Every home is different. Some have brick exteriors, some are covered in stone, or stucco, or a number of other materials. And each withstands the elements and changing seasons of Georgia’s climate differently. It’s important to watch for the signs when your home is asking for some maintenance, and there are some tricks to saving money and avoiding the headaches that come when you don’t keep up with your home.

Georgia has four very different seasons throughout the year that bring with them a wide range of temperatures and a variety of changes in the elements. The spring and fall are generally mild, but produce a good amount of rain, which can sometimes damage homes. Certain areas get lots of wind as well, potentially harming roofs and other parts of the house. Another thing to know about Georgia’s weather is that it’s unpredictable and inconsistent. That quick change in temperature makes it even trickier to maintain the exterior of your home.

So I asked for advice from someone whose career revolves around home maintenance and got some excellent ideas.

In the summer it can be extremely humid and hot, getting above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun can dry out, bleach, and even melt certain materials if not well taken care of. Here are some specific things you can do for your home to prepare for summer:

– Caulk exterior windows.

– Check caulk on roof pipe jacks.

– Maintain landscaping slope away from home so water does not enter. If pop ups have been installed on the rain gutter down spouts, make sure the grass has not grown over these areas or else they will not function as intended.

– Clean out rain gutters.

– Paint exterior surfaces that have peeled or flaked.

– Treat exterior wood (front doors, timbers, etc.) per manufacturer’s warranty.

In the winter, central Georgia’s (Atlanta) days are mostly warm enough to go without a coat ‘ though a coat might be needed on a few of the coldest days. Nighttime lows fall into the low to mid 30s during December, January and February, but snow and ice are rare. Daytime highs are in the mid to upper 50s, so a light jacket or sweater will do the trick on most winter afternoons. Wintertime visitors will enjoy the city’s many holiday festivals and celebrations. Here are some tips for preparing your home for the winter:

– Remove hoses from hose bibs. If not removed, pipe could freeze and break, resulting in flooding in the home.

– Seal all exterior concrete. Your driveway and sidewalks are porous and they will expand and contract with the changing temperature, potentially cracking and crumbling if not well maintained.

Georgia diverse climate makes it beautiful and exciting! By following the tips we’ve listed above, you and your home will be better prepared for the varied weather and temperature patterns throughout the year. And luckily, Atlaro International & Co. takes into account the seasonal changes and uses the right materials for your home.