It’s a dream for many, a beach house with the sun and sand. However, it’s a challenging environment for our homes. I am the owner of an enterprise for property maintenance in the area of the coast in NSW, Australia, which has given me plenty of knowledge about these issues. I hope this article can assist you in identifying problems that could arise from living close to the ocean and offer you some suggestions on the best way to prevent damage that could occur.
Gutters
I have seen a lot of downpipes and gutters with rust in this region. Rust is a frequent issue due to the amount of salt that is deposited in your home. But there are methods to prolong the life span of your downpipes and gutters. The most effective is to make sure that you clean your gutters every two years at a minimum. I suggest having your gutters cleaned at the conclusion of the Autumn season, once the leaf fall has stopped, and prior to the winter rain and towards the end of spring and before the risk of fire season of summer. Clean gutters allow water to flow out and carry any salt remnants. A blocked gutter can cause an accumulation of salty silt, which sits in your gutters and begins to corrode paint and the metal.
In addition to maintaining your gutters in good condition, It is essential to ensure that they are falling correctly. That means there aren’t any weak places in your gutters where the water is likely to be able to pool and drain without restriction. If you experience heavy rain, you might observe your gutters overflowing in an area. This is a sign of the possibility of a low spot or obstruction. If your gutters appear to be uneven or crooked to the eye, then be sure to have them checked and repaired when necessary.
The following points are related to the gutters you choose to use and their upkeep. Be sure to cover your gutters with paint. It will not only enhance the appearance of your home, but it can also help maintain the gutters. If you are considering installing new gutters, ensure that you conduct the necessary research. At an average of $50+ for every millimeter of gutter, you must ensure that you purchase high-quality gutters with assurance.
Screen doors, fly screens and security doors
Like gutters, screen doors, as well as fly screens as well as security doorways are also susceptible to corrosion. What if you bought stainless steel that is the marine grade? Although it is a fantastic product, stainless steel can get rusty. Be sure to check it every time you clean the doors to your security or flyscreen. If you are replacing your flyscreens, choose a mesh made of nylon. While it’s not as durable as wire-based products, it is more durable and will last for a longer lifespan in coastal environments.
Locks
I’ve been asked to handle various locks that are stuck. The coastal environment is highly humid. Together with salt residue and a build-up of dust in the lock becomes invisible glue when combined with the moisture in the air. It is a common thing I see only in old locks or locks that are located on beaches’ front streets. Don’t be enticed to spray WD40, degreaser, or any other oil-based lubricant in the lock. While it may allow the lock to function for a short time but it will also attract dust and dirt, and the lock could be seized again. The lock may require just a tiny quantity of graphite which is a dry lubricant based on carbon. It will generally get things moving once more. If required, the barrel could require removal and cleaning prior to when the lock is back to normal.
Shade sails, umbrellas, and fabric Awnings
Shade sails, umbrellas and cloth Awnings have become a prevalent and practical design feature for numerous houses. The shade they offer while also allowing air and light circulation is fantastic. They’re also quite affordable and are available in an almost endless variety of sizes, shapes and colors. They are able to be removed and wrapped up for winter seasons. The wind is the main adversary in these shading systems. As a licensed shade system installer, I am aware of the immense forces they entrap. Shade sails have the name sail because of reasons, and I’ve witnessed numerous gutters and fascias taken away, windows damaged, as well as sails ripped and other damage caused by the improper installation or tensioned shade sails incorrectly. It’s not as easy as tying the sail between two posts and then screwing it onto your home. It’s an easy DIY project, but I would recommend researching and speaking to others about how to install them. They can be pretty inexpensive; however, they could cause significant damage. With regard to umbrellas and awnings, don’t forget to turn them on or take them down. They are frequently damaged, and repairing them is a challenge and costly.
Fencing
Fences are the last thing I’ll discuss. I have seen a lot of damaged fences due to the fact that the lower sheets are close to the ground. Many manufacturers will specify a certain distance at which the panels must be erected away from the ground. It’s worth following these guidelines. I have also noticed a considerable number of fences with crooked edges that have changed over time. This is usually caused by the sandy character of the ground. It’s difficult to fix; however, typically, digging more profound posts into the soil or concrete every third post, for instance, could solve the issue and stop it from happening. Other concerns are the growth of things against the fence, the fence being pushed over or when vines are involved in taking it away. Also, make sure to maintain your fences. Painting or applying oil will prolong the life of paling and wooden fences. Cleaning colorbond or other metal fences may aid in prolonging the life of your fence, but the correct installation and installation of quality fences that come with warranties for a long time is most likely the best choice, according to my experience.
I hope this article has been helpful to some or helped them to be more aware of the issues their homes are facing on the coast. Our home is in a beautiful environment, and with a bit of effort, we can steer clear of any extra problems that could be a problem.