KECC Tips
For home and business owners in Knoxville, TN
A First-Time Homeowner’s Guide to Exterior Maintenance in Knoxville
Welcome to Your First Home in Knoxville
Buying a home in Knoxville is a major milestone, and with it comes a new responsibility: keeping the outside in good condition year‑round. Many first‑time owners focus on interior projects and only think about the exterior when something looks obviously dirty, green, or worn.
East Tennessee’s mix of humidity, pollen, and seasonal storms means your siding, gutters, concrete, and roof all need a bit of attention on a predictable rhythm. A simple, repeatable exterior maintenance plan helps you protect your investment, keep small issues from turning into big repairs, and feel confident in how your home looks from the street.
The Three Big Exterior Zones to Watch
Instead of trying to keep track of “everything outside,” focus on three high‑impact areas first.
1. Siding, Trim, and Exterior Surfaces
Your siding and trim are your home’s first impression and its first line of defense against Knoxville’s weather. Walk around your home at least a couple of times a year and look for:
Dark streaks or green growth on siding, soffits, or trim.
Peeling or flaking paint, especially around windows, doors, and fascia boards.
Mildew or algae on shaded sides of the house, particularly the north and east‑facing walls.
Soft washing and pressure washing (used correctly) can remove buildup before it stains or damages surfaces. If you notice broad areas of staining or growth, it is usually time to schedule a professional exterior cleaning instead of trying to tackle everything yourself!
Also, consider KECC for your light carpentry jobs - siding repair, exterior door adjustment, exterior paint and stain, and more. We can make your exterior maintenance turn-key!
2. Gutters, Downspouts, and Roof Edges
Gutters and downspouts quietly protect your foundation, landscaping, and walkways by moving water away from the home. When they are clogged or pulling away, water ends up exactly where you do not want it—around the foundation, behind siding, or across sidewalks.
Check each season for:
Overflowing gutters during a rainstorm.
Downspouts that are disconnected, crushed, or dumping water against the house.
Visible debris, plants, or soil sitting in the gutters.
Routine gutter cleaning is one of the simplest ways to prevent water‑related issues, especially under Knoxville’s heavy spring and fall rains. Many first‑time homeowners prefer to outsource gutter cleaning due to ladder safety and the mess involved, which is where a recurring service plan can help.
3. Lawn care & pet waste cleanup
Your yard is the most visible part of the exterior and the one that needs attention most often. Regular lawn care—mowing, edging, trimming, and basic yard tidy‑ups—keeps your property looking intentionally maintained instead of “behind again.”
If you have dogs, pet waste adds another layer to lawn maintenance. Left on the lawn, it can burn grass, create odor issues, and make it harder to actually enjoy your outdoor space. A simple rhythm of consistent mowing plus routine pet waste cleanup keeps the yard usable, safer for kids and guests, and easier to stay on top of week to week.
Many Knoxville homeowners choose a Basic Total Care Exterior Plan so the most frequent, time‑consuming yard tasks are handled for them.
This plan gives you lawn care, pet waste cleanup, quarterly exterior inspections, AND an annual dryer vent cleaning!
A Simple Seasonal Exterior Checklist for Knoxville Homeowners
Trying to tackle every outdoor project in one weekend is a fast way to burn out and give up. Breaking tasks into a seasonal rhythm makes exterior care much more manageable.
Click on any of these services to see how KECC can help!
Spring: Reset After Winter
Inspect siding, trim, and gutters for any winter damage or staining.
Schedule driveway and walkway cleaning if you notice slick areas or heavy staining.
Summer: Maintain Curb Appeal
Keep up with lawn mowing and edging to stay ahead of rapid growth.
Watch for mildew or algae forming on shaded siding, decks, or fences.
Check irrigation overspray on concrete and siding to prevent extra staining.
Fall: Clear and Prepare
Remove fallen leaves from lawns and hard surfaces to prevent stains and slick spots.
Clean gutters after leaves drop to get ready for winter rain and snow.
Consider a house wash or exterior cleaning to remove a season’s worth of buildup.
Winter: Quick Visual Checks
Watch for ice forming on steps and walkways after freeze‑thaw cycles.
