Maintaining Wood Trim and Siding in Calgary's Changing Seasons
Calgary's climate presents unique challenges for homeowners with wood trim and siding. From freezing winters to hot, dry summers, and everything in between, your home's exterior wooden elements need special care to maintain their appearance and structural integrity. In this guide, we'll share expert tips on how to protect and maintain your wood trim and siding throughout Calgary's changing seasons.
Understanding Calgary's Climate Challenges
Calgary experiences extreme temperature fluctuations, low humidity, intense UV exposure in summer, and freeze-thaw cycles in winter. These conditions can cause wood to:
- Expand and contract, leading to cracks
- Dry out and splinter
- Fade from UV exposure
- Develop moisture problems during spring thaws
- Suffer damage from ice and snow accumulation
Seasonal Maintenance Guide
Spring Maintenance (March-May)
As temperatures rise and snow melts, this is the perfect time to assess winter damage and prepare for summer:
- Inspect thoroughly: Check for cracks, splits, water damage, and areas where paint is peeling or bubbling.
- Clean surfaces: Remove dirt, debris, and any salt residue using a gentle cleaner appropriate for wood.
- Address minor damage: Fill small cracks with exterior wood filler and sand smooth once dry.
- Schedule repairs: For significant damage, spring is the ideal time to schedule professional repairs before summer heat arrives.
Summer Protection (June-August)
Calgary's summers bring intense UV radiation and occasional severe storms:
- Apply UV protection: Use high-quality exterior paints or stains with UV inhibitors to prevent fading and damage.
- Choose the right paint: 100% acrylic latex paints offer excellent durability and flexibility for Calgary's climate.
- Consider timing: Paint when temperatures are between 10-25°C with low humidity for optimal results.
- Maintain proper drainage: Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from wood trim and siding.
Fall Preparation (September-November)
Before winter arrives, take these steps to protect your wood:
- Seal gaps and cracks: Use exterior-grade caulk to seal any gaps around trim, windows, and doors.
- Touch up paint: Address any areas where paint has worn thin to provide a protective barrier.
- Trim vegetation: Cut back trees and shrubs that touch your home to prevent moisture retention.
- Clean gutters: Remove debris to prevent ice dams that can force moisture into wood elements.
Winter Protection (December-February)
During Calgary's harsh winters:
- Remove snow buildup: Gently clear snow from wood trim and siding to prevent moisture damage.
- Address ice dams: Remove ice buildup from gutters and roof edges to prevent water infiltration.
- Monitor for issues: Periodically check for new damage during winter thaws.
Best Practices for Long-Term Protection
Choosing the Right Products
Not all exterior paints and stains are created equal, especially for Calgary's unique climate:
- Paint vs. Stain: Paint provides more protection but requires more preparation; stains penetrate the wood but may need more frequent reapplication.
- Quality matters: Invest in premium products specifically formulated for extreme weather conditions.
- Consider elastomeric coatings: These specialized paints expand and contract with the wood, providing excellent protection in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.
Professional Maintenance Schedule
For optimal protection of your wood trim and siding in Calgary:
- Inspect thoroughly twice yearly (spring and fall)
- Clean surfaces annually
- Touch up paint as needed
- Repaint or restain every 5-7 years, depending on exposure and product quality
- Consider professional inspection every 2-3 years to catch issues early
When to Call the Professionals
While regular maintenance can be handled by homeowners, some situations call for professional expertise:
- Extensive wood rot or damage
- Large areas of peeling or bubbling paint
- Signs of water infiltration behind siding
- Complete repainting projects
- Homes with historical significance or specialized finishes
At Premier Painters Calgary, we specialize in maintaining, repairing, and beautifying wood trim and siding for Calgary homes. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges of our local climate and can help protect your home's exterior wooden elements year-round.
Contact us today at (587) 715-2727 or info@premierpainterscalgary.ca to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help maintain your home's wood trim and siding throughout Calgary's changing seasons, visit https://www.premierpainterscalgary.ca/ for more info.
Back to Blog