As we start heading into Perth’s cooler seasons, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your home for the rainy days, cooler temperatures, and strong winds, which can have a significant impact on the exterior of your home. Taking a few proactive steps now can help prevent costly repairs down the line, keep your home in good condition, and ensure your home remains safe, secure, and comfortable throughout the colder months. Below, we’ve shared 5 exterior home maintenance tips to get your home ready for the season ahead.
Why Outdoor Maintenance Matters
As we move through Autumn, rain becomes more frequent, and wind picks up, putting extra strain on your home’s exterior. From the roof to the foundation, each part of your property can be affected, which is why it’s so important to stay ahead of potential issues.
Taking the time for preemptive building maintenance now, can save you money on major repairs and prevent neglected damage from getting worse during the wetter months.
1. Check Your Roof and Gutters | Prevent Blockages Before the Rain Hits
As we move into the cooler months, now is the time to have your roof and gutters checked by a professional contractor. Fallen leaves and debris can quickly clog gutters, leading to overflowing water that can damage your roof, walls, and even your home’s foundation.
Your contractor can also identify loose or damaged roof tiles before they become a problem, preventing water from seeping into your ceiling space when the rain hits.
2. Lawn Care | Prepare Your Yard for the Cooler Months
Maintaining a healthy lawn will keep your yard looking great during the cooler months. This is the time to aerate the soil to ensure it’s getting the nutrients and oxygen it needs, as well as reseeding any bare patches to promote growth. A good tip is to alternate your mowing directions to help encourage healthy growth, as this can prevent soil compaction and promote better grass health.
It’s also the ideal time to fertilise your lawn, ensuring that it’s well-prepared for the dormant winter period. Keep your lawn looking lush and ensure it’s ready to handle Perth’s cooler temperatures.
3. Check Your Outdoor Lighting | Illuminate and Secure Your Home
As daylight hours shorten, ensuring your outdoor lighting is in working order becomes more important than ever. Outdoor lighting not only provides security, effective lighting can also enhance the appearance of your home. Check your exterior lights for functionality, replace any burnt-out bulbs, and clean the fixtures to keep them working effectively.
This is also a great time to assess the placement of your security lights. Check they are properly positioned for maximum coverage. With the cooler months come longer, darker nights, and proper outdoor lighting is crucial for your home’s security and visibility.
4. Seal Gaps and Cracks in Exterior Walls and Windows
The arrival of cooler winds and rain means it’s the perfect time for weatherproofing. Inspect your home’s exterior for any gaps or cracks, especially around windows, doors, and walls. Even small cracks can let cold air and moisture into your home, making it harder to maintain a comfortable temperature and leading to increased heating costs.Sealing these gaps with caulk or weatherstripping can improve your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. It also prevents rain from getting in and causing water damage. By investing in small repairs now, you’ll make your home more energy-efficient, saving money and improving your overall comfort. If you notice any significant wall cracks, consult our team about our South West and Perth defect inspections.
5. Drainage and Water Flow | Prevent Flooding and Erosion
Proper drainage is essential to protect your home during WA’s heavy rain periods. Blocked drains, clogged downpipes, or poor water flow can lead to flooding, erosion, and even foundation damage. Inspect your gutters, drains, and downpipes for blockages that could prevent water from flowing freely.
Ensuring water is directed away from your home helps prevent standing water, which can weaken foundations and lead to long-term structural issues. A quick inspection now can save you from costly repairs later. If you spot a problem, consult a roof plumber to address it before it becomes a major concern.
Preemptive Maintenance for Peace of Mind
From roof inspections to weatherproofing and drainage assessments, ensuring your home is ready for the colder months will not only improve energy efficiency but help you prevent damage caused by rain, wind, and cooler temperatures.
Need Help With a Home Inspection?
If you’re unsure where to start or want to make sure your home is ready for WA’s cooler months, our team at Home Integrity is here to help. Whether you need a building inspection in your Perth home or your South West Property, we’ve got you covered.Contact our friendly team to discuss our Property Maintenance Inspection option and keep your home in great shape all year-round.
