Introduction

The outdoor area can be a great way to enjoy your home, but it requires a lot of maintenance. However, you can keep your outdoor area clean and beautiful by following some simple tips. In this blog post, we have discussed some important tips for the maintenance of outdoor areas such as commercial epoxy flooring, deck sanding, and other things that need to be done now and then.

Epoxy flooring

Epoxy flooring is a good choice for the outdoor area.

Epoxy flooring is durable and long-lasting. The epoxy coating has a high hardness, which makes it resistant to impact, abrasion, and chemicals. This makes it ideal for areas where heavy trucks come into contact with the ground. It’s also great for garages or workshops that have constant wear-and-tear.

Epoxy flooring can be used in the kitchen as well! Epoxy resin is an excellent moisture barrier that prevents moisture from getting under your floors and walls through cracks caused by expansion due to temperature changes — a big problem in many kitchens where heat from cooking appliances causes an increase in temperature which can cause damage over time if left untreated.*

Floor sanding

Sanding the floor is a good way to make sure the surface is smooth and even. A smooth surface will be easier to clean, it’ll be more comfortable underfoot, and it can help prevent accidents like tripping over uneven boards or stepping on nails that have become exposed.

To begin floor sanding in Wellington, you’ll need an electric sander with at least 80-grit paper (you may also want to purchase 100-grit). Make sure that your sandpaper has the same grit number as your sander – for example, if your sander uses 80-grit paper then purchase some 80-grit sandpaper as well. 

Once you’ve gathered all of these supplies together, get started by pushing down firmly onto the floorboards with minimal pressure (your goal isn’t necessarily to remove layers of paint but rather to smooth out bumps or dips caused by previous occupants). Then move back over areas that haven’t been touched yet in order not to allow dust from previous passes to settle onto freshly cleaned surfaces; this will help ensure they stay clean while you’re working on other areas later on!

Deck sanding

The first step to deck sanding is to choose the right sandpaper for your deck. You can do this by checking the instruction manual that came with your deck. Most of them will tell you what kind of sandpaper to use. For example, if it says “80 grit” or something similar, then this is what you should use.

Once you’ve found out which kind of paper to use, place it on top of your sanding block and begin moving back and forth over the surface until it looks smooth. If there are any bubbles in the wood, go over those areas more slowly until they disappear completely; this will ensure that no splinters remain once everything dries up later on down.

Tips for maintenance of the outdoor area

Use the right tools. For example, you don’t want to use a power tool without the proper training—this could result in serious injury or damage.

Be careful when working with tools. If you’re not careful and handle your equipment recklessly, you may end up hurting yourself or someone else around you. It’s best to take your time and do things safely when using any type of tool indoors or outdoors for maintenance purposes.

Clean the area before you start work on it so that no clutter can be tripped over by accident while working on what needs to be done at hand (such as lawn mower repair). This way there won’t be any distractions when doing something important like cleaning off grass clippings from a garden bed so they don’t become fertilizer for weeds later on this season!

Introduction

If you have the opportunity to do heritage restoration, take it. Not only can you appreciate the history of your property, but you can also turn it into something that’s even more beautiful. You just need to know how to go about doing it — here are some tips on how to renovate a heritage home:

Work with an accredited heritage renovator

• Work with an accredited heritage renovator. One of the best ways to ensure your home will be properly restored is to work with an accredited heritage renovator. They have the experience and knowledge necessary to preserve the heritage features of your house, as well as prevent future damage from occurring.
• Start by assessing what can and cannot be done during renovations. Before you begin any kind of renovation on your heritage property, make sure you understand what needs to be done throughout the process so that you don’t accidentally destroy anything valuable in your home. The best way to do this is by speaking with our experts at Heritage Renovations Ltd… We’ll explain everything from start to finish—and give recommendations on how long each step should take. This will let them know exactly where they stand when it comes time for repairs or alterations!

Consider what you can do yourself

It’s important to understand what you can do yourself, and which parts would be better left to a professional like house renovations in Brisbane. For example, you should generally leave electrical work and building permits to the experts. On the other hand, if you already have some experience with construction or home renovations, maybe there are a few steps that you could take on your own.

If you’re unsure whether it’s worth your while to do something yourself or pay someone else (and how much), here are some things to keep in mind:

• The cost of hiring a contractor is often double what it would cost for materials only (e.g., $500 vs $250). So if your budget is limited but still wants professional results, consider doing as much as possible on your own before hiring someone else.

Be mindful of adding modern touches

Modern touches can be used to complement heritage renovations, and they can also enhance the heritage character of the home. If you want to add value to your property, modern touches are great for this too. You can even use modern touches to add comfort and convenience to your home.

Don’t paint over your leaded windows

If you’ve never considered the health risks associated with leaded paint, this is a good time to start. Lead-based paint was banned in Canada in 1992, and while it’s possible that some homes still contain this material or even worse—lead-based wallpaper—it’s best to err on the side of caution and assume that all pre-1980s homes will contain some amount of lead. The problem with lead is that over time it becomes toxic and can poison children who eat it or breathe it in. While I don’t want to scare anyone away from renovating an older home just because they’re worried about their health (that would be silly), I do think it’s important for people who have leaded windows to take precautions so as not to expose their families or future owners’ families to any potential dangers down the road

Use wall art to complement your renovating efforts

To complement your heritage home, use framed canvas wall art. The right canvas wall art can add color and style to any room. It’s another way to bring life into your space.