Make sure downspouts are still connected and directing water away from the home.
Use this slower season to plan bigger exterior projects for spring.
What to DIY vs. When to Call for Help
Not every exterior task needs a contractor, but not every task is a good fit for a first‑time homeowner either. A simple way to think about it:
Good DIY tasks: Light visual inspections, clearing small debris, basic touch‑up caulking, and light spraying down of small areas when safe to do so.
Better outsourced: Ladder work (gutters, higher siding), heavy buildup on siding or roofs, large driveway/walkway cleaning, and jobs where the wrong equipment or chemicals can cause damage.
Knox Exterior Care Co. regularly works with first‑time homeowners who are comfortable handling small checks but want a reliable partner for the bigger, messier, or riskier work. From simple one‑time cleanings to recurring inspection‑based exterior plans, you can keep your home’s exterior cared for with the same intentionality as the inside.
How Knox Exterior Care Co. Helps First‑Time Knoxville Homeowners
Our goal is to make exterior maintenance feel clear and manageable, not overwhelming. When first‑time homeowners in Knoxville reach out, we typically start with a quick conversation and a walk‑around of the property to identify the biggest priorities.
From there, you can:
Serving Knoxville and the surrounding areas—including Powell, Karns, Farragut, Lenoir City, Alcoa, Maryville, Fountain City, Loudon, Vonore, Oak Ridge, Halls, Louisville, Sevierville, Rarity Bay, Tennessee National, Windriver, Townsend, Clinton, Walland, Gibbs, Heiskell, Sequoyah Hills, Northshore, Downtown Knoxville, and more—we are here to help you keep your first home looking great for the long term. A few small, consistent steps now mean fewer surprises, fewer emergency repairs, and a smoother experience as you settle into homeownership in East Tennessee.
Pet Waste Cleanup in Knoxville TN: Cleaner Yards for Busy Dog Owners and Property Managers
Why Pet Waste Cleanup Matters in Knoxville
Dogs are part of the family, but the waste they leave behind can quickly turn a yard or common area into a space you avoid instead of enjoy. Between work, family, and everything else on your plate, it is easy for “scoop the yard” to keep sliding down the to‑do list.
In Knoxville’s climate, pet waste breaks down slowly, can damage grass, and creates odor and sanitation issues if it is not removed regularly. That is why Knox Exterior Care Co. offers pet waste cleanup in Knoxville TN and the surrounding communities—so homes and shared green spaces can stay clean, safe, and family‑friendly without adding another chore to your week.
Pet Waste Cleanup Made Simple
Our pet waste cleanup service is built for Knoxville dog owners and property managers who want clean lawns and common spaces without dealing with the daily mess. Instead of juggling bags, trash cans, and reminders, you choose a schedule and we handle the dirty work.
With routine visits, we:
Walk and inspect the designated areas, including lawns, dog runs, and landscaped spaces.
Scoop and remove all visible pet waste from grass and beds in a careful, systematic pattern.
Bag and dispose of waste appropriately so you never have to think about it once we leave.
Most of our clients include pet waste cleanup as part of an ongoing subscription with their other exterior services, so lawns, hardscapes, “dog duty,” and more are all handled on one simple plan.
Residential Pet Waste Removal for Knoxville Families
Our residential pet waste cleanup is ideal for Knoxville families, busy professionals, and retirees who want to actually enjoy their yard without worrying about what is hiding in the grass.
For homeowners, we offer:
Once‑per‑month scooping for routine upkeep.
Thorough cleanup in fenced yards, dog runs, and high‑traffic pet areas.
Optional pairing with lawn care so your grass is cut and your yard is clean on the same schedule.
Many residential customers choose our Home Basic Total Care Exterior Plan, which can combine lawn care, routine exterior inspections, dryer vent cleaning, and pet waste cleanup for a set‑it‑and‑forget‑it exterior maintenance experience. You get a greener, cleaner yard without needing to coordinate multiple contractors or remember separate service dates.
