How to Maintain Your Home Exterior: FAQ
You have exterior house maintenance questions, and we have the answers.
When it comes to home exterior maintenance, we get a lot of Frequently Asked Questions. Is it safe to pressure wash vinyl siding? Do I need to seal my deck every year? What kind of paint should I be using? In this blog post, we will answer some of the most common questions about home exterior maintenance, and provide our industry expert advice on how to keep your home looking its best!
When should I repaint my home exterior?
You should typically repaint your home's exterior every three to seven years. This will depend on your local climate, the quality of paint that was used originally, and what type of siding you have. If you notice any peeling or chipping, it’s time to repaint.
- Wood: 3-7 years
- Stucco: 5 years
- Aluminum: 5 years
- Vinyl: 5-10 years
- Fiber-cement: 10-15 years
- Brick: 15+ years
Can I paint brick?
Depending on the type of paint and the condition of the bricks, painting brick can be a great option for updating the look of your home.
Bricks are naturally porous, so they need to be cleaned thoroughly before painting. This removes any buildup that would keep the paint from adhering properly, and then a primer designed specifically for masonry should be applied.
When choosing a paint color, it’s important to keep in mind that darker colors will absorb more heat, making the surface of the brick hotter. You'll want to choose a paint that is specifically designed for use on brick surfaces, and take the amount of direct sunlight into consideration.
Why is the paint peeling off the side of my house?
It's one of the most frustrating things that can happen to a homeowner: you notice that the paint on the side of your house is starting to peel! Not only is it unsightly, but it can also lead to further damage if left unchecked.
So why does paint peel, and what can be done to prevent it? There are a few different reasons why paint may start to peel, but the most common one is simply age. Paint can only withstand so much weathering before it starts to break down, and over time, even the best-quality paint will eventually succumb to the elements. UV exposure, moisture, and extreme temperatures can all contribute to paint deterioration.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to prolong the life of your paint job and prevent peeling. First, make sure to use high-quality paint that is specifically designed for the surface you're painting. Second, be sure to properly prep the surface before painting, and third, apply a top coat of paint every few years to protect the underlying paint job.
If the paint is peeling or bubbling on the outside of your home, don't delay in getting it fixed, otherwise, it could be costly to repair later.
Is it safe to pressure wash the outside of my house?
Whether or not you should pressure wash the outside of your house depends on a few factors. First, consider the type of siding you have. If you have vinyl siding, pressure washing is generally safe and can be beneficial in removing dirt and debris. However, if you have older wood siding, pressure washing can damage the finish. In addition, be sure to check for any cracks or holes in your siding before pressure washing, as this can allow water to seep in and cause further issues.
Always use a low-pressure setting when pressure washing your house to avoid any potential damage, and point the nozzle away from any windows or doors to avoid breaking the glass.
If you’d rather leave the dirty work to someone else, give us a call to get a free quote for affordable home pressure washing in your area.
My home's exterior is starting to look a bit dated - what can I do to update it without spending too much money?
One of the best ways to update the look of your home's exterior without spending a lot of money is to simply give it a fresh coat of paint. You can choose a new color that complements the existing style of your home, or go for a completely different look. Either way, a fresh coat of paint is an easy and relatively inexpensive way to give your home's exterior an update.
Another option is to replace any old or damaged siding. This can be a bit more expensive, but if your siding is in bad shape, it can definitely make a big difference in the overall look of your home.
And lastly, don't forget about the little things! Taking care of small details like trim work, gutters, and landscaping can go a long way in making your home's exterior look its best.
Does my house have lead paint?
If your house was built before 1978, there's a good chance it has lead paint. Lead paint was commonly used in homes before that year, but it has since been banned due to its health hazards. When lead paint starts to deteriorate, it releases harmful dust or fumes that can be damaging to your health.
If you live in an older home and are concerned about lead paint, you may wish to have your home tested. Lead paint removal is a complex process, and it's best to leave it to the professionals.
What kind of paint should I use on my home exterior?
The type of paint you use on your home exterior depends on the type of siding you have, and the look you’re going for. For example, if you have wood siding, you'll want to use a paint that is specifically designed for that material and provides weatherproofing. The same goes for other types of siding, like vinyl, stucco, or aluminum, which all take to paint differently.
In addition to choosing the right type of paint, it's also important to make sure you start with a good primer and then use high-quality paint. This will help to prolong the life of your paint job, as well as prevent peeling and premature aging due to the elements.
When in doubt, let us help you choose the right type of paint and give you tips on what will work best for your home.
How often should I seal my deck to protect it from the elements?
It's important to regularly seal your deck to protect it from the elements. Depending on the type of wood your deck is made of, you'll need to seal it every one to three years.
Be sure to use a good quality sealer that is specifically designed for outdoor use, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Also, be sure to clean your deck thoroughly before sealing it - otherwise, you may end up trapping dirt and debris under the sealant.
My home has a stucco exterior - how do I maintain it?
Stucco is a durable material that doesn't require a lot of maintenance. However, it's important to keep an eye on any cracks or holes, as these can allow water to seep in and cause damage, or even become a home for nasty pests!
If you do find any cracks or holes, be sure to patch and seal them as soon as possible. In addition, be sure to clean your stucco regularly to remove any dirt or debris that may have built up over time. Neglecting to keep your stucco clean could result in unsightly stains and discoloration.
Stucco should be painted about every 5 years, which will keep it in pristine condition for years to come.
Final Thoughts
If you have any questions about home exterior maintenance that we didn't cover in this blog post, please feel free to contact us and we would be happy to help!