Just like you spring clean your home, it is always a good idea to take some time to focus on thoroughly cleaning and maintaining your metal post frame building.
Metal post frame buildings are considered to be low maintenance, rugged and durable structures, however, you won’t regret the time spent to make sure your building is free of any problems that could cause performance issues or expensive repairs later on.
Maintaining your metal post frame building is also important for safety reasons. If your building falls in disrepair, it can turn into a safety hazard. If your metal post frame building is used for commercial business, you are legally responsible to keep it a safe working environment.
1. Wash the Exterior
The exterior of your metal post frame building takes a lot of snow, wind, and dust in a year’s time. Every spring, it is recommended to give the exterior a thorough power wash to remove any dirt, grime, or debris that may have accumulated on the siding, doors, and windows over the winter.
If you do not own a high-pressure washer, you can always hire a company that specializes in exterior power washing. Or you can try using a regular garden hose combined with some soap, water, and some thick sponges and try tackling this project on your own.
2. Touch Up Painting
While you are washing the exterior of your metal post frame building, keep an eye out for any scratches, indents, or minor abrasions. It is very important to make sure to repair any surface imperfections to avoid rust and mold. We recommend contacting your building provider should you need paint. They will be able to make sure you have the correct paint and perfect color to match.
3. Inspect the Roof
It is a very wise idea to inspect the roof for any punctures, indents, or loose screws. All these issues could cause rust spots on the roof but could also allow rain and moisture into your building, causing extensive damage.
4. Clean Gutter and Drains
During the fall and winter seasons, leaves and debris will accumulate inside the gutters and need to be removed before they cause more damage. You can tackle this yourself or hire a professional for the job. Clogs, water pooling, and sagging gutters can all occur if gutters are neglected.
If you have water drains in your floor, now is a great time to get in there and make sure they are not clogged.
5. Trim Hedges
If you have any hedges or bushes scraping against the metal siding of your post frame building, it could be causing surface scratches. Hedges or bushes encourage a lot of moisture to stay up against the siding. If left unattended, this could cause the scratches to rust or mold.
6. Clean the Floors
If your metal post frame building has a concrete floor, spring is a great time to sweep every corner. If any mud has become thick mounds of dirt, scrape and sweep those up first. Once the large pieces of dirt have been removed, you can sweep up the rest or use a heavy-duty vacuum. To give your building that brand new shine, you can mop up the floor or use power washer.
7. Inspect Walls for Insulated Exposure
If your metal post frame building is insulated, ensure there is no exposure, damage, or evidence of moisture in your walls. Any insulation that maintains contact with the air is at risk for water contamination. Insulation contaminated with moisture will not preform properly resulting in greater energy required to heat and cool the building.
Another negative effect of trapped moisture in walls is the longer the moisture lingers, the risk of mold and rust increases. Do not let a problem like insulation exposure remain – you don’t want to have to replace an entire wall.
8. Spray for Pests
Small pests can do a lot of harm if unattended too long. Birds and other small animals can be the culprits in exposing the insulation to the elements while they try to build nests for themselves. Pay attention to any signs of pests and other animals causing damage, no matter how small it may be, and call an exterminator, if needed.
9. Examine Doors and Windows
Check that your walk doors open and close naturally. Make sure the hinges are well-oiled and that no damage has occurred along the edge. The seal along the door frame should not leak or show signs of mold. If such signs appear, attempt to clean, and disinfect the mold. Otherwise, replace the sealing.
The same principle applies to your windows. Ensure they maintain an optimally firm seal. If your metal post frame building requires weather stripping on windows, ensure the sealing has not deteriorated. Just like doors, lubricate their mechanism and check that nothing impedes their closure.
If you have overhead garage doors make sure they open smoothly and completely. Also check if the bottom seal does not leak or have mold. If your overhead garage door needs attention, you can contact your building provider for a garage door service professional.
Happy Spring from Alpine Custom Builders!