Your home is one of your most valuable assets, and keeping it in top condition is essential for protecting your investment. Some of the most vulnerable areas of Fairfax homes are the roof, windows and siding, all of which are exposed to the elements around the clock. Outlined below are some tips for ensuring your roof, windows and siding stand the test of time.
Roof Maintenance
There are several ways that Fairfax homeowners can help their roof last longer. One step that many people overlook is gutter maintenance. Your gutters will only divert water away from the roof when they are in optimal condition, so they need to be checked regularly. Remove anything that is blocking them so they can continue to protect your roof from the dangers of accumulated water.
Avoid Roofing Moisture
In summer, moss and algae can grow on roofs in Fairfax. A professional roof cleaner can clear off any existing growth, while preventive products can be applied to ensure they do not reappear. Periodic cleaning is also essential to ensure leaves and debris do not build up on the roof.
Avoid Trees Leaning On Your Roof
Another important step for getting more mileage out of your roof is trimming any trees and branches that are in close proximity to it. Even branches that are not hanging over the roof directly could end up landing on it due to the high winds that are often seen in Northern Virginia during storm season.
After storms, it is essential to inspect your attic and roof for damage. Even the smallest leaks can quickly become catastrophic, and enlisting the services of a local roof inspector after a storm can help you avoid costly repairs in the future.
Window Maintenance
Proper window maintenance extends beyond regular cleaning. It is also important to keep your window tracks cleaned and lubricated. These areas of the window tend to attract dust and dead insects in Northern Virginia homes, and this debris can cause your windows to get stuck if it builds up over time. Clean the tracks with vinegar and cotton swabs, and then wipe them down using a silicone-based lubricant.
Avoid Window Moisture
If you notice an unusual level of moisture in your home, there could be cracks in your window’s glass, sealing or frame. These need to be repaired immediately. Visible cracks should also be addressed right away, even if they appear to be shallow, as they can get worse surprisingly quickly.
Protecting Your Window Frames
If your windows have wooden frames, they should be given a fresh coat of paint at the first sign of chipping. Paint protects the frames from the Fairfax weather and stops moisture from making its way into the wood. Vinyl frames need to be wiped down on a weekly basis using gentle soap.
It is also important to look for seams or holes in the caulking around your windows and fix them right away to ensure mildew, mold and moisture cannot make their way into the home. Be particularly vigilant at the bottom corners of the window.
Siding Maintenance
Keeping siding in top shape in Fairfax is relatively straightforward. The key to extending the lifespan of any type of siding is cleaning it regularly to remove the type of dirt and mildew that can threaten its longevity.
How To Maintain Your Siding
It is advisable to clean your home’s siding at least once a year. This is a project that can be completed in a weekend using warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Mildew may require an additional solution depending on the material of the siding. Experts recommend dividing the siding into 10-foot sections to make the project more manageable. Start from the top to avoid dripping dirty water onto clean siding.
Professional Siding Maintenance
Alternatively, you can hire professionals to clean your siding for a modest fee. They can typically complete the work with a power washer in under a day. If your home has two or more stories, it is best to trust the job to professionals who are trained in avoiding falls.
Do not rent a power washer and clean the siding yourself. These tools can loosen caulk, gouge wood and strip paint. They can also force water under the siding’s horizontal lap joints, which can lead to a dangerous accumulation of moisture behind your siding.
Professional Siding Repair
It is also important to inspect your siding for damage on a regular basis. For homes in Fairfax, this should be carried out at least once every season. Note that siding is particularly susceptible to water infiltration at the places where it meets doors, corner moldings and windows. Cracking or loosening caulk should be addressed immediately. Peeling paint or cracked boards on wood siding and crumbling mortar joints on brick siding all need to be repaired before attempting to clean the siding.
Reach Out to the Northern Virginia Exterior Home Contractors
Ensure your roof, siding and windows can stand up to the Fairfax weather with help from the Northern Virginia exterior home contractors at Adelphia Exteriors. Our customer-focused window, siding and roof services are carried out by licensed and insured professionals who strive to meet your long-term needs. Fill out our online contact form to schedule your free estimate today.