A 12-month guide to maintaining and protecting your home’s exterior
12 month guide to protecting your home’s exteriors
As a homeowner in the Pacific Northwest, your home faces unique challenges due to the region’s wet, temperate climate and distinct seasons. Regular exterior maintenance and professional pressure washing services can protect your investment, enhance curb appeal, and prevent costly repairs.
Below is a 12-month breakdown of recommended services and homeowner tasks to keep your home’s exterior in tip top shape!
January (Winter – Cold, Wet, Stormy)
Gutter Cleaning: Heavy rainfall and storms can clog gutters with debris, leading to water damage. Professional gutter cleaning ensures proper drainage.
Homeowner Task: Inspect roof for loose shingles or debris buildup from winter storms. Clear small debris from walkways to prevent slips.
Why: Prevents water overflow that can damage siding, fascia, and foundations.
February (Winter – Wet, Overcast)
Moss and Algae Treatment: Moss and algae thrive in Vancouver’s damp conditions. A professional soft wash or low-pressure treatment on roofs and siding prevents growth and damage.
Homeowner Task: Check for standing water near the foundation and ensure downspouts direct water away from the home.
Why: Moss can degrade roofing materials and make surfaces slippery.
March (Late Winter/Early Spring – Rainy, Cool)
Driveway and Walkway Pressure Washing: Winter grime and algae buildup on concrete surfaces can be hazardous. Professional pressure washing restores safety and appearance.
Homeowner Task: Trim overhanging branches that drop debris or shade areas, promoting moss growth.
Why?: Clean walkways reduce slip risks and prepare your home for spring.
April (Spring – Mild, Showery)
Deck and Patio Cleaning: Decks and patios accumulate dirt and mildew over winter. A professional cleaning and sealing service protects wood or composite surfaces.
Homeowner Task: Inspect deck boards for wear or rot and sweep off debris regularly.
Why?: Extends the life of outdoor surfaces exposed to constant moisture.
May (Spring – Warmer, Mixed Weather)
Exterior Siding Cleaning: A soft wash removes dirt, pollen, and mildew from siding, preventing staining and degradation.
Homeowner Task: Clean windows to remove winter grime for better natural light.
Why?: Keeps siding materials intact and boosts curb appeal as spring blooms.
June (Early Summer – Mild, Occasional Rain)
Fence Cleaning and Maintenance: Wooden or vinyl fences can harbor algae or mildew. Professional cleaning and staining (if needed) preserve their look and longevity.
Homeowner Task: Check fences for loose boards or posts and repair promptly.
Why?: Protects fences from rot and maintains property aesthetics.
July (Summer – Warm, Dry)
Roof Inspection and Spot Cleaning: Dry weather is ideal for inspecting roofs and spot-cleaning stubborn stains or debris. Professionals can assess for damage and apply treatments.
Homeowner Task: Clear dry debris (leaves, needles) from roofs and gutters to reduce fire risks.
Why?: Prepares your home for the dry season and prevents debris buildup.
August (Summer – Hot, Dry)
Outdoor Furniture and Hardscape Cleaning: Pressure wash outdoor furniture, stone patios, or retaining walls to remove dust and pollen buildup.
Homeowner Task: Rinse outdoor furniture regularly and store cushions during heavy rain forecasts.
Why?: Maintains the longevity and appearance of outdoor living spaces.
September (Early Fall – Cooling, Light Rain)
Pre-Fall Gutter Cleaning: Clear gutters before the heavy fall leaf drop to ensure proper drainage during rainy months.
Homeowner Task: Rake leaves and debris from the yard to prevent mold and slippery surfaces.
Why?: Reduces the risk of clogs as fall storms begin.
October (Fall – Cool, Wet)
Full Exterior Cleaning: A comprehensive pressure wash of siding, walkways, and driveways removes seasonal buildup before winter.
Homeowner Task: Seal cracks in driveways or walkways to prevent water infiltration.
Why?: Prepares the home for harsh winter weather and prevents damage.
November (Fall – Cold, Heavy Rain)
Moss Prevention Treatment: Apply professional-grade moss inhibitors to roofs, decks, and walkways to combat winter growth.
Homeowner Task: Ensure proper drainage around the home and clear storm drains of leaves.
Why?: Minimizes moss and algae growth during the wettest months.
December (Winter – Cold, Wet, Windy)
Emergency Debris Removal: After storms, professionals can remove fallen branches or debris from roofs and gutters to prevent damage.
Homeowner Task: Regularly check for and remove small debris from entryways and pathways.
Why?: Protects the home from storm-related damage and maintains safety.
Final Tips for homeowners
Schedule professional pressure washing and exterior cleaning at least once or twice a year (spring and fall are ideal).
Stay proactive with small maintenance tasks to reduce the need for costly repairs.
Partner with a trusted exterior cleaning company to create a customized maintenance plan for your home.
By following this 12-month guide, you can protect your home from the elements, extend the life of exterior surfaces, and keep your property looking its best year-round.
Whether you live in Vancouver, Coquitlam, Langley, Abbotsford or Chilliwack, we got you! Find out what other residential services we offer here.
Once you’re ready, contact us for a free quote!
