Cladding the exterior wall of your home is one of the best things that you can do for your property as it protects it from adverse weather elements and irritants that can destroy the building or its aesthetic value.
However, it is not enough to put up your wall cladding and just leave it there. You have to maintain it otherwise it may begin to build mould and lose its beauty which defeats the purpose of its existence.
Most people are not aware that they can maintain their wall cladding panels which is easier and cheaper - instead of constantly replacing them all when they get old.
This article will walk you through nine (9) practical ways you can maintain your exterior wall cladding panels.
9 Ways to Maintain Your Exterior Wall Cladding Panels
Regular Cleaning
One of the major ways of maintaining your wall cladding is by cleaning it regularly. The ideal number of times you should clean your exterior wall cladding is two thorough times per year.
The ideal period is in the spring and in the fall, and you have to maintain these cleaning periods. The method of cleaning it is also essential. It is advisable that you use a mild detergent solution (warm water and detergent mixed) and a soft brush or sponge.
Mild cleaning is suggested because using abrasive or high-pressure washers can damage the panels. The damage on the surface could compromise its durability making the panels not last anymore.
While cleaning, ensure to pay attention to certain areas such as the soffits, doors, windows and other corners. This is because they are the areas that collect debris, grime and dirt the most.
For a low-maintenance and more sustainable option, consider a composite cladding panel.
Address Mould and Mildew Growth
If you live in a region where it rains a lot you may want to pay attention to moulds and mildew that may be growing in the wall cladding.
This is because moulds and mildew grow and thrive in damp environments. When you notice that they are growing, address them immediately and get rid of them. If you do not act promptly, then it will spread further and may cause both physical and health damage.
To properly clean mould and mildew, you should use a diluted bleach solution or a commercial mould and mildew cleaner as they are the more effective option. Since moisture is responsible for mould and mildew, you can opt for proper ventilation to increase the chances of dryness and reduce moisture buildup.
Inspect for Damage
You can only notice possible cracks, warping, loose panels or any other damage when you constantly inspect your wall cladding. These damages can be caused by weather conditions or insects.
If during inspection you notice any minor issue, deal with them immediately to prevent them from escalating and causing bigger problems.
If you noticed it too late and the damage is already beyond your expertise, consult or hire a qualified professional familiar with your cladding panel type.
Re-sealing (if applicable)
If you use wood or fibre cement for your wall cladding, you can re-seal them to maintain their protective layer and prevent moisture absorption.
To know the correct method of re-sealing, it is advisable to consult the manufacturer for recommendations. Re-sealing should be done at specific intervals and those intervals should be maintained.
If you wish to get the best result while re-sealing, you can hire a professional for proper application of the sealant.
Gutter and Drainage Maintenance
You should also clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water (especially rainwater) from accumulating.
Allowing the water to accumulate can cause moisture damage to the cladding panels. Even if you try to air it out, once the water accumulates again, it destroys your effort to properly ventilate.
You can build proper drainage away from the building foundation. This ensures that water does not pool near the panels thus eliminating the chances of mould and mildew growing from stagnant moisture.
Vegetation Control
If you have trees or a garden in your outdoor space or you still intend to have one of them, then ensure to keep them away from the cladding panels to prevent moisture retention, damage, and scratches.
If you have already made the mistake of planting them too close, then ensure to always trim the overhanging branches and keep the climbing plants away from the cladding panels.
If there is any vegetation growing directly on the panels, get rid of it as it could cause cracks and destroy the integrity (i.e. durability) of the cladding.
Mind Harsh Weather
There are circumstances beyond your control that can contribute to the destruction of wall cladding. The most common one is harsh weather conditions, probably during a rainstorm or snowstorm.
When there is a strong storm, loose objects flying around or falling debris can hit the panel and damage it. It is necessary to put protective measures in place even if it is temporary.
Still in weather conditions, temperature fluctuations or extreme temperatures can cause cladding materials to expand or contract. This can cause them to crack and if it is not remedied immediately, it can cause further damage.
Consult Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Be informed that the type of maintenance you need for your wall cladding depends on the materials you use to construct it. Each cladding material has a unique maintenance requirement as recommended by the manufacturers.
Hence, you are advised to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to adopt the best practices needed for maintaining your wall cladding.
Also note that your cladding panel has a warranty term, knowledge of which will help you maintain it properly to maximise its lifespan.
Schedule Professional Inspections
Some homeowners prefer complex cladding systems which is okay as it is likely to last more than the random cladding. The implication of this however is that you will need professional help to maintain it.
This will involve a series of processes such as calling on the professionals to assess it, scheduling periodic inspections by a qualified building contractor or cladding specialist, and then paying them to come and work on it.
This method of maintenance is only suitable for top or commercial homeowners with a high budget for it.
Conclusion
If you are aiming for durability, weather resistance and aesthetics of your house walls, the best choice is the exterior wall cladding panels. Proper maintenance then ensures the longevity and visual appeal of the wall cladding panel. This article lists and explains the nine (9) major ways to maintain your wall cladding panel.
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