If you’re looking for a focal point in the living room, find something that will make people stop in their tracks when they walk through the door. A large piece of canvas wall art with bright colors will do just that!

You can use framed canvas wall art to complement your renovated heritage home.

When you’re renovating your heritage home, one of the best ways to complement your new dining room or kitchen is with framed canvas wall art. A variety of sizes and shapes are available, so you won’t have any trouble finding the right one for your space.

Canvas prints are durable and long-lasting, which means they will last through many years of use in your house. They don’t fade like other types of paper artwork might over time, making them ideal for use in areas that get a lot of exposure to sunlight (like near windows). They also come in an array of colors that can add brightness or warmth to any room where they’re hung!

Conclusion

You may feel overwhelmed by all the tips and tricks we’ve given you here, but don’t worry. The important thing is to take things one step at a time; each little task will add up to a beautiful finished product in no time. 

Introduction

As the weather warms up and you enjoy more time at home, there’s no better time to conduct a thorough home maintenance check. This list will help you identify any issues that may arise over the summer months.

Drainage

Before you get to the specifics, there are a few things you should consider in general.

• Do you have any major leaks on you stainless grates? If so, they need to be fixed immediately.
• Are your gutters clogged up with debris or other materials that might prevent water from draining properly?
• Have you noticed any cracks in your drains and pipes? If so, make sure to have them repaired as soon as possible.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some specifics for each type of drainage system: pipes and downspouts (for rainwater), waste lines (for sewage), and vents (to release air pressure within the tubes).

Air conditioning

• Adjust the thermostat. The easiest way to keep your air conditioning running smoothly is to keep the thermostat at a comfortable temperature by day and night. This will keep your unit from running too hard, which can damage it over time.
• Change the filters by hiring a professional lik Daikin air conditioning in Sydney. Changing your filters regularly is critical to keeping the air inside your home clean and free of allergens, but that’s not all: it also helps extend the life of your HVAC system by preventing dirt buildup in internal components like compressors and condensers.
• Check for leaks around windows, doors, and vents—and fix them! Air leakage can cause significant energy losses in an HVAC system… so make sure you seal up any leaks that might be escaping from these spots before they become big problems down the road!
• Inspect for other signs of trouble (such as visible dents or cracks) that may indicate damage has occurred under the hood; if there are any signs of trouble here then take steps immediately – without prompt attention, these issues could lead eventually lead to costly repairs later on down the line

Kitchen exhaust

• Kitchen Exhaust System Cleaning starts with cleaning the fan and vents. A greasy vent can be a fire hazard, so it’s important to clean them regularly. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris from the fan and vents.
• Clean filters. Filters should be replaced every few months, depending on how often you cook and what kind of food you make in your kitchen. If you have an exhaust fan above your stovetop or range hood, check that its filter is clean by removing it from its housing and looking for grease buildup inside (in some cases, this may require washing with soap water).
• Check for leaks in ductwork or between connections where air can leak out of your system without traveling through all parts of your home first—this will cause unnecessary energy usage in addition to making noise as air escapes through cracks in older systems over time! If there are any suspicious-looking joints where ducts meet up together then try pushing down on each one gently while watching closely for popping noises coming out behind them; if nothing happens then don’t worry about it being broken – but remember how many times

Basement and foundation

• Check for cracks in the foundation. If you live in an area with frost-heaving or expansive soils, there’s a good chance that your basement floor has a crack or two. These are easy to spot and usually easy to fix by filling them with concrete.
• Check for leaks and moisture. Look for signs of water damage on the walls or flooring, especially if it’s uninsulated concrete like I’ve got in my basement. If you notice any signs of moisture buildup from pipes leaking through your walls (or if you just want peace of mind), have a professional come out to take a look at what’s going on down there:
• Mold and mildew
• Signs of termites or other pests

Fire extinguishers

A fire extinguisher should be kept in every home, as well as in your car and at work. They’re also a must-have during outdoor activities like camping or hiking.

• Know where it is

Fire extinguishers are heavy and bulky, so they should be stored close to an exit point in case you need to use one quickly. You should know exactly where yours is before an emergency happens so you can get to it quickly—and safely!

• Be prepared for all kinds of fires

Different types of fires require different types of extinguishers, so make sure you have the right one on hand. A common mistake is to buy a multipurpose model that covers both oil fires and electrical fires but not kitchen grease fires (which can be extinguished with water). Make sure you know what type of fire your family faces most often and which type of extinguisher will work best for those situations (for example ABC-type fire extinguishers are best for ordinary combustibles such as wood or paper).

• Practice using your device regularly—and replace it when necessary!

