Fall Exterior Maintenance Checklist

Fall is a great time to perform some exterior maintenance to get the home ready for winter. Do you need to trim your trees? Do you need to check out your caulk and weather-stripping? Do you need Portland, OR replacement windows? These are some of the things to think about to ensure your home is ready to handle the cold weather ahead.

1. Trim Branches and Bushes

The plants and trees around your home probably grew throughout the summer. It might be time to trim off any diseased or low-hanging branches. You don’t want anything to fall on top of your roof during a winter storm. Not sure about the proper tactics for trimming a tree? You can hire a professional arborist to come and check things out for you.

2. Check the Attic and Roof

Run up to the attic and check for any obvious signs of leaks or mold. Then get the ladder out and climb up on the roof. Remove any debris. Then check for loose shingles that could result in a leak. You will want to get everything patched up before it gets too cold.

3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

While you have the ladder out, check the gutters and downspouts for signs of damage. This system is what moves water away from the foundation of your home. Be sure to remove any loose debris and use a plumber’s snake to clear out the downspouts so it doesn’t clog and cause damage.

4. Power Wash the Siding

Working from the top down, now it is time to clean the exterior walls. Probably a lot of dirt and debris built up over the summer. You can use a power washer to carefully remove most of the dirt. Just do not use the power washer to clean your windows and doors. This could damage the seals and cause both air and moisture leaks.

5. Inspect Caulk and Weather-Stripping

Speaking of air and moisture leaks, it is also important to check the seals around your windows and doors. These fenestrations should seal up tight if you hope to insulate your home and improve efficiency through the winter. If you notice any gaps you can easily make the repairs with products found at almost every home improvement store.

6. Clean and Inspect Your Windows

With the roof and walls cleaned and inspected, it is time to move on to the windows. Most modern windows have special features like tilt-in or removable sashes for safe and easy cleaning. All you need is some mild detergent and water to wash and rinse the frames. Then simply use a generic glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to make the windows shine.

7. Invest in Replacement Windows

While cleaning the windows you should perform a thorough inspection. Look out for any signs of damage including broken glass, mold growth, condensation between the frames, rust, or warping. Any one of these issues could signal that it is time to invest in replacement windows. This isn’t a project you want to put off for too long.

Are your windows ready for winter? If not, it might be time for Portland, OR replacement windows. Contact our experts today and schedule an appointment for a consultation.