Summer is here and the sun is out in full force.  Just like your skin is susceptible to sun damage so is your house.  Make sure your home is protected by focusing on these four essential elements:

• To ensure you get the most out of your exterior paint, choose a top-quality brand that will better withstand the harsh summer sun.  Depending on how much direct sunlight you have on your home, trees make a great barrier adding shade to the yard.  The extra benefit is that it will add “life” to your home’s paint job and your landscaping strategy as a whole.
• The roof also absorbs the brunt of the sun’s power and can be the first to show sun damage.  There’s not much you can do about this, but you can make periodic inspections yourself and make any necessary repairs as they present themselves.
• Keep your cold A/C inside and the summer heat outside by checking the caulking around your window.  You may also consider adding awnings to prevent the heat from penetrating or keeping the blinds/curtains drawn during the hottest time of the day.  This will keep your home cooler and keep your electric bill down as best as possible.
• One of the top ways to protect your deck from the summer heat is by sealing it with a high quality, weather proof, UV resistant sealer.  The sealer will help your deck fight back against fading and warping.  Another option is to add a retractable awning which you can pull over the space during the hottest parts of the day.  Or consider adding a sunroom which gives you shade and a more functional, year-round space.

**Ryan Wheeler is an expert real estate agent and military veteran serving buyers and sellers of homes in the Shreveport-Bossier City area.  Connect With Me Here