If you own a property, chances are you want it to look just as tidy and inviting from the outside, as you do on the inside. And while there are plenty of things that a skilled masonry contractor can do to help you achieve this (such as patios, walkways and driveways), the exterior of your home will only continue to look good with proper and consistent maintenance.
Here are a few things you should be doing to help preserve your external masonry:
- Applying sealant
Acting as a protective barrier for all masonry surfaces, sealant shields materials like stone and concrete from such things as stains, moisture and damage from the sun. Fail to do this as often as is recommended by the manufacturer (or your trusted masonry contractor), and your external masonry could start to fade, crack, and even lead to structural problems if neglected over time.
- Not using chemicals to clean masonry that are too harsh
When harsh chemical cleaning products containing ammonia, bleach or acid are applied to external masonry materials, it can actually strip off sealants, weaken the material, and cause discoloration. Only ever use gentle cleaning products that are pH-neutral – like good old soap and water – to clean the hard surfaces around your home.
- Clearing weed growth
With their ability to grow between pavers, lift up stones to create an uneven surface, and cause cracks that are both unsightly and potentially hazardous, weeds can quickly ruin attractive and practical hardscaped surfaces around your home.
One way of stopping weeds from becoming a problem in the first instance, is to use an experienced masonry contractor, who will use landscape fabric or weed barriers underneath any hardscaping. They will also make sure that any joints are packed tightly with sand to stop weeds from being able to take root.
- Ensuring proper drainage
This point and the previous one should never be an issue provided you hire an experienced masonry contractor. Taking the time to find a good local contractor whenever you need any external masonry work carried out is always worth the effort, and can prevent such issues as pooling water. A serious concern, pooling water can quickly lead to erosion, the formation of cracks, and in some instances, even cause problems with the foundation of your home.
A trusted masonry contractor will grade such things as walkways, driveways and patios in a manner that ensures water is directed away from the surface.
- Clearing debris on a regular basis
When dirt, leaves and general debris are left to build up on external masonry features, it can easily cause staining that’s hard to remove, and which looks unsightly, along with damage that may be costly to repair. Clean up concrete and stone areas around your home on a regular basis to keep them looking great, and performing well.
- Repairing damage swiftly
Even the most seemingly insignificant of chips or cracks can soon turn into a much bigger problem if left untreated, especially when moisture starts to permeate the surface, and freeze-thaw cycles in colder climes take hold. The minute you see any damage appearing on external stone or concrete surfaces, you should ask your local masonry contractor to address them; regular checks will help you keep cracks and other damage to a minimum.
By sticking to the advice outlined above, you can keep your external masonry looking as beautiful as the inside of your home, and with a lot less effort and cost than if you were to neglect it and be forced to have it repaired.