Plan ahead for your exterior maintenance.

Author - Pat Bentley

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Plan ahead for your exterior maintenance.

Now the days are starting to get a bit lighter and Spring is just around the corner (famous last words) it is an ideal time to have a good look at the exterior of your property and see what maintenance work needs to be done. Check windows, sills, doors and fascias for any paint blistering, peeling or cracking. If you find areas that are showing these symptoms this means that moisture is getting into the wood underneath and will eventually cause rot within.

The ideal time to re coat exterior surfaces of your property is Spring, Summer and early Autumn. All flaking and defective decorative coatings need to be scraped back and the wood underneath needs to be completely dry before repainting. If it is not dry and is painted over then the warmth of the sun will in effect just steam the moisture inside- leading to early paint failure and probable rot.

If you have external render check for flaky/powdery areas and cracks. Also look for areas covered with algae. The sooner you nip these problems in the bud the more financial sense it makes- spend a little now, or end up having to spend alot later when these problems have spread.


Finding a decent tradesman/woman  to do this work should not be that difficult, though I have heard and seen some horror stories from people, who have in good faith employed someone who has the attitude " if you can p*** you can paint".

Try to get two or three  written quotes for the work you want done. Make sure they detail exactly what it is you are paying for and what preparation is involved.Preparation takes time but is key to a long lasting quality finish. Also specify what materials are to be used and that they are of a specific quality- not the cheapest substitute available. With materials you really do get what you pay for.

Whoever you decide to use do not be afraid to be" picky".  Before you pay any money check the work over(snagging) make sure everything is done to your satisfaction and if you have any niggles bring it to the attention of your decorator- a good one will be only too pleased to put things right and be able to leave your property in the knowledge that you are totally satisfied with the work they have done.

/pat-bentley.html A good decorator will enhance your home/work environment, protect your most valuable asset and save you money on maintenance in the long term.