Don’t underestimate the power of clean siding, sparkling windows, or newly painted trim. Home maintenance and curb appeal go hand-in-hand. Maintaining your property announces to anyone visiting or even passing by, that your home is cared for. It really doesn’t take much time or effort to improve your curb appeal just by cleaning your home exterior.
Clean Sweep the Roof
Start spring cleaning your curb appeal by sweeping the roof. If it hasn’t been cleaned in a while, there will be an accumulation of dirt and debris. Applying water first can create more of a mess, since dirt plus water usually equals mud. Especially if you have an asphalt roof, a soft bristle broom will get the job done without damaging the shingles.
If the roof is over ten years old and hasn’t been inspected by a professional roofer within the last two years (or ever), it is recommended that you don’t use a power washer. To rinse away sudsy water or a cleaning solution that has been applied to the roof, use a garden hose with a pistol grip nozzle.
Cleaning the Gutters Outside
It doesn’t take much: a little soap and water and some quality time with a soft cloth or a soft-bristle brush will remove the grime and dirt from the surface of the gutters. Tiger striping is the result of moisture on the gutter rim or lip where it interacts with pollutants such as dirt, pollen, and asphalt shingle granules and forms drops large enough to run down the front of the gutter trough. While black streaks do detract from the overall curb appeal of your home’s exterior, they also can be responsible for damaging the protective coating that ensures the gutters’ lifespan.
Cleaning the Gutters Inside
Without gutter cleaning at least twice a year, a gutter system becomes clogged and dysfunctional. True, gutters filled with leaves, twigs and debris can’t be seen from the street. But when the gutter system overflows, it can mess with your curb appeal – stained siding, water-damaged shingles, and rotting or worn window and door trim.
Keep the Siding Clean
Dirt, grime, pollen residue, cobwebs, algae, and mildew can build up over the months and years, dulling the siding of your home. If you look at the siding and are afraid that you might to paint or replace it, you might be surprised at just how much deep cleaning the siding improves your home’s exterior and (curb appeal). To keep it looking fresh and vibrant, siding pros suggest you clean it once every 12 to 18 months.
Window Cleaning
One of the easiest ways to boost curb appeal is cleaning the windows. Not only do clean, sparkling windows look inviting to the guests and visitors to your home, they let in more natural light, improving the mood of those occupying the room. As with gutters and tiger striping, dirt, grime, and sticky pollen residue can etch or weaken glass panes, making them vulnerable to the elements and severe winds.
