### Summer Exterior Protection (June-August)

UV Defense and Heat Management

Summer brings intense UV radiation and extreme temperatures that accelerate exterior material degradation. Strategic summer maintenance protects your investment during the most demanding season.

Monthly Summer Exterior Care:

Paint and Coating Maintenance

1. Heat and UV Damage Assessment - Check south and west-facing surfaces monthly - Look for paint chalking, fading, or brittleness - Monitor for bubbling or peeling paint - Test paint adhesion in vulnerable areas

2. Surface Preparation for Touch-ups Ideal Painting Conditions: - Temperature 50-85°F - Low humidity (less than 70%) - No direct sunlight on work surface - No rain expected for 24 hours

Summer Painting Strategy: - Work early morning or late afternoon - Follow shade around house - Use slow-drying primers in heat - Plan major painting for fall

Siding Cleaning and Maintenance

Monthly Cleaning Protocol:

Vinyl Siding Cleaning (Time: 2-3 hours):

1. Equipment and Materials - Pressure washer (1,500-2,000 PSI) or garden hose - Soft bristle brush with extension pole - Mild detergent solution (dish soap works well) - Drop cloths for landscaping protection

2. Cleaning Process - Start from top, work downward - Use 30-degree spray nozzle, keep 12 inches away - Work in 4-foot sections for consistent results - Rinse thoroughly to prevent soap residue

Wood Siding Summer Care:

- Clean monthly with mild detergent - Check for loose boards or trim - Touch up paint chips immediately - Monitor moisture content in vulnerable areas

Foundation Summer Monitoring

Heat-Related Foundation Issues: - Soil shrinkage causing settling - Expansion joint movement - Increased basement humidity - Landscape watering effects on foundation

Summer Foundation Tasks: - Maintain consistent soil moisture - Monitor expansion joints for movement - Check basement humidity levels - Adjust landscape watering patterns