August 16, 2017 by Snupit
If you have opted to build a carport outdoors and to utilise the garage as a workshop, or storage area, you will want to ensure your investment sees a long and happy life. After all, your carport is responsible for keeping your vehicles safe and covered. Keeping your carport clean will also ensure that your homes kerb appeal is spot-on, especially because a high structure like a carport is visible from far away. Here are some tips on keeping your carport clean and well maintained.
1. Clean its vascular system
The downpipes and gutters of your carport are sort of like its vascular system. They remove unwanted leaves, water and debris from the roof. If one of the downpipes or gutters becomes blocked, it can cause a slow build-up of water and leaves, which can start to damage the structure and eventually really make its mark, if left. It can leave unsightly marks, encourage rust and mould growth.
2. Sweep out the leaves
As we mentioned previously, blocked drain pipes and clogged gutters are terrible for the well-being of your carport. Autumn generally sees lots of leaves falling from trees, and winds tend to pick up too. Just be more aware of keeping your carport clear of leaves during the cooler months. Leaves combined with rain can cause an unpleasant, squishy, decaying build-up in the gutters if they are left to rot. Rather sweep them out early.
3. Keep children and animals off your corrugated carport
This point serves two parties at once. It serves the children, because corrugated iron is actually not strong enough to hold the weight of a human, and if children walk along the structure, it may cause earlier decay and disrepair. Keeping children and animals off carport roofs will protect the carport roof as well as the animals and the children.
4. Paint it with sealant
Painting your carport may sound like an enormously tedious task, but metal carports are actually easier to maintain than wooden ones. Metal carports are susceptible to rust and corrosion, and a coat of paint once in a while will definitely extend its life and improve its appearance. Ensure that the primer and the paint you decide to use are compatible. Getting paint to adhere to the metallic surface can be tricky. Simply roughen up the surface with sandpaper first, and ensure that you have waited for each coat to dry properly before applying a new one. If your paints start to peel away, prepare your surface with greater care.
Having a presentable and practical way to store your vehicles, and increase your property value, can be extremely helpful in the home environment. Ensure that your carport is built to shield the vehicles from the sun at the hottest time of the day, and know in which directions your winds blow because the wind will hit the car with rain. Maintaining your carport need not be a big, overwhelming task to see to, simply have a professional install and maintain your carport for you. Find a reputable installer right here on Snupit.