5 Yearly Garage Maintenance Checks
Spring and summer are fantastic times to get outside and whip the yard into shape. It is easy to overlook the garage, especially if it is tucked away in a corner of the yard and only used for storage. While it is tempting to spend most of the time outside planting award-winning daffodils or lounging on a patio, it is important to inspect the garage for damage or signs of wear.
Siding
One of the most obvious signs of damage to a garage is flaking paint or finish from the walls. They are exposed to the elements all year long and panels can become dislodged or the color can fade or chip off, allowing water to seep in and wreak havoc with anything it can. Any wood beams that become exposed can quickly rot and collapse if not tended to in a timely manner. Siding should be checked at least once a year. Should the siding be in need of repair or replacement, it is best to contact a professional.
Doors
Depending on the materials, the main doors should be kept clean and sealed against wood rot or rust. If the doors have become damaged beyond repair, they can be replaced. Even if the main door is not in terrible condition, it can be replaced to quickly update the look of the property. If the house has been updated within the past few years with new doors and windows, then updating the look of the garage is not a bad notion. It is not hard to think of some garage door ideas and get started.
Gutters
Not all garages have gutters installed, but it is a worthwhile investment to look into. If gutters are already installed, they should be examined carefully for any blockages, as sediment that builds up too high can render the gutters useless. The downspouts can be removed and cleaned out for optimal performance. A level should be used to make sure that the water is not getting stuck at any part of the gutter system. They should slant slightly down towards the nearest downspouts.
Foundation
Buildings tend to settle over time, which strains the foundation. Any water that sits at or under the foundation can also cause trouble. Signs of any cracks, no matter how minor, should be taken seriously. Unfortunately, cracks in the foundation do not shrink over time, so as they appear and grow, they need to be monitored. Contact a professional if the cracks become large and threaten the structural integrity of the building.
Roof
Another important weapon in the fight against water damage is the roof. Bad weather can displace shingles and allow water a way into the structure. If there are only a few shingles missing and the rest are in good shape, the missing pieces can be replaced. Over time the shingles may rot and become useless. At that point, the only option is replacing them with new ones before the board’s underneath can become exposed to the elements.
Garages are fantastic places to store tools and household items when not in use. They are also fun to use during parties as an extra outdoor space. Whatever they are used for, it is crucial to keep them in good shape.
