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Year-Round Exterior Home Maintenance: A Seasonal Guide to Preserve Your Siding, Roofing, Windows, Gutters, and Patio Covers

Writer's picture: BN Covered ExteriorsBN Covered Exteriors

Maintaining your home's exterior is crucial for ensuring longevity, preserving curb appeal, and avoiding costly repairs. Each season brings unique challenges that can impact your siding, roofing, windows, gutters, and patio covers. By following a seasonal maintenance guide, you can protect your investment and keep your home looking its best all year round.


Spring: Refresh and Revitalize

Spring is the perfect time to assess any damage from the winter months and prepare your home for warmer weather.

  • Inspection: Check for any cracks, warping, or discoloration that may have occurred during winter.

  • Cleaning: Use a mild detergent and a soft brush to clean dirt, mold, and mildew from your siding. For composite siding, like Alside, a gentle wash will help maintain its appearance and integrity.

  • Repairs: Address any minor issues before they become larger problems. Repaint or replace damaged sections as needed.

  • Inspection: Look for loose or missing shingles, especially after heavy winds or storms.

  • Gutter Cleaning: Clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.

  • Repairs: Schedule professional repairs for any damaged roofing materials, particularly if you notice leaks or water damage inside your home.

  • Cleaning: Clean windows inside and out to remove winter grime. Inspect caulking and weather stripping for wear and tear.

  • Repairs: Replace damaged seals or weather stripping to improve energy efficiency.

  • Cleaning: Remove dirt and debris that may have accumulated during winter. Power wash if necessary.

  • Inspection: Check for any structural damage or loose connections, and tighten or repair as needed.


Summer: Protect and Enhance

Summer’s warm weather provides the opportunity to focus on protection and enhancements.

1. Siding:

  • Painting: If you’re planning to repaint your siding, summer is the ideal time. Be sure to choose a high-quality exterior paint that will stand up to the sun’s UV rays.

  • Sealing: Apply a protective sealant to composite siding to extend its lifespan and resist moisture.

2. Roofing:

  • UV Protection: Consider applying a reflective coating to your roof to protect it from the harsh summer sun and reduce cooling costs.

  • Ventilation: Ensure your attic has proper ventilation to prevent heat buildup, which can damage roofing materials.

3. Windows:

  • UV Protection: Install UV-blocking window films or shades to protect interior furnishings and reduce cooling costs.

  • Inspections: Check for any cracks or chips in the glass that may have been caused by extreme temperature fluctuations.

4. Gutters:

  • Check for Leaks: Inspect gutters for leaks or sagging sections, and make repairs as needed to ensure proper water flow.

  • Gutter Guards: Consider installing gutter guards to prevent debris from accumulating and reducing the need for frequent cleaning.

5. Patio Covers:

  • Shade Additions: If your patio cover isn’t providing enough shade, consider adding a retractable awning or outdoor curtains for additional protection from the sun.

  • Maintenance: Check for any signs of rust or corrosion on metal parts and treat them promptly.


Fall: Prepare and Protect

As temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to prepare your home for the upcoming winter.

1. Siding:

  • Inspection: Check for any new damage that may have occurred over the summer. Look for signs of moisture infiltration, such as peeling paint or warping.

  • Cleaning: Give your siding one last wash to remove dirt and mildew before winter.

2. Roofing:

  • Leaf Removal: Clear leaves and other debris from your roof and gutters to prevent clogs and ice dams.

  • Insulation Check: Ensure your attic is properly insulated to reduce heat loss and prevent ice dams from forming.

3. Windows:

  • Weatherproofing: Replace worn weather stripping and apply caulk to seal any gaps around windows. This will help keep your home warm and energy-efficient.

  • Storm Windows: If you have storm windows, install them before the first frost to provide an extra layer of insulation.

4. Gutters:

  • Final Cleaning: Clean gutters thoroughly before winter to prevent blockages that can lead to ice dams and water damage.

  • Check Downspouts: Ensure downspouts are directing water away from your foundation to prevent flooding.

5. Patio Covers:

  • Winterization: Remove or secure any fabric or removable parts that could be damaged by snow or ice. Consider adding weatherproof covers for additional protection.

  • Structural Check: Inspect the structure for any vulnerabilities that could be exacerbated by winter weather.


Winter: Protect and Monitor

Winter’s cold and snowy conditions require ongoing vigilance to protect your home’s exterior.

1. Siding:

  • Snow Removal: Keep snow from piling up against your siding, especially if you have wood or composite materials, to prevent moisture damage.

  • Inspection: After storms, inspect siding for any new cracks or damage caused by ice or wind.

2. Roofing:

  • Snow and Ice Removal: Safely remove excess snow from your roof to prevent ice dams. Use a roof rake or hire a professional to avoid damaging shingles.

  • Attic Check: Regularly check your attic for signs of leaks or water damage during thawing periods.

3. Windows:

  • Condensation Control: Use a dehumidifier to reduce condensation on windows, which can lead to mold growth.

  • Ice Prevention: Apply a window insulation kit or frost guard to help keep ice from forming on the inside of your windows.

4. Gutters:

  • Ice Dam Prevention: Keep gutters clear of ice to prevent water from backing up and causing damage to your roof and siding.

  • Heat Cables: Consider installing heat cables in your gutters to keep them free of ice in particularly cold regions.

5. Patio Covers:

  • Snow Load Management: Regularly remove snow from your patio cover to prevent structural damage. Be careful not to scratch or damage the material.

  • Inspection: Check for any signs of stress or damage during the winter months, particularly after heavy snowfall.



By following these seasonal maintenance tips, you can keep your home’s exterior in top shape year-round. Regular inspections and timely repairs will not only extend the lifespan of your siding, roofing, windows, gutters, and patio covers but also enhance your home’s energy efficiency and curb appeal.


If you think it might be time to replace your Roofing, Siding, or Windows, BN Covered Exteriors is here to assist with all your exterior remodeling needs in the Tri-Cities, Washington area.




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