Emergency supplies

In addition to the annual and seasonal maintenance tasks, it’s important to have an emergency supply of items on hand at all times. The following is a list of things you should keep stocked for when the unexpected happens:

• Batteries
• Flashlights/lanterns
• A weather radio (or two)
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher(s)

Roofing and guttering

• Roofing and guttering Check for leaks by looking for patches of dampness on the ceiling below. You can also check your gutters and downpipes, which should be free from moss, algae, and leaf debris.
• Exterior walls Check for any damage to external walls (such as cracks in render), broken windows or doors, holes in window frames where water may get in to cause rot, missing flashing around valley gutters and eaves troughs, loose or damaged window sills that allow rainwater to seep into your home.

Appliances

• Clean the oven.
• Clean the refrigerator.
• Clean the dishwasher.
• Clean the microwave.
• Clean the stove.

Cleaning appliances

• Clean the oven, inside and out. If it’s been a while since you cleaned your oven, you may want to give it a thorough cleaning before the holidays. A dirty oven can be hazardous to your health as it could cause food poisoning and other illnesses. Make sure to clean the burners with soap and water, then wipe them dry before using them again.
• Clean your refrigerator coils thoroughly with a vacuum cleaner attachment or brush attachment (if available). This will help prevent mildew from growing on them, which means less work for you down the road! Don’t forget about those hard-to-reach areas at the back of the fridge–they’re easy to forget but still need regular cleaning like any other part of this appliance!

Conclusion

These are just a few of the home maintenance tasks that you can do yourself or hire someone else to do. Some of them seem like common sense, but others are things you may have never thought about. By doing these checks regularly, your home will be more value, safer, cleaner, and more comfortable for everyone who lives there!

Your home’s exterior plays an essential part as it reflects how your house’s interior might look. That is why looking for the most appealing exterior designs when renovating your home is important. Additionally, when your exterior is appealing, the value of your home increases, and it helps attract more potential customers when planning to sell. Some tasks are not complicated, and you can consider DIY, while others require experts. When improving your curb appeal, you need to have a detailed plan and a budget to ensure everything goes as planned and you are not stuck in the middle. This article will explore incredible ways to improve the exterior of your home.

Consider Going Green

You need to consider going green on your compound when boosting your curb appeal. Adding some fresh flowers and greenery can make your home stand out and look lively. If you don’t have enough time to set up a garden, you can consider adding some window boxes and planters. However, it’s crucial to consider the plant’s arrangement as it greatly impacts ensuring your home looks beautiful.

Take Care of Your Lawn The lawn also has a great impact on ensuring your curb looks beautiful. You must conduct lawn care, such as mowing the grass, pulling weeds, and raking off leaves. Additionally, it’s important to water it constantly to avoid drying. Continuing maintenance makes it cheap and easy to care for.

Consider Painting

Painting is essential and can help make your home look new. Most people opt for DIY but end up spoiling or using the wrong color combination. This is why it’s crucial to contact Painting Contractors for Residential and Commercial buildings to help you with the painting of the exterior of your home and your front door. The front door and the exterior of your home are what people will see, and ensuring you have painted it accordingly helps give visitors and potential buyers a good first impression. When choosing a color for your door, you can consider choosing a bold color that enhances and accentuates another color on the exterior of your home. It’s crucial to consult with an expert to recommend the color to use.

Ensure There is Enough Light

If your entry looks dark, it looks suspicious and is not a welcoming gesture. This is why it’s crucial to consider cleaning up all your outdoor fixtures to allow light to enter. Ensure you remove all the debris and cobwebs around your outdoor light fixtures. Additionally, if you use a sconce or have a pendant on your front door, you can replace it with something fresh and fun.

Clean Your Gutters

It’s important to inspect your gutters and ensure they are clean constantly. Most people forget to inspect them until water starts to leak into the interior of your home or the debris spoils parts of the home’s exterior. If left too long, blocked gutters will damage your roof, which can lead to even bigger problems. You should find a company like Utah Roofing and Exteriors as soon as possible to come and repair any damage or replace sections that are too damaged to be saved. The sooner you do this, the less it will cost, but it makes sense to keep on top of gutter cleaning to ensure the damage doesn’t occur again.

Utilize the Outdoor Furniture Wisely

Most people think having a lot of outdoor furniture makes their exterior look beautiful, which is not true. Too much furniture only clutters your appearance, and having too little can make them look neglected. All try to balance and ensure the furniture is in good condition and clean.

Bottom Line!

The above are incredible ways to consider when you want to improve the exterior of your home. Some methods you can use DIY ensure you have the right tools and the required skill.

You have a choice of exterior paints to consider for exterior masonry and garden walls, but the best paints are shower resistant and offer weather protection. This guide helps you care for external walls, masonry while knowing how many coats you need.

What is the best paint for render?

The answer which comes up time and time again from professionals is masonry paint.

What is masonry paint?

Masonry paint is developed for use on external walls and is suitable for use on:

• Pebble dash
• Lime rendering
• Cement rendering
• Monocouche Rendering
• Tyrolean Rendering
• Silicone Rendering
• Plaster
• Concrete
• Stone
• Brickwork

Masonry paint is effective at adding more colour to your property walls, but it is also highly effective at protecting your building.

