The exterior walls are more than the walls in a house; they bear the weight of the entire structure, providing stability and support. They act as the first line of defense against the elements, protecting the interior. However, neglected exterior walls are not something uncommon nowadays.
Despite its critical importance, homeowners often overlook regular maintenance of exterior walls. These walls are necessary to avoid a range of potential issues that, if left unaddressed, can lead to costly repairs and compromised structural integrity.
Homeowners would love to avoid hassle as much as possible, right? Here are some common signs of neglected exterior walls that anyone can observe to identify earlier the possible damage.
Cracks and Fissures
One of the most visible signs of neglected exterior walls is the visible cracks and fissures. These cracks can occur due to various factors, such as the settling of the building, temperature fluctuations, or inadequate construction techniques.
Unfortunately, these cracks can widen, eventually compromising the walls’ stability and integrity. When looking at cracks, it is important to consider their size, location, and potential causes. Small cracks may require simple repairs.
On the other hand, larger or more significant cracks may indicate underlying structural issues that may need professional attention. In these cases, it is advisable to consult with professionals to assess the severity of the situation and recommend appropriate repairs.
Regular inspection can help identify these cracks early on, allowing for timely repairs to prevent further damage.
Peeling Paint
Neglected exterior walls often show peeling or bubbling paint. This is typically caused by moisture intrusion or poor surface preparation before painting. When moisture penetrates the walls, it can cause the paint to lose adhesion and peel or bubble.
Remember, peeling paint not only affects the house’s aesthetic appeal but also exposes the underlying walls to potential water damage and further deterioration.
Stains and Discoloration
When you glance at neglected exterior walls, the unsightly stains and discoloration are the first things that catch your eye. Those dark marks aren’t just random smudges – they could tell you something important.
If you notice visible stains and discoloration on your exterior walls, it could be a sign of mold and mildew making themselves at home. Water infiltration is often the culprit behind those dark stains. Whether it’s from heavy rains or leaks in the walls, moisture finds its way in and leaves its mark. And where there’s moisture, there’s a good chance mold and algae will take hold if you spot green or black spots on your walls, which clearly indicates that mold or algae are happily thriving.
Efflorescence
When you spot efflorescence, or the white, powdery stuff, on your neglected exterior walls, don’t just brush it off as a minor annoyance. Take it as a sign to investigate further. It might not seem like a big deal at a sign of moisture lurking around. And where there’s moisture, some serious issues could be hidden beneath the surface.
When neglected exterior walls are exposed to moisture, whether it’s from rain, sprinklers, or poor drainage, they can seep into the walls. As the water passes through the materials, it carries those dissolved salts along with it. When the water evaporates, those salts are left behind, creating that pesky powdery residue we call efflorescence.
Vegetation Growth
Some homeowners might think it adds a touch of charm, but these plants can wreak havoc on your walls.
Moss and algae love to cling to those neglected walls and make themselves at home. But here’s the problem, they’re like moisture magnets. They trap moisture against the surface, and that’s bad news. All that trapped moisture can lead to decay and deterioration of the walls.
Remember, your exterior walls aren’t just there for show. They play a vital role in protecting your home. So, let’s keep them in top shape by saying “no thanks” to moss, algae, and ivy. Your walls will thank you, and you’ll be saving yourself from costly repairs down the road.
Contact House Washing Experts Now
Cleaning and maintaining exterior walls can be dangerous and require specialised equipment and skills. Professional cleaning services have the experience and equipment to safely clean and maintain your retaining walls, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Professional cleaning services, like House Washing Experts, have the knowledge and experience to properly identify and clean various types of stains, growths, and other issues that can affect retaining walls. They can also identify and repair any structural problems in the walls.
All you need to do is find a reliable, efficient, professional cleaner that can transform the look of your house. Call House Washing Experts at 1300 927 433.