Exterior Maintenance Tips Property Managers and Facility Managers Should Follow to Avoid Costly Repairs
Whether you oversee a commercial property, industrial building, multi-family community, or a large campus, staying ahead of exterior maintenance is one of the most important responsibilities for property managers and facility managers. In Southern California’s climate—where intense sun, coastal moisture, and year-round exposure can quickly deteriorate building surfaces—proactive exterior care is essential.
A strategic maintenance plan not only protects the property but also helps avoid costly repairs, unexpected downtime, and frustrated tenants or residents. Below are key exterior maintenance tips every property manager and facility manager should follow, along with how Pilot Painting can support your long-term maintenance goals.
1. Schedule Regular Exterior Inspections
Annual or semi-annual exterior inspections help property and facility managers catch early signs of damage before they escalate. Key things to look for include:
Stucco cracks
Fading, peeling, or chalking paint
Rust on metal surfaces
Water intrusion or staining
Damaged caulking and expansion joints
Exposed wood or dry rot
Early detection allows for timely repairs, lower costs, and better planning.
Pilot Painting Property
Pilot Painting inspecting an multi-family unit exterior for cracks, peeling paint, rust, and maintenance issues.
2. Prioritize Surface Prep and Repairs
Proper preparation is the most important factor in extending the life of a building’s exterior. For property managers and facility managers, choosing a contractor who emphasizes prep work is essential.
A thorough prep process includes:
Power washing
Scraping and sanding failing paint
Repairing stucco
Replacing or patching damaged wood
Treating rusted metal
Proper priming
Pilot Painting is known for its detailed prep process, ensuring long-lasting results and reducing future maintenance needs.
3. Maintain Waterproofing and Sealants
Southern California’s climate can quickly break down sealants, leaving buildings vulnerable to water intrusion. Property managers and facility managers should routinely assess:
Window and door seals
Roofline intersections
Expansion joints
Cracked stucco or siding
Refreshing caulking and sealants is an inexpensive way to prevent major structural repairs.
4. Address Rust and Corrosion Early
Coastal properties in San Diego, Orange County, and Long Beach face accelerated corrosion due to salt air. Rust left untreated can weaken metal and compromise safety.
Ongoing maintenance should include:
Rust removal and sanding
Rust-inhibitive primers
Durable direct-to-metal coating systems
Facility managers who stay ahead of corrosion avoid costly replacements and improve building longevity.
5. Schedule Routine Washing
Pollutants, mildew, dirt, and debris build up faster than you may realize. For property managers and facility managers responsible for curb appeal, annual or semiannual power washing helps:
Maintain a clean, professional appearance
Prevent mildew and mold
Reduce the wear on coating systems
Lower future prep and painting costs
A clean property reflects positively on management and enhances overall building health.
Make it stand out
Pilot Painting power washing to maintain a clean appearance and help prevent mildew and mold
6. Develop a Multi-Year Exterior Maintenance Plan
A long-term plan helps property and facility managers reduce surprises and budget more efficiently. Your plan should include:
Annual inspections
Scheduled repairs
Waterproofing cycles
Repaint timelines
Reserve budgeting
Pilot Painting provides free exterior assessments and can help create a long-term maintenance roadmap tailored to your property.
7. Repaint Before Major Deterioration Occurs
Waiting too long to repaint often results in unnecessary repairs and increased labor costs. Proactive repainting protects the building envelope, improves appearance, and ensures tenant or resident satisfaction.
Most properties in Southern California benefit from repainting every 8–10 years depending on coating type and exposure.
Pilot Painting repainting an HOA located in Southern California.
Why Property Managers and Facility Managers Choose Pilot Painting
With over 50 years of experience, Pilot Painting is a trusted partner for property managers and facility teams across Southern California. We provide:
Large-scale exterior repaints
Detailed inspections and clear proposals
Stucco, wood repair, and waterproofing
Safe, efficient work with minimal disruption
Durable coating systems built for Southern California climates
Consistent communication from start to finish
We understand the demands placed on property and facility management—and we ensure every project supports your goals for safety, efficiency, and asset protection.
Schedule a Free Exterior Assessment
Pilot Painting offers complimentary property walks and detailed recommendations to help you stay ahead of maintenance and avoid costly surprises.
Contact us today to schedule your free assessment!
Visit Us at www.pilotpainting.com for more details.