What Are the Most Common Exterior Repairs and How to Tackle Them

Home exterior maintenance does not come very often, but when it does, it can be tedious work. From cleaning and repairing siding to replacing windows and doors, many different projects need to be undertaken to keep your house looking its best.

But understanding what types of repairs you may face, as well as how to tackle them, can make these tasks much easier. 

In this article, we will discuss some of the most common exterior repairs homeowners face and provide helpful tips on how best to approach each one so that you can ensure your home is looking great for years to come.

Exterior Repairs 1

Cleaning and Repairing House Sidings

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your siding will help to keep it looking its best. If you’re dealing with any chips, cracks, or other damage, use some spackling compound to fill in the gaps before painting over them.

In fact, a large portion of home siding repairs is as simple as a coat of paint. Before you start painting, however, make sure to inspect the siding for any more extensive damage that may require replacement.

However, you will want to be sure to use paint designed for outdoor use and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to best apply it.

A lot of house sidings are now made of vinyl, which is a much more durable and easier material to work with. Cleaning it requires nothing more than a washcloth or soft brush, warm water, and mild soap.

You can also use a pressure washer on your house siding as well but be careful not to damage the material by using too much force.

Replacing Windows & Doors

Older windows and doors can start to warp or become drafty due to age and wear and tear, so they may need replacing at some point.

Be sure to measure carefully before buying new replacements so that they fit properly into the existing frames. Replacing existing windows and doors is fairly straightforward, but you may want to enlist the help of a professional installer if it’s something you don’t feel comfortable tackling yourself.

Furthermore, if you’re looking to upgrade your windows and doors for energy efficiency, there are many options available that can help reduce your utility bills over the long term.

One of the trickiest things about replacing windows and doors is the caulking. If the old caulking has started to crack or peel, you’ll want to remove it before adding the new caulk.

Apply a generous amount of caulk around the window or door frame, making sure that it’s evenly distributed, and all gaps are filled in.

Exterior Painting

Applying a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to make an old house look new again! Always prep your surface by scrubbing off dirt and mildew first then choose a quality exterior paint that can hold up against harsh weather changes without fading too quickly.

A lot of paints are actually water-resistant and will help protect your home from the elements. On the other hand, if you’re looking to make your exterior stand out, there are many paints available in various colors and textures that can help give it a unique look.

If you don’t have time to tackle all of these exterior repairs yourself, there are plenty of professionals that specialize in this type of work.

While it may cost a bit more upfront, it can often be worth it for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is in good hands.

Gutter Maintenance & Repairs

Keeping gutters clean from debris buildup is essential for preventing water damage around your home’s foundation – plus it helps prevent future repairs from being needed down the line!

Use a ladder or gutter scoop tool for quick removal; if there are any damaged sections needing repair be sure to get those fixed as soon as possible. It’s also important to check for any leaks or clogs which can cause water buildup and eventually lead to foundation issues.

Gutters are often quite affordable to replace, so if yours has seen better days it may be worth considering replacing it entirely. Keep in mind that you’ll need to take extra precautions when working on a ladder around your home, especially if the gutters are located higher up.

Overall, exterior repairs should not be taken lightly, and it is important to address any issues as soon as possible. Whether you choose to do the work yourself or hire a professional, taking care of these items can help protect your home from further damage in the future.

From painting sidings, replacing windows and doors, gutter maintenance, and more – there are many elements involved when it comes to making sure that your house looks its best on the outside.

With some time invested into regular upkeep and repair projects, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your home is properly maintained for years to come!

Julie Higgins
Author
Julie is a Staff Writer at momooze.com. She has been working in publishing houses before joining the editorial team at momooze. Julie's love and passion are topics around beauty, lifestyle, hair and nails.