The durability of masonry paint ensures it helps minimise the impact of harsh weather conditions, pollution and the general wear and tear of your property.

What are the benefits of masonry paint?

There are many benefits of applying masonry paint to exterior walls, including:

Protection against dirt and airborne pollution

Depending on where you stay, your home might be bombarded with dust, dirt and debris in the air, including soot, sand and even the remnants of acid rain. Masonry paint provides a protective coating, making it easier to keep your premises clean.

Algae and mould resistant

One of the most substantial reasons to apply masonry paint is its protection against mould and algae. This is unsightly, and over time, it can damage the property. Mould is closely associated with dampness, so if you want to reduce the impact of damp problems, masonry paint is a great mould resistant solution offering a durable finish.

Efflorescence protection

If you are close to the sea or your property is exposed to water, it can take on a crusty image with white salts appearing on exterior walls and masonry work. This look is unsightly, but in some cases, it can cause exterior walls to dry out, eventually causing them to flake or crumble.

Minimise cracking

Cracking is caused by many factors, including mould, frost damage and water. A small hairline crack can lead to significant problems, so applying several coats of masonry paint helps to reduce the risk of hairline cracks.

Prevent blistering

If the property is exposed to high temperatures, paintwork can blister, weakening the surface. Masonry paint is the ideal paint to reduce blistering and minor imperfections.

What is the difference between masonry paint and standard paint?

There are different chemical compounds in masonry paint, and paint is more commonly used inside a home. The most significant difference between masonry paint and a gloss or matt paint you’d use indoors is the waterproof coating on offer, the odour and fungicides which limit mould growth. These are all fundamental reasons only to use masonry paint on exterior walls, not internal ones.

It is essential to state that masonry paint isn’t fully waterproof, but it should be waterproof enough to provide sufficient protection against rainy weather.

What types of masonry paints are there?

You will find masonry paint comes in many forms:

• Smooth masonry paint
• Textured masonry paint
• Oil based masonry paint
• Sandtex masonry paint
• Water based paint

The best masonry paints is often a matter of choice, so consider what you need when you buy masonry paint. There are cheaper masonry paints on offer, but you want the best results when painting exterior masonry.

Smooth masonry paint is the best masonry paint for many professional decorators

You also have masonry paint known by different names, such as the range of smooth finish exterior paints. These belong under the masonry paint umbrella, but they are often listed separately due to the nature of finish created with this paint.

A smooth paint with weather resistance qualities are important

There are many options to choose from when looking for weather-resistant products, including leading brand names in the paint sector. Adding weather protection makes sense for external doors, or those exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Textured masonry paint offers benefits too

Textured masonry paint is ideal for filling small cracks, and many people appreciate the style of this paint. In some circumstances, textured masonry paint offers more protection than smooth masonry paints. It might be a personal choice between a smooth finish or a textured finish, but what you like, you have a wide range of masonry paint options to help.

Can you get masonry paint in different colours?

Yes, you will find masonry paint is available in a wide range of colours.

Whether you plan on selling your home soon, so you want the kerb appeal to be high, or you admire a pleasant and welcoming exterior of your home, you will be delighted at the colour options on offer.

If you cannot find masonry paint in the colour you are looking for; you should be able to mix paint together to get the same colour. You should be able to enjoy smooth coverage or a textured finish in your favoured colour scheme.

Applying masonry paint

Steps to take before applying exterior masonry paint include:

• Clean the exterior wall, removing dust, dirt and debris – feel free to power hose the property at this time or a scrubbing brush with warm soapy water
• Scrape the wall to remove bits of cement
• Use commercial products such as antifungal cleaner or stabiliser for the first render to remove and minimise mould
• Use a first coat primer if applicable, such as with flaky or chalky walls
• Cover areas with masking tape or larger sheets if you don’t want them to be covered in paint

Once you have followed these steps, you can add masonry paint with a masonry brush, roller or paintbrush. Aim to cover the wall with long and smooth strokes and apply two or three coats, or multiple coats as applicable.

What weather conditions are best for applying masonry paint?

It stands to reason dry weather conditions are best for applying masonry paint. Ideally, you want a period of 24 hours with no rain after you apply the paint.

Do you need an undercoat with masonry paint?

You don’t typically need an undercoat with masonry paint, but as mentioned above, if walls are flaky or chalky, it makes sense to prepare an undercoat before applying masonry paint.

With the best masonry paint for your property, you can coat and protect exterior surfaces, ensuring your home looks great.

Homeowners often wonder if they should have their home’s exterior walls rendered. While the answer to this question largely depends on the property and what look the homeowner is going for, there are some general things to consider when deciding whether or not to render your walls. In this post, we’ll explore some of those considerations and look at how rendering can impact the value of your home.

What is rendering, and what are the benefits?

Rendering is applying a thin layer of material, typically cement or plaster, to the exterior walls of a property. Homeowners can do this for both aesthetic and practical purposes. For instance, render can give your home’s exterior a more polished and finished look. It can also help to protect your walls from weather damage and pests.

