An evergreen aspect of homeowning is calculating when to update your home’s exterior. When that day comes, it’ll be time to call the pros. Homeowners can perform some of these tasks themselves, but most jobs require professional counsel.
Your exterior’s lifespan can be extended with routine upkeep. Depending on the material, siding can be repainted to offset fading due to harsh weather conditions, or worn down sections can be replaced in the case of insect and water damage. To replace the siding with the correct material, you should know the material that was when the house was built.
Vinyl, a common siding material, can take on 30 to 40 years of wear and tear. More durable options like stucco and steel can last longer than 40 years while fiber cement has been known to survive for over 100 years. Wood, a natural material, will typically last anywhere from 20 to 40 years depending on upkeep. Replacement is in order if there are any signs of condensation buildup, mold, or weather damage.
In the case of garage doors, your average door has a lifespan of 15-30 years depending on the material. Factors that shorten the lifespan include harsh weather conditions and heavy usage. Homeowners can prolong the life of their garage doors by replacing different parts as time goes on, such as rollers and weather seals, and providing standard routine maintenance.
Another exterior that often requires maintenance are gutters. Vinyl, steel and aluminum gutters can last 20 years without needing replacement, while copper gutters can survive for over 50 years. If the gutters are dilapidated, the water that should be moving away from the home’s foundation could be making its way into it, causing damaged wall components. It’s recommended that you clean your gutters twice a year depending on climate and weather. While cleaning, be aware of any punctures, rust, sagging or splitting.
Before embarking on this DIY project, review your homeowner’s insurance policy and seek help from professionals. For more information on even more home exteriors, please see the accompanying guide provided by CMB Garage Doors.
Infographic created by CMB Garage Doors, New Mexico specialists in garage door installation
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