Download the Minto Home Care Guide - Condo

Painting
Note: Contact your condominium corporation’s Board of Directors for more
information on exterior painting.
The need to repaint exterior surfaces cannot be avoided although the frequency
of repainting can be extended through regular care and maintenance.
The exterior of your condominium has been in most cases, painted with
a latex overcoat permitting humidity to travel through the wood to reduce
peeling. Water from garden sprinklers, damp shrubbery close to the wall, small
cracks in the siding or around doors and windows, contribute to paint or stain
deterioration. Excessive interior relative humidity, especially from kitchens and
bathrooms, can also increase exterior wood moisture content. In time, moisture
in wood siding or trim contributes to the need to repaint surfaces.
While any colour of paint will provide adequate protection, brilliant and/or
dark colours may fade more rapidly on the south and west sides of the
condominium, which is exposed to the sun for longer durations throughout
the day. These areas may require frequent repainting to maintain their
original appearance.
Siding
Factory fi nished aluminium or vinyl siding does not require painting. Due to
the smooth texture, it can usually be kept clean by rinsing, although some
light scrubbing with a mild detergent may be necessary in some areas.
Power spray washers may force water behind siding, which could damage
the exterior wall sheathing.
Temperature changes and wood shrinkage cause expansion and contraction
of the siding. As a result, slight gaps may appear in the joints. Repairs will only
be made to excessive gaps and bulges, which appear to be permanent during
the warranty period.
Weather-stripping
Weather-stripping has been installed around moving parts such as doors
and windows to reduce air leaks and drafts. It should be checked annually
to ensure that it is eff ectively reducing air leaks in winter and dust and dirt
infi ltration in summer.
Although windows and doors are weather-stripped, they are not 100 percent
weatherproof in extreme conditions. By design, a limited amount of air is
expected to leak into the house to replace air forced out by exhaust fans
and mechanical venting.
If weather-stripping is cracked or damaged, it should be replaced. Many types
are available, some of which are adjustable. Be sure that the product purchased
is well suited for the intended use.
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