So, if rendering can offer some benefits, why might it also negatively impact your home’s value when you move to a new house. Let’s take a look at some of the potential downsides to rendering.

Rendering can be costly and time-consuming

One of the chief drawbacks of rendering is that it can be quite expensive and time-consuming. The cost will vary depending on the size of your external walls and the type of rendering material you choose. If you need to cover your entire house with external wall insulation, house rendering is costly. Of course, external insulation offers many benefits, but covering an entire house takes time and costs more money.

House rendering can be difficult to repair

Another downside of house render is that it can be challenging to repair if it becomes damaged. For instance, if your rendering cracks or starts to flake off, you’ll likely need to hire a professional to come and fix it. This can add even more cost to the rendering process.

So, what does all this mean for your home’s value?

While rendering can certainly have some benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Regarding property value, render may not have a significant impact either way. However, if you’re planning on selling your home shortly, it’s essential to weigh the cost of rendering against the potential return on investment.

How does rendering affect the value of your house?

If your exterior walls look in poor condition or your cavity wall insulation isn’t as good as it can be, there is no denying that good quality and hard wearing rendering will add value to your home. If you endure adverse weather, a rendered home is far more equipped to deal with it. We had a chat with the infamous Mister Render from the UK and their take on it was it’s one of the biggest sales tactics they use to potential customers because it seems like less of a cash outlay if you know you are going to get it back plus more. Although the actual value of the increase depends on the type and quality of render plus the size of the rendered area.

However, if your home has attractive brickwork that matches the overall style of the local area, changing the style of the property might cause the value of your home to fall. When it comes to the housing market, there is no great benefit in standing out for all the wrong reasons. This is something that potential buyers think about when buying a house.

You don’t need planning permission or deal with the local planning department when the house rendering finish matches other homes in the area.

Improved cavity wall insulation is a reason to render your home

If there is a structural, insulation or protective reason why render is essential for your property, there is a compelling argument to carry out this work. At a time when so many people are focused on rising energy bills, improving insulation at home is essential. Rendering improves your insulation and prevents penetrating damp, so you can see why it is an asset when it comes to property value.

You’ll receive the short-term benefits that render delivers, but you’ll also see your home increase in value. Prospective buyers will be more attracted to the property, and in return, they’ll be more likely to make a higher off for your home.

Conversely, if the render is primarily aesthetic, offering no great benefit to the home, and the new look render isn’t appealing, it is likely to put prospective buyers off your property. This means they will likely make lower offers on the home, and in turn, lowers the value of the property.

What are some things to consider before rendering your home?

House rendering may not have a significant impact on the value of your home. However, weighing the cost of render against the potential return on investment is important. Render can be expensive and time-consuming, so you’ll need to decide if it’s worth it for your

The different types of render available on the market

A quick run through of the most type of render available in the UK market include:

• Cement render
• Traditional lime render
• Silicone render
• Monocouche rendering (through coloured)
• Acrylic render
• Cork-based render – the most eco-friendly solution for an exterior wall

Avoid cement render if you can

Cement render and lime render are the most affordable wall covering, but it isn’t suitable for older properties, it is more likely to crack, and it requires significant maintenance.

This means adding cement and lime renders to a property isn’t a great idea, and will likely lower the value of a home. Other types of render have more kerb appeal, and provide greater benefits concerning external insulation, supporting brickwork and penetrating damp.

There are different materials to consider than a cement based render finish

Silicone renders and acrylic render are more modern renders offering a smooth finish, and are more likely to appeal to prospective homebuyers. If this render has been applied recently, it is likely to be in good condition, it requires little maintenance, and should be in place for many years to come. This provides a prospective buyer with confidence about their wall covering.

You can bring colour, saving you to re-paint or add a fresh coat with the right type of render on an exterior wall.

The thermal performance of your home is vital in having a good home, and this means house rendering impacts the value of your home. Good quality house render on external walls can improve value, but poor quality existing render or unsuitable new render to an external wall can damage the value of your entire house.

It is vital you choose the right materials for your solid walls, and call on the best professional to carry out the job. There are many elements to consider with rendered projects, but there is more advice and guidance for every homeowner if they need it.

Rendering is an excellent option for many homes, offering insulating and protective benefits, but sometimes, problems arise with rendering at a home. If you’re having issues with rendering on your external walls, you may be wondering if it’s possible to remove it.

What are the problems with rendering on a house?

Rendering can cause several problems on a house, including cracks, flaking, and bulging. Cracks in rendering are often caused by movement in the underlying wall, which can be due to weather changes or settlement. Flaking and bulging are usually caused by poor workmanship or faulty materials.

Old render is more susceptible to problems like damp, and rendering from a sand and cement mix will experience problems over time. Cement render is the traditional solution, but old render is often problematic, and creates the need for render repair skills and services.

It is possible to carry out render repair work on external walls yourself, but if you are unsure or lacking in confidence, most builders will carry out cement render repair or patch repairs at your premises.

Damaged render makes your home look unsightly, it can reduce property value, it exposes your home and can lead to dampness. New render is often expensive, but given the problems posed by damaged render, you’ll be glad to know render repair is possible, and effective.

