps around your windows. It’s a bit like setting up a no-entry sign for creepy crawlies. Regular peeks into the back of your cabinets or behind furniture can catch any unwelcome squatters early, saving you a bigger headache later.

Clean Those Gutters

Gutters are your home’s unsung heroes, quietly protecting your foundation from water damage. But they fill up with leaves and muck faster than you’d think, especially if you’ve got trees overhead.

To keep everything flowing smoothly, make it a routine to clear out your gutters every spring and autumn. It’s an easy job, but skipping it could lead to water backing up and some serious problems for your house.