How to care for your home exterior in winter
On the surface of it, wind and rain may seem less harsh on the exterior of your home than summer, but any weather conditions take their toll.
Caring for exterior timber surfaces that are open to the elements plays an important role in ensuring their longevity. The colder months may feel gloomy, but they’re the best time to get outside and give your exterior surfaces a freshen up to combat the effects of weather on your paintwork, deck and furniture.
But where to start?
Inspect and repair
“Be sure to inspect and repair your furniture and timber finishes before you repaint or recoat with a protective layer, then give the surface a good clean before you start,” says Brian Hamilton, Managing Director Tenaru (Sikkens distributor),
Brian suggests regular inspections to ensure any cracks or unpainted areas are attended to before causing further damage to timber surfaces.
"It's important to look out for peeling, flaking, discolouration, mould growth or greying of the timber surface as these are key signs of timber damage."
Brian Hamilton
To strengthen the timber and prevent any damage spreading, before recoating use a fast-drying filler and stopper for nail holes and wood cracks. “Applying this will ensure that dry rot will not cause more damage,” says Brian.
Scrub your deck
“Properly clean any timber surface before coating to make sure the new coating penetrates and adheres to the timber, for long lasting protection,” Brian encourages. Rejuventate your timber and remove dirt from your deck by taking everything off it and giving it a good sweep with a hard-bristled broom. Follow with a high-pressure hose if you have one, or grab a deck-scrubbing broom and use warm soapy water or a specialist deck cleaner to give it a good scrub.
Apply waterproofing and a finishing coat
It’s best to avoid painting in full sun as the paint will dry too quickly, similarly wind will also whip up dirt and dust to complicate a smooth finish.
“Applying a coat of waterproofing is a must,” says Brian to the timber deck, window and door frames will protect surfaces against damage from moisture, mould and rot over winter. The same goes for your outdoor furniture. “A water-based finish is microporous, allowing the timber to breathe while repelling unwanted moisture.”
"During cold and rainy months, be sure to clear away any leaves or dirt that may pile up on the deck or in between gaps"
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