You don’t need planning permission for this DIY job

Render repair on surrounding walls is a bit tricky, especially if you see bare patches and you know the original render is old. Render repairs are fairly common, especially for small cracks on your wall.

Can you repair rendering on external walls?

In some cases, rendering can be repaired rather than removed. If the old render is only cracked or flaking in certain areas, it may be possible to repair it with a sealant or patch during regular home maintenance. However, if the rendering is bulging or significantly damaged on external walls, it will likely need to be replaced.

Do your exterior walls sound hollow?

A good way to check if your render has come away from the underlying structure is to tap the wall, lightly with a hammer or cold chisel, to see if the walls sound hollow. If they return a hollow sound, it is an indicator of damaged render, and your property requires render repair.

Hollow rendering can be salvaged with render repairs

Hollow render often suggests the work can be saved, as opposed to requiring replacement, so render repairs are in order. With the right tools and equipment, you can re render the whole wall if need be.

How to repair cracks in the exterior render

Not every crack or bulge is the same, so you should approach each job in a unique manner, considering the challenges of the task. However, you’ll find that there is a general process that provides the template for repairing cracks and damage in render, which is as follows:

• Identify the source of the crack
• Clear and clean out the crack
• Repair any damage to existing render
• Apply a sealant to the crack
• Apply a final coat of acrylic exterior paint to the exterior wall, try to exact match the paint

Following these steps will help you minimise problems with your old render, and enhance your chances of doing a great render repair job.

Dealing with tiny cracks in a sand and cement mix render

If you have small hairline cracks in your existing render, you may be able to repair them with a sealant or patch. First, clean the area around the damage and remove any loose rendering.

A scratch coat is part of the transformation

Once the crack is hollowed out, it is time to apply fresh render, so add a scratch coat and then as many layers of render mix as applicable. Ensure the render finish is level, and smooth.

Next, apply the sealant or patch to the crack, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Once dry, painted over the area to match the rest of the render.

How to repair flaking external render

If your render is flaking, you’ll need to remove the loose rendering before repairing it. Use a chisel and hammer to scrape away the flaking render gently. Be careful not to damage the underlying wall. Once all the loose render has been removed, apply a new coat of render to the area.

How to repair bulging cement render

Bulging render is usually caused by moisture getting behind the render, so it’s important to address any leaks or dampness before repairing the render. Once the source of the problem has been fixed, remove the bulging render with a chisel and hammer. Be careful not to damage the underlying wall. Once the bulging render has been removed, apply a new coat of render to the area.

Is it possible to remove rendering from a house?

The answer is yes, but it’s not always a straightforward process. Depending on the type of rendering and the condition of the wall, removing rendering can be a difficult and time-consuming task.

How do you remove rendering from a house?

There are a few different ways to remove existing render from a house, but the most common method is to use a power washer. This method can be effective but can also damage the underlying wall if not done carefully.

Another way to remove rendering is to manually chisel and scrape it off the wall. This method is more labour-intensive, but it doesn’t run the risk of damaging the wall.

Render repair for old render

Rendering repair carries repair costs, but when you carry out repair work yourself, you save money in the short and long term. By ensuring your external walls have improved weather resistance, you protect your home and minimise further damage.

If you notice hairline cracks appearing, there is no time to waste, but bear in mind, repairing render, especially old render, is fairly common. Hopefully this guide helps you with repairing rendering, making your home, fixing large cracks and small cracks while making property more aesthetically pleasing.

Many homes across the country have uPVC window frames holding their windows in place. The material is cheap to use and effective, and so is used in the majority of properties in both window and door frames. There are plenty of benefits to having uPVC window frames, but the main one is the ability to paint them. uPVC, or unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, is very paintable, meaning that you can paint uPVC window frames relatively easily, giving your house a refreshed look, upping its kerb appeal, and even increasing the UV protection that your window frames have.

What paint works on uPVC window sills?

While uPVC window frames are fairly easy to paint, the material does require specific paint. In order to paint uPVC, you will need to have fully prepared the surface and you must use a solvent-based paint that is specifically formulated for hard plastics. Using any other paint, like oil-based paint, will result in poor adherence and subsequently a poor finish.

It is absolutely key to use the right paint on your uPVC in order to obtain a professional finish. Some of the top brands for uPVC paint include:

• Zinsser Allcoat Exterior
• Kolorbond uPVC paint

Along with your paint, you may need to prime your uPVC window frames. Usually, you can find this out by checking out the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re hoping to change brown uPVC windows to a lighter colour, you may need multiple coats in order to achieve your chosen colour. Alternatively, turning white uPVC windows grey will require less coats of primer.

