Exterior New Home Maintenance
After building your custom new home with Deer Ridge Construction, it’s important to know how to maintain it. Regular maintenance on your new home’s exterior will ensure it continues to look its best in your Pennsylvania neighborhood. There are some common tasks, like cleaning the gutters, and some that should be done every few years, like repainting the siding. Continue reading for a guide for the exterior new home maintenance you should keep up with.
Seasonal Maintenance
Seasonal maintenance should be completed at least twice a year. We recommend doing this in the spring and fall.
Clean Gutters
Gutters are vital for directing water away from your house. Clogged gutters will pool water on your siding, roof, and foundation, so they need to be cleaned to ensure proper drainage. Clean out any leaves, sticks, and debris from the gutters. We find it best to install gutter guards that trap debris and allow water to flow freely, making them easier to clean. After cleaning, make sure the gutters are securely fastened to the house and repair any broken seams with gutter sealant. Then double-check that the downspouts are directing water at least five feet away from the home’s foundation.
Repair Cracks
Repairing cracks in your home’s exterior helps prevent drafts and leaks, improving weather protection. The most important place to look is your home’s windows and doors, as these get used the most. Recaulk or apply weatherstripping to any cracks or holes you see, and clean the doors and windows while you’re at it. This will keep your home energy efficient and sealed from moisture, pests, and drafts.
Trim Landscaping
Unsightly landscaping can also cause water to pool around your home. If a tree or bush is touching your home’s roof or siding, moisture can build up and cause mold and mildew to grow or attract insects. Long branches can also damage the roof. Trim back overhanging trees, bushes, and shrubs away from the house to avoid any moisture damage.
Power Wash
Over time, mold, mildew, and dirt will build up on the house. Use a power washer on a low setting to clean these off. Vinyl and brick siding can be easily cleaned with a power washer. If your siding is wooden, we recommend gently cleaning it with a mild detergent and a soft brush. When power washing, make sure you’re cleaning the siding, deck, patio, and driveway to maintain your home’s appearance.
Yearly Maintenance
The tasks below should be done once a year. Yearly maintenance generally includes inspections and repairing any issues you see, especially after harsh weather events in Pennsylvania.
Inspect the Roof
The roof can take the most damage from harsh weather; inspecting it once a year will ensure it remains watertight. While inspecting, clear away heavy debris that can cause damage to the roof. Look for any broken or loose shingles, and replace if necessary. If places in the roof are sagging or you can see water stains, then the roof has damage that is bringing in moisture. Make the necessary repairs to ensure your home is watertight. Our team at Deer Ridge can help you repair your roof.
Inspect the Foundation
Foundation issues will usually require a professional to fix, but you should inspect it once a year to see if any repairs are needed. Check for any cracks in the foundation or hazards around the property line. Small cracks are common, but larger ones can cause the foundation to settle, which will need to be fixed by a professional.
Maintain Your Deck 
If you have a deck built with your new home, make sure to inspect it once a year as well. Check for loose boards, railings, or fasteners. Repair any damaged sections you see with new deck boards, and make sure the ledger board is firmly fastened to the house. Sweep the deck regularly to stop dirt from building up, and power wash it if needed. For a wood deck, apply a fresh sealant or stain to protect it from UV damage.
5-Year Maintenance
Some things can be done every few years to maintain your home’s curb appeal in Pennsylvania.
Repainting Siding
Paint on wooden siding can peel over time. Every five years or so, check the exterior paint for any peeling and touch it up. Repainting the siding provides extra protection against weather damage to prevent mold and mildew growth. It will also protect it from UV rays, so it won’t fade, warp, or crack as easily. This is the best way to breathe some new life into your home, as fresh paint will enhance your property’s curb appeal.
Remodeling Services
If you need a more in-depth siding or roof repair, or you want to give your home a new look, Deer Ridge Construction also does home remodeling! When your home is old or needs a refresh, we can give your home new life with an exterior remodel. We focus on re-roofing and re-siding, but we can also do a complete remodel if needed.
Build a New Home with Deer Ridge
Performing regular maintenance on your new home’s exterior prevents costly repairs down the line. If you need assistance with repairing your home or want to build a new home in Pennsylvania, Deer Ridge Construction has what you need. Check out our featured projects to see what we can do for you. If you’re ready to get started, contact us today!
