As homeowners, we need to do many things to care for our homes and keep them in excellent condition. These can add up, from mowing the lawn each week, managing weeds, and keeping the grass green to everything you need to do indoors, such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc.
While homeownership is something to cherish, one thing homeowners often forget about is maintaining their homes. Though your siding should last about 20 years if you have vinyl (and more or less if you have a different type of siding), you need to care for it to make it last that long.
In this article, we’ll give you the inside scoop on how to make the best use of summer and care for your home siding.
5 Tips to Care For Your Home’s Siding
Maintaining your home’s siding does more than keep your house looking great and helping it last as long as possible. It helps improve your curb appeal and makes your home more inviting to guests and welcome visitors. Plus, a well-maintained home is often a deterrent to
thieves and would-be criminals.
So, with the summer season upon us, now is the perfect time to take extra steps to protect and care for your siding. Here are five helpful tips to help you keep your interior in great shape.
1. Walk Around Your House Every Month to Check for Damage
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your siding is to conduct a monthly inspection. Walk around your home and look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or loose panels. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems, saving you time and money in the long run. If you notice any damage, address it immediately to avoid further deterioration.
2. Clean Your Siding at Least Once Each Summer
Summer is the perfect time to clean your siding correctly. Use a garden hose and a soft-bristle brush to remove dirt, grime, and mold that can accumulate over time. Consider using a mild eco-friendly detergent or a specialized siding cleaner for tougher stains. Regular cleaning can grow your home’s appeal and help prevent long-term damage caused by dirt and moisture buildup.
3. Invest in Pet Control Services to Prevent Insect Infestations
Insects can wreak havoc on your siding, especially if you have wood siding. Invest in pest control services to protect your home and keep insects at bay. Termites, carpenter ants, and other pests can cause significant damage by burrowing into the siding or nesting in cracks and crevices. Regular pest control treatments can help protect your home interior and maintain its structural integrity, saving you a lot of money in the long run.
4. Take Care of Landscaping That Brushes Up Against the House
Overgrown bushes, trees, and vines can rub against your siding, causing scratches and trapping moisture, leading to rot and decay. Trim any plants in close contact with your home to enable proper airflow and reduce the risk of damage.
5. Keep Heat Sources Away from the home
Heat sources, such as grills, fire pits, and outdoor heaters, can cause big-time damage to your siding if placed too close to the house. High temperatures can warp or melt vinyl siding and scorch wood siding. Keep these items at a safe distance from your home to prevent accidental damage.
If you are unsure about safe distances, refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult a professional. As a rule of thumb, keep these items at least ten feet away from your home when they are in use until they are thoroughly cooled. Once cooled, keep these items at least two feet away whenever possible for added safety.
Need Help with Home Siding Maintenance?
If you find that your siding needs repairs or you need help with maintenance, the team at Advanced Roofing and Siding can help. Contact us today to protect your home investment.