Everyone understands the importance of having a sanitized, well-functioning bathroom or kitchen. However, fewer appreciate the importance of a clean and well-kept building exterior. Any discussion about maintenance should involve regular cleaning that ensures sufficient property drainage and growth-free windows, walkways, gutters, and roofs. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, your property’s upkeep demands care and attention. Poorly handled maintenance and cleaning can do more harm than good. Neglecting your building’s upkeep will likely result in costly future repairs and may also put your occupants and visitors at risk.

Why Seasonal Inspections are So Important

It’s easy to forget just how much abuse the exterior of your property takes. Vancouver’s coastal climate is subject to heavy rainfall throughout the year, making inspections of the areas around your windows, doors, gutters, and roofing critical. Remember, the envelope of your home or business is your property’s first line of defence against water getting inside. Regular upkeep ensures this protection isn’t compromised. Excess rain and damp conditions create environments where mould, mildew, moss, and algae can thrive. Damaged, growth-ridden roof tiles and clogged gutters will only worsen if ignored.

The Financial Costs of Neglecting Building Maintenance in Vancouver

Your home or commercial building is designed to funnel water away for appropriate drainage. Compromised gutters can lead to water backing up under roof tiles or pooling near the base of your home. Excess water can lead to damage to fascia, roofs, exterior walls, window frames, landscaping, and even the foundation of your structure. Once a breach occurs and outside water seeps inside, the problem will be impossible to ignore and even more expensive to repair. Clogged gutters also lead to excess weight that can cause the entire gutter to bend or break loose. Ignoring Building Maintenance Is a Health HazardPoor building maintenance leads to unsanitary conditions, including slipping hazards when dirt and other organic matter are left to build up on walkways. Algae on sidewalks can be incredibly slippery, particularly on rainy days. Nobody wants to hear that an injury occurred while someone was visiting your home or place of business. In addition, dirty windows and screens, along with clogged gutters, can harbour allergens that contribute to poor indoor air quality. Residual dust, mould, and mildew left on glass surfaces can trigger allergy flare-ups whenever the windows are open.Clogged gutters attract all kinds of unwanted critters, including mice that may draw even larger pests onto your property. Raccoons and coyotes, for example, may pose a physical threat to any pets you may have in your backyard. Excess water pooling is also a haven for those annoying, biting mosquitoes during the warmer months.If you’re cleaning those gutters and second-story windows, you better have the proper tools and safety protocols in place. Otherwise, you’re only setting yourself up for a potential fall.