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Your home’s exterior is constantly under attack from the elements – harsh sunlight, heavy rain, wind, and freezing temperatures all take their toll.
Over time, dirt, grime, and minor damage can snowball into bigger (and pricier) problems, reducing your curb appeal and even affecting your home’s value.
But don’t stress! A solid yearly maintenance routine can keep your home looking fresh while extending the life of expensive surfaces like concrete, siding, and roofing. This checklist will walk you through the essential tasks to keep your home strong and stunning for years to come.
Your driveway, sidewalks, patios, and pool decks accumulate dirt, mold, mildew, and stains throughout the year. This buildup doesn’t just look bad – it can become dangerously slippery when wet, increasing the risk of falls.
Related Resource: How To Clean Concrete [Step-by-Step Guide]
Pro Tip: After pressure washing, apply a penetrating sealer to protect the surface. A high-quality sealer lasts several years, reducing wear, preventing stains, and protecting against freeze-thaw damage.
Your home's exterior collects dust, pollen, mold, and mildew, and left unchecked, this can make it look aged and unmaintained. Here’s how to safely clean common exteriors:
Pro Tip: Check for cracked or loose siding, chipped paint, or gaps in mortar, and repair them before water or pests get in.
Poor grading around your home can lead to water pooling near the foundation, which can cause basement leaks and foundation damage like cracks and settling.
Check that the soil around your home slopes away from the foundation (ideally, a 6-inch slope over 10 feet). Add topsoil around the perimeter to get the desired slope.
Pro Tip: Install downspout extenders to direct rainwater at least 10 feet away from your home. The less water around your foundation, the better!
Windows add natural light and insulation – but if they’re not well-maintained, they can let in drafts, moisture, and even pests.
While you’re at it, check for condensation between double-pane windows – this signals a failed seal that may require professional repair or replacement.
Even small cracks in concrete can let water seep underneath, leading to erosion, further cracking, and sinking over time.
To fix it:
For a more blended look, mix sand and aggregate into the caulk to match your existing concrete.
Smooth the caulk for a seamless finish.Related Resource: How To Caulk Concrete - DIY Guide | Need help? Request a free estimate from an A-1 Concrete Leveling professional.
Gutters prevent water damage to your roof, foundation, and concrete slabs – but only if they’re free of debris!
Remove leaves, twigs, and sludge buildup twice per year, in the spring and fall. While you’re at it, ensure downspouts are clear and draining properly. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow onto concrete driveways, sidewalks, and patios, leading to erosion and settling.
Related Resource: How To Clean Your Gutters
If your driveway, patio, or sidewalk is sinking or uneven, it’s time to fix it before it becomes a trip hazard.
Addressing sunken concrete early prevents bigger problems down the road – and it’s much cheaper than a full slab replacement!
A damaged roof can lead to water leaks, costly repairs, and even mold growth inside your home.
Taking care of your home’s exterior might not be the most glamorous task, but trust us – it’s worth it! A few hours of upkeep each year can save you from costly headaches down the road.
So grab your gloves, make a checklist, and tackle these tasks one by one – your future self (and your home!) will thank you. If you need a hand with the heavy lifting (like fixing sunken concrete or sealing cracks) request a free estimate from an A-1 Concrete Leveling location near you!
Sarah Etler joined A-1 Concrete Leveling after receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Northern Kentucky University. As A-1's Content Marketing Manager, she works closely with industry experts to produce content that will best answer questions related to concrete repair and maintenance practices. Sarah loves living a life full of discovery and is excited every day to see what new things she can learn and share with those around her.
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