Want to Save Money? Here's How Exterior Trim Repair Can Help

Chances are high that exterior trim repair isn't at the top of your to-do list. NoVA homeowners don't tend to pay much attention to it, because trim seems like basic components that don't really do much and are only there to give your house a finished look.

However, damaged exterior trim is a bigger problem than just a curb appeal issue—and if you're looking for ways to save money, or you're thinking of selling your house in the near future, it's definitely time to take notice of its important functions. But how do you know if it's in need of repair? And can repairs really keep money in your wallet?

In this guide, we'll show you some key indications that your exterior trim is in need of help from the service professionals at Mr. Handyman of Northern Virginia - Arlington to Haymarket, and explain how exactly our repair services can save you money.

What is Exterior Trim?

It is the parts of your home's exterior, such as window and door frames, that trim the house and give it a finished appearance. Some styles, such as Victorian, have far more elaborate additions such as corbels, scalloped gables, spindles, and shutters. But it's not all about looks—it also keeps moisture and insects from getting into the interior of your walls and causing much bigger issues such as water damage. The category can also include roof trim such as soffits and fascia, the trim boards that run along the sides and bottoms of your roof eaves.

What Are the Signs I Need Exterior Trim Repair?

Wondering if you need exterior repair services? Keep watch for the following symptoms of disrepair:

Rotten Wood

Exterior trim is commonly made of wood, and frequently exposed to moisture. That makes it susceptible to wood rot, a form of decay caused by wood-eating fungi that requires a high moisture content in timber to begin growing. Damaged wood trim on your windows, doors, and elsewhere can create a whole host of unpleasant moisture damage problems such as mold, mildew, interior wood rot, and even a structural integrity issue.

Usually, the solution to wood rot woes is to remove the rot-affected piece of trim entirely and replace it with new, pre-primed lumber which can then be painted, treated with borate wood preservative, and sealed to make it impervious to water. However, if the patches of rot are very small or removing the timber would be prohibitively difficult, your handyman may be able to repair it with exterior wood filler.

Peeling Paint or Wood Stain

Want to prevent wood rot before it has a chance to take hold? Make sure the paint, wood stain, and sealant on your wooden architectural elements are in good condition. When wood collects moisture, it swells and that pushes paint outward, causing it to loosen, flake, and peel. This leaves the wood unprotected from further water incursion—and damp timber is the perfect breeding ground for rot-causing fungi. Your handyman can get the situation under control before the fungi makes its move by sanding off loose paint or stain, followed by a coat of paint and then sealer to make sure the timber underneath remains dry.

Overflowing Gutters

Okay, overflowing gutters are not a direct sign that your exterior trim is damaged—but if it's not damaged yet, it will be soon. That's because gutters that are broken or packed full of dead leaves and dirt are probably the number one cause of exterior house damage. Your gutters collect all the rain that falls on your roof and channel it safely away from the house, but when they're damaged, the water pours down your exterior walls instead, causing trouble that ranges from leaky roofs to cracked foundations—affecting everything in between (including your trim).

Mr. Handyman's expert gutter cleaning service will get your gutters sparkling clean, and we'll repair any breaks or weak points while we're up on the ladder. We can also install gutter guards to stop them from filling up so fast in the future.

How Can Exterior Trim Repair Save Money?

Now for the part you've been waiting for—how you avoid unnecessary costs and keep your money in the bank where it belongs. Here are the key reasons why exterior trim repair can help you out financially.

Decrease Utility Costs

Rotting wood doesn't just let in excess moisture—it also causes air drafts in your house that change the temperature and force your heating and cooling system to work overtime. That raises your utility bill considerably, forcing you to pay much more than you would if your wood was in good condition. If your window sills, door frames, siding, and other elements are repaired, you'll be surprised by the difference it makes for your energy costs.

Maintenance is Less Costly Than Replacement

As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that definitely applies to home maintenance. It's far more cost-effective to maintain than to replace. Don't take our word for it—The Washington Post says delaying exterior trim upkeep could cost you big bucks. Not ready to climb all over your house maintaining trim? No problem—Mr. Handyman can take care of upkeep so you don't have to worry.

Increase Property Value

Thinking of selling soon and looking for an exterior home project to boost curb appeal and increase property value? Exterior repair should definitely be on your list. Signs of decay and disrepair on window sills and other places are red flags to prospective buyers and home inspectors alike that could cause them to give your house a thumbs down.

Mr. Handyman is Your Local, Trusted Exterior Trim Repairer

Whether you're in Arlington or a nearby community such as Fairfax Station, Woodbridge, or Clifton, you can rely on quality workmanship and superior customer service from Mr. Handyman of Northern Virginia - Arlington to Haymarket, your convenient, one-call solution to get everything crossed off your list efficiently.

Give us a call today at 703-621-4817 to make a service request and chat with our friendly office staff. We're pleased to offer expert advice so you can make an informed decision about what's best for the care of your property.