When keeping up on home maintenance, some things are more obvious than others. You probably look through most windows and open the front door or service access on the regular. But don’t forget about your home’s other door. The passageway to the patio, garden, or backyard area deserves attention, too. Here are some things to think about regarding patio door upkeep.

General Care

Keep your patio doors looking their best by regularly cleaning the glass. Dirt and grime become more difficult to remove the longer they’re on the surface.

Also, pay attention to the tracks. Lubricate and clean them as needed to keep the door opening smoothly and prevent rust build up. This is especially important because most patio doors open to outdoor recreation areas where dirt is more easily tracked in.

Check the jamb for any screws that may be loose. Secure them back in place but be careful that you don’t overtighten.

Keep an Eye Open

Like many things, patio doors can wear out or sustain damage. Watch for warning signs and consider repairing or replacing your home’s other door if you notice:

• Trouble operating. If the door sticks or is otherwise difficult to open or close, it may be warped and in need of replacement.
• Drafts or visual gaps. Check for adequate weather stripping to keep warm air inside and critters outside.
• Damage. Dings and scrapes are usually simple fixes, but structural damage to the door’s frame or glass could cause bigger issues.
• Moisture. An ineffective seal can allow rainwater, melting snow, or other moisture to get into your home.

If your patio door needs replacing, or even if you simply want to upgrade to a new look, the home exteriors experts at Spotless & Seamless can help. A new sliding or hinged patio door can add functionality, efficiency, and beauty to your home. Contact us today to learn about replacement options as you think about patio door upkeep.

Regular maintenance check-ups are useful for keeping just about anything – or anyone – in stable working order. This includes your house. Inspecting your home’s windows can help reveal any issues that need to be addressed before outside temperatures plummet. Stay one step ahead with these tips for late-summer window care.

Clean More Than the Glass

Standard household chores usually involve cleaning windows. Be sure to clean the non-glass areas as well. Dirt, dead insects, and other debris can collect in the sill or track and prevent an adequate seal, allowing conditioned air to escape. Check these areas thoroughly and clear them with a vacuum hose or soft brush, as needed.

Examine the Frame

A good coating of paint or stain can shield window frames from the harsh weather elements. But look for signs of deterioration, such as peeling or chipping, and plan accordingly for repair or replacement.

If the window frame can be repaired, follow these steps:

• Scrape off any loose paint or stain and sand the surface smooth. Take care to avoid scratching the glass.
• Wipe the frame with a rag to remove any dust.
• Prime the surface.
• Apply two coats of new paint or stain.

If you need to replace all or some of your windows, the installation experts at Spotless & Seamless Exteriors can help determine the best option for your home.

Look for Signs of Moisture

Storms or high humidity can cause moisture issues. Keep an eye out for cracked walls or floors or other damage in your home that could be signs of water damage. If you notice water seeping in around your windows, have a professional assess the situation and recommend a solution.

Fix Sticks and Strips

Open and close the windows to determine if any of them slide irregularly or stick. If you notice sticky windows, spray a dry cloth with a silicone-based lubricant and wipe the window tracks. Avoid applying the lubricant directly to the window, as this can be messy and leave a permanent mark.

Additionally, replace any missing or torn weather stripping and secure any pieces that have come loose.

Survey the Seals

Some of your cool air in the summer and warm air in the winter can escape because of poor air seals. Check for old, cracked caulking around your windows, especially in areas of direct sunlight or high-impact rain. Remove any defective caulking and replace it to create a tight seal.

Protect your home and be ready for changing temps with these tips for late-summer window care. Your Twin Cities home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless can answer your questions or discuss repair and replacement options for your home. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

When summer weather turns too tropical or ominous, we retreat to the indoors for comfort and safety. Your home protects you from the elements, but how do you protect it? Here are a few tips for the general maintenance of your home’s exterior as well as some things to consider as you prepare for the elements of summer weather.

Roofing

As a homeowner, you should be aware of suggestions for regular roofing care. These include:

• Basic roof inspection. Pay attention to missing or curled shingles that could indicate damage or inefficiency. This is especially important if you notice more than one area with signs of deterioration.
• Check interior ceilings. Stains in the attic or on interior ceilings can reveal water leaking in from the roof.
• Remove loose debris. If you have trees close to your home, be sure to remove any twigs, branches, leaves, or seeds from your roofline. These items can clog gutters and eventually lead to roof or interior water damage.

If you notice significant or repeated damage after summer’s heavy rains, hail, or gusting winds, the roofing professionals at Spotless & Seamless can help. We can assess minor or major issues to determine your needs.

Siding

Depending on the type of siding, your summer projects may include minimal or excessive home maintenance.

Wood siding can warp or rot when exposed to moisture, and Minnesota summers are often wet and humid. Additionally, the hot sun causes paint to chip, peel, or fade. Wood siding should be treated every four to six years for optimal appeal and protection.

Some siding products are installed in overlapped sections, which creates visible splices. These, in addition to holes or cracks in wood siding, are entry points for moisture and pests. Extreme summer heat and sun can sometimes make vinyl susceptible to warping, chalking, or fading.

If your home needs new siding or if you’re drained by the upkeep for your home’s current siding, consider going maintenance free with United States Seamless® Steel Siding. Spotless & Seamless is an exclusive franchisee in the Twin Cities area, and our home exteriors experts can answer your questions prior to installation.

Your home’s roofing and siding are critical elements for its protection – and the protection of your family. Keep an eye on what’s happening outside to safeguard what’s inside. Stay on top of routine maintenance and small repairs to avoid costly fixes down the road. If you do run into issues with roofing or siding, contact Spotless & Seamless with questions or concerns or to schedule a free estimate.