Whether you live or holiday on the coast, if you own a seaside property, you should know that it requires more maintenance than you might think.
Sea air is full of salt and coastal air is moister, all of which impacts your home and furnishings.
Coastal homes require more maintenance and care to keep them in a good state of repair. Some aspects to pay attention to include:
Metal and rust – the sea air promotes rust and you should ensure that you use stainless steel or coated metals as far as possible. Wash metal objects and railing regularly to ensure that there is no rust build up.
Windows – windows tend to get dirty along the coast and to ensure that you can enjoy maximum views, your windows and glass doors should be cleaned at least monthly otherwise they will quickly become dirty and moggy.
Wood – although wood is a great natural product, it is sensitive to water and salt erosion. Wooden doors, windows and other finishes should be checked and treated regularly.
Waterproofing – the higher levels of moisture can lead to more water damage, damp and waterproofing requirements for a coastal home. It is always best to catch the problem early and get it repaired otherwise it can become costly if neglected.
Mildew – coastal property is more proned to mildew and rooms can become damp if left closed for long periods. Mildew can develop on furniture and soft furnishings and other surfaces like walls and cupboards. Air out your home regularly and ensure surfaces are wiped down with a special cleaning product to keep it free from mildew development.
Paint – your exterior will need diligent maintenance because moisture in the air and from rain can seep into cracks in the paint and plaster and cause major damage. Use quality paint suitable for coastal property and do a regular check for cracks and damage that need attention.
Sun damage – coastal homes tend to also suffer the effects of sun damage, especially outdoor decks and furniture. Store away your outdoor furniture when not in use and keep it away from direct sunlight as fabrics will fade.