Holiday Home Maintenance Tips
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AT HOME ON THE WEST COAST:
Holiday Home Maintenance Tips
Your holiday home is your sanctuary, where you should be able to enjoy a well-deserved retreat to your own personal paradise. Of course, as with most investments, upkeep is required and obviously, a well-maintained home is considerably more likely to retain or even increase in value.
To guide you through your post-holiday maintenance we've outlined some tips and considerations to keep in mind.
Doors and Windows
Older homes often have timber-framed doors and windows, which are particularly prone to swelling and decaying in the humid coastal air. More modern alternatives like aluminium are more durable but still require regular cleaning and maintenance. Wipe down your door and window frames regularly to prevent a build-up of salty residue and keep the metal components of your door and window frames protected from rust with silicone spray or Q20.
Deck Chairs and Garden Furniture
Left exposed to the elements, outdoor furniture at holiday homes often endures prolonged exposure to the sun as well as the salt and moisture from the sea air. Wicker furniture is particularly vulnerable to weather damage. Teak is an extremely durable wood but will need to be treated and stained regularly to keep its colour. Keep any fabric accessories such as cushions and pillows inside as much as possible when not being used.
Timber Decking
For homeowners along the coast, thorough deck maintenance should be done once a year, to seal and protect the wood. While there is often the temptation to allow timber such as Balau to weather and age naturally, however, if not properly cared for, the combination of sun and salty sea air can be brutal on decking, leading to cracking and rot setting in.
Damp Areas
Bathrooms and kitchens are susceptible to mould, especially in holiday homes which are not always occupied. The smallest leak can mean coming back to a mouldy mess when all you really want is to enjoy your holiday time. The best course of action is to repair any leaking taps or pipes, and promote as much airflow through the affected area as possible using fans and opening windows. Clean up any residual mould or mildew by scrubbing with detergent and bleach. Also, be sure to open windows or turn on the extractor fan when showering or bathing to prevent moisture build-up from undoing all of your work cleaning up.
Clearing the Gutters
Blocked gutters can cause water damage to your property. Be sure to inspect your house's gutters before the start of the rainy season to make sure that they are not blocked or leaking. The most common cause of blockages is a build-up of leaves which can easily be unblocked before any costly damage is caused.
For any assistance in finding your perfect holiday home, contact us on info@homeandhectare.com or give us a call on 021 872 6533.
Author: Home & Hectare