Spray paint vs. ordinary paint for painting uPVC

You will likely see when shopping for uPVC paint that there is a huge range of paints available. Some of these will be spray paints. Likewise, if you look at uPVC painting services near you, you will likely find that most professionals will offer uPVC window spraying services rather than painting services. So why spray paint uPVC windows? Why not use brushes to paint uPVC windows instead? Well we spoke to Sketch Spray to get a few answers, spray paint has a range of advantages:

• Spray paint provides better coverage on uPVC window frames
• It will be much quicker to use a sprayable paint than applying it with a brush, especially if you’re painting multiple uPVC windows or large window frames
• A brush does not provide the flawless perfect finish that spray paints do; brushes often cause brush marks, paint drops and can even shed brush hairs into the paint during the painting process, impacting the finish on your uPVC windows

How to paint uPVC window sills

You can hire a professional uPVC painter to paint uPVC windows for you, but if you’re confident enough to want to paint your uPVC window frames yourself, here’s how to do it. Painting uPVC windows isn’t hard, but it does take some preparation and time, so make sure that you have enough patience and spare time before you begin painting uPVC window frames.

1. Clean the surface

uPVC windows are exposed to the elements all day every day, so inevitably they get a little bit grimey. It is important to remove any dust, dirt, debris, and grease from your uPVC window sills before you begin to paint the window frame. This will help to ensure that you have a nice smooth uPVC surface to paint on.

To clean your uPVC window frames, simply use a damp cloth and hot soapy water, and wipe the uPVC surface down. If during this process, you notice any holes, you will need to fill them. You can fill holes in uPVC window frames and uPVC doors with caulk or filler.

2. Protect the other areas

Once you have cleaned the uPVC surface and it is completely dry, you should begin to cover the areas around your uPVC windows. This helps to ensure that none of your paint will get on the glass and brick or render around them when you paint uPVC window frames.

To do this, you can use painter’s tape or masking tape and either tarp or specialist coverage paper. Ensure you cover all of the areas that you don’t want to get paint on, and that will make the process of painting uPVC much easier.

3. Use primer if needed

As mentioned above, not every uPVC paint will require primer. Check the manufacturer’s information to see whether you need to apply primer to your uPVC windows before you begin to paint uPVC.

If you do need to use primer, you can spray it on with long strokes. Once the uPVC windows are fully covered, leave to dry completely, and then go in for another coat. If you are looking to go from brown uPVC windows to a light colour, or from any dark colour to a lighter tone, you will need more coats of primer. It is important to ensure that you apply the primer evenly in order to get a professional finish.

4. Paint uPVC window sills

It is now time to paint uPVC windows. Painting uPVC window frames can either be done with a brush or with spray paint. If you want to paint uPVC windows with a brush, you should:

• Use a high-quality brush in good condition
• Paint uPVC in only one direction
• Be careful that you do not let the brush from paint drops on the uPVC windows
• Use long strokes of the brush to limit brush marks

You will need to apply one coat evenly with your paintbrush to the uPVC windows. Once you are satisfied that you have achieved an even base coat, you should leave the first coat to dry. You will then need to go in to paint on another coat, which you can then leave to dry. Usually, you will need more than two coats to achieve the perfect finish and to ensure that your colour is as vibrant as you’d like. A minimum of three layers of paint on your uPVC window or doors is a good rule.

Alternatively, if you are using spray paint to paint uPVC windows, you do not have to worry about only painting in one direction, or trying to protect the uPVC windows from paint drops, as this is much less likely to occur with spray paint. Simply use long strokes of the airbrush or canister along the window frames, being sure that you are painting uPVC and not the covers on the wall and glass.

Once you have one coat, you should leave the window frames to dry. As soon as the coat is done drying, you can go in and continue to paint uPVC windows, adding another coat. Keep going like this, applying more coats to your window frames until you are happy with the colour that you have achieved on both the window sills and the window frame.

After that you can go ahead and decorate your windows and sills with your favourite nik naks.

When the temperatures start to cool and memories of summer are long gone, homeowners often look towards the maintenance their homes need for the winter months ahead. Winterization protects against the harsh weather extremes of winter and prevents damage. Whether homeowners are shutting up their vacations home or battening down the hatches for winter snow, winterization becomes critical.

When Should Homeowners Winterize a Home?

Many homeowners wonder when it is the optimal time to winterize their homes. For most climates, it is wise to begin winterizing in early to mid-fall. Starting early gives homeowners plenty of time to take care of their winterization tasks so they do not become overwhelmed by the process. Some homeowners even hire a Texas Home Improvement expert to take care of these winter chores for them.

5 Steps for Winterizing Homes

Winterizing a home does not require an expansive budget and can be done a step at a time to avoid stress. Taking the following steps will assist homeowners in understanding how to start the process of winterizing their homes.

Cleaning the Gutters

Cleaning the gutters is a chore most homeowners do not like doing. Although gutter maintenance can be a pain, it is a necessary part of homeownership. During the winter, freezing temperatures lead to snow and ice that needs to be ushered away from the roof. Clogged gutters do not drain properly. Cleaning the gutters is an essential part of home winterization.

Roof and Attic Inspection

Roof damage increases during the winter if there are vulnerable areas. Now is the time to inspect the attic and roof for any signs of damage. Look for wet spots in the attic, and climb a ladder to inspect for signs of shingle or flashing damage. Taking care of these inspections in the fall will prevent minor problems from becoming severe.

