Welcome, and thanks for stopping by. Whether you’re a newcomer to our beautiful high desert city or a longtime resident, maintaining your home in our unique climate comes with unique considerations. How do you keep your Southwest dream home in shape while enjoying our stunning desert environment?
Climate Concerns:
Beauty and the Challenge Living at 5,312 feet above sea level, with our crystal-clear sunny days and cool nights, means enjoying some of the country’s most beautiful weather. But our arid climate, intense sun, and dramatic temperature swings can harshly affect our homes. Don’t worry – I’ve got your back with some practical tips!
Protecting Your Home’s Exterior
Let’s start with the outside of your home. Our intense UV rays are no joke – they can seriously affect your home’s exterior paint and finishes. Here’s what you can do:
• Plan to repaint your home’s exterior every 5-7 years, which is more frequent than in humid climates. Look for high-quality, UV-resistant paints specifically formulated for our southwestern sun.
• Keep an eye on your stucco (if you have it). Our dramatic temperature swings can cause small cracks, and it’s much easier to repair them when they’re tiny rather than waiting until they become significant issues.
Challenges of Our Sandy Soil:
One thing that surprises many newcomers is how our sandy, mineral-rich soil affects homes. Here’s what to watch for:
• Check your foundation annually for signs of settling. Our soil can shift quite a bit, especially during our monsoon season.
• Consider getting a soil grading inspection every few years to ensure proper drainage away from your home.
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Embracing the Dry Life: Managing Moisture (Or Lack Thereof!)
Our dry climate means we need to think differently about moisture management:
• Install a good-quality humidifier in your home during winter months. This helps prevent wood furniture cracking and can make your home more comfortable.
• If you have wooden doors or window frames, they might need occasional adjustment as they contract in our dry climate. Keep some WD-40 handy for squeaky hinges!
The Monsoon Season
When those summer storms roll in, they can be intense! Here’s how to prepare:
• Clean your gutters and downspouts before monsoon season starts (usually July).
• Check your roof annually for loose tiles or shingles – our strong spring winds can do a number on roofing materials.
• A French drain may be required if you notice water pooling around your foundation during heavy rains.
HVAC High Desert Super Heroes
HVAC Systems work overtime to heat & cool your desert home:
• Change your air filters monthly during spring when our winds kick up all that desert dust.
• Have your swamp cooler (if you use one) serviced in early spring before the heat hits.
• Add extra insulation in your attic – it helps in both summer and winter.
What About Windows?
Our abundant sunshine is terrific, but it can be harsh on your home:
• Consider installing UV-protective films on windows, especially those facing south and west.
• Check window seals annually – our dry climate can cause them to crack and shrink.
Living in Albuquerque means embracing a unique relationship with nature and your home. You’ll need to ask yourself if those gorgeous mountain views and sunsets are worth the additional home maintenance. My answer is a resounding YES! Remember, these maintenance tasks aren’t just chores but investments in your home’s longevity and your family’s comfort. Take care of your high desert home, and it will take care of you through many beautiful New Mexican seasons.
Do you have questions about maintaining your home in our high desert climate? Drop them in the comments below or contact our local team. We love helping our community keep their homes in great shape!
Stay cool out there, Albuquerque!
P.S. Watch for our next blog post about maximizing your xeriscaping for beauty and water conservation!
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