Summer Tips for Your Home’s Exterior

Summer is officially less than a week away! Here are five tips to make sure your home is summer-ready.

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Recaulk or replace damaged and energy inefficient windows. Energy inefficient windows can increase energy costs and cause your AC to work overtime. If recaulking is your best option, this How To is a great place to start. If replacing is necessary it’s worth noting that replacing inefficient windows can provide up to 75% return on investment according to the 2015 Cost vs. Value Report from remodeling.net.

Trim shrubbery and trees away from siding. During storms, wind and rain causes shrubs to rub against your home’s siding, which can cause damage to your siding, as well as your screens and windows. Trimming shrubs and trees 6-12 inches away from your home can prevent damage caused by storms and can minimize any pest or insect issues.

Check for damaged weatherstripping. Weatherstripping prevents energy leaks and drafts. When weatherstripping is damaged or worn out, heating and cooling costs increase and comfort decreases. Check for damage before extreme temperatures to prevent high energy costs and uncomfortable drafts.

Clean and reapply sealer as needed. Periodically cleaning and resealing your driveway ensures it will look its best for years to come. While it’s generally recommended that you clean and reseal your driveway every two years, timing can vary based on weather conditions and vehicle traffic. Always be sure to clean stains immediately.

Check for roof damage caused by ice. Ice dams, a common winter-weather worry, can damage both your roof and your home’s interior. To stop  energy loss and future ice dams, seal all warm air leaks, insulate your living space to prevent conduction and convection of heat through ceiling, and vent the space between the insulation and the roof sheathing, so any leaks are carried away.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, visit us today and talk to one of our knowledgeable professionals to discover the right fix for your budget and home.