Inspect the Chimney

Homes with fireplaces need chimney inspections before winter comes. Dirty chimneys can become fire hazards that are dangerous. Make sure the chimney does not need cleaning and no birds have made nests that are blocking smoke and soot escape.

Seal the Windows

Weatherproofing the windows is a chief winterization chore to help prevent cold drafts that can cause heating systems to overwork and lead to increased energy costs. Seal any gaps or cracks with weather stripping or caulk. Cover the windows in shrink-wrap plastic to keep the cold out and the warm inside.

Weatherproof the Plumbing Pipes

When the temperatures drop low, frozen pipes can become a problem. There are a few steps homeowners should take to protect their plumbing systems against burst pipes.

· Shut off the outdoor hose, and put it away for the winter.

· Know how to shut off the main water supply in case of emergencies.

· Cover exposed pipes with foam protectant sleeves.

Winterization Protects Homes From Damage

Not only does winterization save homeowners money on their heating costs and keep them more comfortable during winter, but it also prevents costly damages. Homeowners who go through the steps above ensure they protect their investments against damages that may occur because of cold temperatures, ice, and snow.

Winterization is not difficult. Most homeowners can take care of the above steps on a couple of weekends. By taking action now, issues like leaks, frozen pipes, and chilly drafts will not spoil the winter season for homeowners.

Spray foam insulation is a liquid spray that will expand when it comes into contact with air after spraying on a surface. Once it expands within tight spaces, the foam provides an excellent seal against outside elements. It also offers excellent thermal resistance, which can help your home maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year. It’s a multipurpose solution you can apply on walls, roofs, crawl spaces, and other difficult-to-reach areas in your home. Here are vital uses of spray foam application in your home that will enhance comfort and happiness.

1. Offers Protection Against Leaks

If your home is prone to hidden, minute, or even large leaks, use spray foam insulation to deal with this challenge. However, you may ask, why choose it? Spraying spray foam insulation on areas with cracks, gaps, and spaces will help protect your home from these pesky invaders and create a warm, comfortable home. Although this option is more expensive than other methods of sealing up the inside of your house, it has many benefits worth considering.

Such benefits include completely sealing off an area for an extended period so that you can remodel without worrying about fumes entering the space and causing any health problems. When you have a contractor who knows how to prepare and spray-apply the product correctly, no messes will be left behind, producing excellent results. You only need to watch in awe as they transform your property into a warm, comfortable home.

2. Helps Cut Down on Energy Bills

Spray foam insulation is a fantastic way to reduce your energy bills. These days, most people are trying to save money on utility bills, which is one of the best ways to do it. For some homes, spray foam insulation can provide up to 60% better insulation than traditional materials. That means you will dramatically reduce your house’s heating and cooling costs.

You will have a much more comfortable living space by sealing all the detected and potential air leaks from your home. The spray foam insulation provides an excellent thermal barrier, leading to lower heating bills. It also helps maintain clean air quality inside the house. For anyone who suffers from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory illnesses, this will help create a more friendly environment.

3. Spray Foam Insulation is Environmentally Friendly

The modern consumer is becoming more conscious of the environment. To help meet these needs, make an environmentally friendly choice. Using spray foam insulation, you can increase your home’s energy efficiency and comfort and lower your carbon footprint. Polyurethane, the material that makes

up most quality insulation foams, does not contain ozone-depleting chemicals (CFCs) or chemicals that can change water pH.

In addition, it’s non-toxic and non-flammable, making it safe for use in many residential settings. With this option, there are no worries about off-gassing or dangerous fumes from installing foam insulation into your house; it is entirely safe! However, it’s crucial to keep your rooms ventilated when using foam insulation and ensure that you hire a company that uses proper installation techniques.

4. Improves Moisture Resistance In Your Walls and Ceilings

Spraying foam insulation inside your home will coat every surface, filling all cracks, gaps, and spaces to seal out drafts and moisture. The foam also helps prevent rot in studs and beams and can even protect against mold. Moreover, it’s an easy solution for insulating wet walls or ceilings caused by flooding.

Using spray form insulation in your lofts, cavity walls, basements, attics, crawlspaces, or other enclosed areas around your home provides an airtight barrier that prevents outside air from getting into these areas and infiltrating your living space. That way, you can ensure you breathe fresh air without feeling the heaviness of humidity or worrying about cold winter temperatures.

5. Keeps Pests Out of Your Home

Pests such as ants, spiders, termites, and roaches can be especially problematic in the home. However, spray foam insulation can seal off all possible ingress points to keep off most pests. That way, you can reduce the need for harmful chemicals to ward off pests. In addition, if your house is near wetlands or water sources, sealing any holes around your foundation will keep most pests out of your home.

Conclusion

Spray foam is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to insulate their home for different reasons. It’s cost-effective, easy to install, and delivers the most bang for your buck. If you want your home to be warm in the winter and cool in the summer for years to come, spray foam insulation is a great choice. A comfortable house should be the goal of every homeowner; it doesn’t matter if you live in a small apartment or a large mansion – spray foam insulation will work great in any home. However, hiring an experienced contractor is crucial to achieving the best results!