When it’s left unchecked, water can be a homeowner’s worst enemy.
No matter the season, your home will always be at the mercy of water. Whether it’s in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail, it’s a concern you need to take seriously all year round.
Over time, the damage water can do to your home’s exterior (and eventually its interior) can be catastrophic. That’s why it’s so important to protect your home from the damage that prolonged exposure to water can cause.
So how can you protect your home from the effects of water damage? Thankfully, there are many steps you can take to prevent water damage to your home’s exterior and reduce your chances of costly repairs. Here are just a few.
1. Keep Your Roof in Good Condition
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against water damage. Keeping it well maintained can save you a lot of money (and headaches) in the long run.
When water seeps through damaged roofing, it can cause leaks, allowing water to enter your attic or the upper floor of your home. In addition, when water is trapped beneath your shingles, it can lead to rotting and mold growth, which can cause health problems and structural damage.
Visually inspect your roof from time to time to check for missing, cracked, or loose shingles. Take a peek inside your attic as well to look for signs of leaks such as damp spots or water stains. It’s also vital to schedule regular roof inspections with a professional for a more thorough examination of your roof’s condition.
If damage is found — even minor damage — have repairs done promptly.
2. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
Your home’s gutters and downspouts are more important than you think. Even if your roof is in great condition, the rest of your house is still susceptible to water damage if you don’t have proper drainage.
A well-installed and properly-maintained gutter system ensures the correct flow of water off your roof. When your gutters are clogged, they can overflow, causing water to run down the sides of your home. This can lead to a variety of exterior problems, including foundation damage, flooding, mold growth, insect infestations, soil erosion, paint damage, and staining or rusting of your home’s exterior.
As Twin Cities siding professionals, we know that keeping your gutters clear of debris and properly directing water away from your home is essential to preventing exterior water damage. Clean out your gutters at least twice per year to keep this vital drainage system running properly.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
If window and door frames aren’t sealed properly, water can leak through them into your home.
Inspect windows and doors periodically to make sure the weatherstripping and seals are in good shape. Look for cracks or leaks in caulking as well as signs of water leaks like peeling paint, discoloration, or swollen frames. In addition, make sure all doors and windows close tightly without sticking (sticking can be a sign of potential foundation issues).
When you find damage, make repairs as needed. Apply new caulking to areas where the windows meet the siding. Insulating foam sealant can be used to fill minor cracks between door frames and the house. And fresh paint on wood window frames and doors will help protect the wood from water damage.
Wondering if you should update your windows? Learn the signs that it’s time to replace your windows in our recent blog.
4. Maintain Your Siding
Your siding is another feature that helps protect your home from water. But if there are cracks or holes in your siding, water can get in and cause a lot of damage.
Keep an eye out for siding damage like cracks, holes, gaps, or warping, paying particular attention to areas around pipes, vents, or wires. Look for signs of termites, mold, or rotting as well.
If you catch damage right away, you may be able to make repairs. If not, it may be time for a siding replacement.
Protect Your Investment With Help From Hoyt Exteriors
Your home is likely your biggest investment, and water damage is a sure way to decrease its value. Hoyt Exteriors can help you to safeguard that investment and prevent water damage to your home’s exterior by making sure your home is properly protected from the elements.
Give us a call today at 612-212-4965 for a roofing inspection, gutter cleaning, window replacement, or siding repair or replacement.