Exterior walls are the first barrier that protects a building from weather and environmental factors. It’s essential to maintain your property’s exterior to ensure its longevity. Neglecting these areas might seem like a small issue at first, but it can quickly escalate into serious structural problems that affect the overall safety and integrity of the building.
In this article, we’ll explore why ignoring exterior maintenance can shorten your building’s lifespan and the steps you can take to prevent further damage. If you’re dealing with exterior disrepair, the Housing Disrepair Helpline can help guide you through the process of repairing these issues and ensuring your property remains in good condition.
- Water Damage and Structural Issues
Your building’s exterior is continually exposed to the elements, such as rain, wind, and snow. Small problems can become major ones if you do not maintain the exterior of your building. Water can enter a building through cracks, damaged gutters or roof damage. Water seeping into walls can weaken the building over time. Water damage can be caused by rotting wooden beams or rusting metal supports. It may even cause foundational problems. This damage is expensive to repair if left unchecked. - Health Problems and Mould
Mold growth is another problem that can arise from neglecting exteriors. Mold thrives in moist environments. When water leaks into your home, this can provide the ideal conditions for mold to grow. Mould is not only unsightly, but it also poses health risks. Mould can cause allergies, asthma and respiratory problems. The mould will spread over time and become more difficult to remove. Fixing leaks on the outside of your home and making sure drainage is proper will help you avoid mould. - High Energy Costs
If you don’t maintain the exterior of your home, this can lead to increased energy costs. Heat can escape through drafty windows and doors and damaged insulation during winter, while hot air is allowed to enter during summer. Your heating and cooling systems will have to work more, resulting in higher costs and energy consumption. You can reduce your energy costs by repairing small problems like damaged insulation or sealing up windows. - Pests and Insects
If you neglect your exterior, pests such as termites, rodents and insects can easily enter the building. These unwanted visitors can enter through cracks, holes, or damaged windows in your walls. These pests are capable of causing significant damage, including chewing wires and insulation. They can even destroy the building itself. Preventing these issues and keeping your property or home safe is possible by taking care of the exterior. - Property value decrease
A neglected exterior will make an impression on people. Potential buyers and renters may be hesitant to purchase a property if they see the exterior of the building in poor shape. It can reduce the value of your home, which makes it more difficult to rent or sell. Painting, fixing cracks and cleaning the gutters can increase your property’s value and improve its curb appeal. - Foundation problems
A building’s foundation is a very important part. Water can accumulate around the foundation because of clogged drains and poor drainage. The soil can shift due to water, causing cracks in the foundation. Repairing foundation problems is expensive and may affect the whole structure of the house.
What You Can Do?
It’s vital to keep up with exterior maintenance in order to extend the life of your building. Check the walls, roofs, gutters and windows regularly for signs of damage. Repair the problem as soon as possible to avoid it getting worse. Keep the outside of your building clean to save money and extend its life.
Take Action if Your Landlord Won’t Repair
You may be eligible for compensation if you are a landlord and neglect the exterior of your property. Water damage, structural issues, and mould can all affect your safety and health. The Housing disrepair Team is there to help if your landlord does not make repairs. The team can help you with the claim process and make sure that your landlord meets their legal obligations.
