At Prince & Sons, Inc. we’re constantly encountering issues that could have been avoided with a bit of preventative maintenance. Many homes in the Triangle area have been affected as a result of maintenance tasks being overlooked or postponed. In this blog we’ll showcase a few exterior maintenance tips that we, as local general contractors, consider to be essential for the preservation of one of your largest investments.
When is the last time your gutters were cleaned? If the answer is “more than a year ago”, you may have water damage. When gutters become full of debris, water can get behind them into your exterior trim boards. This water intrusion leads to wood rot, pest infestation, and other structural damages to your home. In many exterior home renovations we see issues where soffit, fascia and roof damage could have been prevented with simple gutter cleaning.
Are the edges of your roof looking notched and broken? Are your shingles beginning to curl? If the answer is yes, it may be time to call a roofing contractor to see if it’s time to repair or replace your roof. Proper roof maintenance can prevent frustrating roof leaks that can lead to water damage and even mold in your home if not handled appropriately and promptly.
Homes in the Triangle area are susceptible to foundation problems. As a home ages it may begin to settle causing cracks in the foundation as well as the interior walls. If you’re beginning to see evidence of cracking in your foundation or above the doors, the structure may be settling. Contact a licensed General Contractor to see if your home is in danger of further problems. A licensed General Contractor can determine whether an engineer should be consulted for the repair.
As we head into fall and winter, it’s time to think about how you can save energy during the colder months. One easy way to save money is by adding weather stripping to your doors. This simple DIY task can significantly reduce the amount of energy used in your home. Don’t spend money in the form of wasted energy when you can install weather stripping once and for all.
Prior to 1970 most homes were constructed with single paned windows. These windows were assembled with glazing on the exterior side of the pane. Over time the glazing deteriorates and cracks, allowing air to infiltrate around the edges of the glass. The air seepage results in a loss of energy. Window glazing can be replaced as an alternative to replacing the windows however replacement windows will improve the energy efficiency and appearance of your home.
We hope these exterior maintenance tips will help you to keep your home in great shape for years to come.
If you have any questions regarding any type of home renovation including:
Don’t hesitate to contact Prince & Sons today at 919-383-0888.