Exterior

ROOF

While your structure may not be experiencing leaks, do take time to inspect your roof at least twice a year. Doing so will help you evaluate the condition of your roof before causing any damage to your walls and ceilings.

For galvanized iron sheets, check for defects and breaks on the seal. Depending on the degree of damage, you may opt to apply sealants or replace sheets. Equally, check the valleys and flashing for holes and rust spots. Remove rust by sanding, wire brushing and as necessary, use  BOYSEN^® Metal Etching Solution #71 only on the rusted portion. Let it stay for 10-15 minutes. Clean your roof then apply a coat of metal primer on treated portions, bare substrate, and chalky areas. Finish with two (2) coats of BOYSEN^® Roofgard™ for extra durability and protection.

In relation to your roof, make it a habit to inspect and clean your gutters and downspouts regularly. Remember that clogged gutters can cause rain water to pour along the sides of your foundation. This may cause water seepage to your ceilings and/or walls. Equally, give your gutters extra protection from rust by coating it with BOYSEN^® Roofgard™.

 For roof decks, check for signs of deterioration like cracks and possible sources of water seepage. Make sure all surfaces are clean. Putty small cracks with BOYSEN^® Acrytex™ Cast #1711 or BOYSEN^® Plexibond™ #7760 for mortar patching. Apply corrective civil works for larger cracks. Should you want to paint, best to use BOYSEN^® Acqua Epoxy™.

EXTERIOR WALLS

Check exterior walls for leaks, stains, cracks and possible sources or signs of water seepage. If any of these are present, patching and repainting is recommended. 

Start by cleaning the surface with soap and water. Use hose and scrub to remove mud and silt from the wall. Treat mildew growth with disinfectants or a 1:3 solution of laundry bleach to water, respectively. Let stay for twenty-four (24) hours then wash off residue with water. Allow all cleaned surfaces to dry before painting.

Once the exterior area is dry, remove all loose, scaling, flaking and peeling off paint. Let dry. Putty small cracks with BOYSEN^® Acrytex™ Cast #1711 or BOYSEN^® Plexibond™ #7760 for mortar patching. Apply corrective civil works for larger cracks.

For chalking old paint, cover all areas with one (1) layer of BOYSEN^® Chalk Blocker™ #7304. Let dry for two (2) hours before applying the topcoat.

You may use the following products to finish the job:

• BOYSEN^® KNOxOUT™ Air Cleaning Paint
• BOYSEN^® Elasti-Kote™ Elastomeric Wall Covering
• BOYSEN^® Acrytex™
• BOYSEN^® Wallguard™ Dirt Resisting Latex
• BOYSEN^® Permacoat™ Latex
• Titan Superflex™ Elastomeric Paint

Interior

INTERIOR WALLS & CEILINGS

After making sure that you have checked and addressed necessary sources of water seepage from your exteriors, only then will it be best to start painting your interiors. A general rule: Conduct your painting projects under good weather conditions to attain optimum results.

See tips for Exterior Wall and Roofs from the Exterior Section of this Article.

Other Home Concerns

Here are some other things that you should also check and prepare for:

• Basement – Inspect for signs of water seepage. If watermarks are present, you may want to consult a professional regarding resealing and waterproofing the area
• Documents – Keep important documents, like birth certificates and land titles, in waterproof containers and in a safe place that is easily retrieved in case you would need to evacuate. If possible, make digital copies as back-up.
• Electrical – Make sure that all power boxes and electrical wires have been secured. In case of power cuts, prepare temporary sources of energy, light and communication medium like batteries, flashlights and battery-powered radios.
• Emergency Kit – Maintain a healthy supply of food, clean drinking water and first aid kits.

•  Furniture – If there is possibility of flooding, move furniture and valuables to the highest or higher floors of the structure.
• Stairs and Walkways – Inspect for signs of water seepage. If watermarks are present, you may want to consult a professional regarding resealing and waterproofing the area.
• Trees – Trim overhanging branches to minimize roof damage.