Pet Waste Cleanup for HOAs, Rentals, and Businesses
Dog waste is a major complaint driver for HOAs, apartment communities, dog‑friendly rentals, and commercial properties with green spaces. When common areas are not cleaned regularly, residents and guests notice—and property managers hear about it.
Our commercial pet waste cleanup helps keep shared areas clean, compliant, and more enjoyable for everyone. We service:
HOAs and condo associations.
Apartment communities and townhome complexes.
Dog parks, shared greens, and designated pet relief areas.
Dog‑friendly offices, retail centers, and other commercial properties.
If you are a commercial client, you can also ask about a standalone Pet Waste Cleanup subscription, or fold cleanup into a broader exterior care plan for the property.
Pricing and One‑Time Services
For one‑time or catch‑up visits, our pet waste cleanup service is priced at $50 per animal. This is a great option if your yard has gotten ahead of you or you want the property cleaned before a party, gathering, or move‑in.
From there, many homeowners and managers move into a recurring schedule so they do not slip back into “I’ll get to it later” territory. Subscription‑based service smooths out the workload and keeps yards and common spaces consistently ready to use.
Reach out to us here about a plan or one-off service!
Pet‑ and People‑Safe Service
We are dog people, too, and we treat your yard like our own. During pet waste cleanup, we never use harsh chemicals or agents—just a thorough, hands‑on clean so your dogs can roam, play, and relax in a yard that is safe for paws, noses, and bellies.
That approach also protects kids, guests, and residents who use the same outdoor spaces every day. Clean, well‑maintained yards and common areas send a clear message: this property is cared for and people are welcome here.
Service Area for Pet Waste Cleanup in Knoxville TN
We provide pet waste cleanup throughout Knox County and the surrounding communities, including Powell, Karns, Farragut, Lenoir City, Alcoa, Maryville, Fountain City, Loudon, Vonore, Rarity Bay, Tennessee National, WindRiver, Oak Ridge, Halls, Louisville, Sevierville, Townsend, Clinton, Walland, John Sevier, Downtown Knoxville, New Market, Gibbs, Heiskell, Sequoyah Hills, Northshore, and more.
Whether you are a first‑time homeowner, long‑time dog owner, HOA board member, or property manager, we can help you build a schedule that keeps your yard or shared greenspaces clean without you having to think about it every week.
From one‑time scoop‑only visits to pet waste cleanup bundled with lawn care and total exterior maintenance, your outdoor areas can stay ready to use instead of “one more thing on your list.”
Deck and Fence Care for East Tennessee Outdoor Living Spaces
Outdoor living spaces are a big part of enjoying life in East Tennessee.
Decks, fences, and railings see sun, rain, foot traffic, and more—often without much attention until they start to look tired or feel unsafe.
Thoughtful, regular care helps your wood and composite structures stay beautiful and functional for years.
Common issues with decks and fences:
Mold, mildew, and algae making boards slick and discolored
UV exposure causing fading, cracking, and drying of boards
Loose fasteners, splinters, and wobbly railings developing over time
Benefits of regular cleaning and inspection:
Restores a cleaner, more inviting surface for everyday use and gatherings
Helps identify soft spots, rot, or damage before major repairs are needed
Extends the life of coatings, stains, and protective finishes
A cleaned and well-maintained deck or fence isn’t just nicer to look at—it’s more comfortable and safer to walk on and lean against.
Even simple steps like a periodic wash and quick hardware check can make a noticeable difference in how your space looks and feels.
Knox Exterior Care Co. can help you evaluate your outdoor spaces and determine the right level of care, from basic cleaning to more detailed inspections.
That way, you can spend less time worrying about deck boards and more time actually enjoying your backyard.
How Knoxville’s Pollen and Humidity Impact Your Home’s Exterior
Keeping your property looking sharp in East Tennessee is a constant battle with pollen, humidity, and changing weather.
Those green and yellow films you see on siding, decks, and driveways are more than just an eyesore—they quietly wear on your exterior surfaces over time.
Left alone, they can contribute to staining, premature aging, and even slippery, unsafe walking areas.
How pollen affects your exterior:
Builds up on siding, windows, and doors, dulling your home’s appearance
Feeds mold and mildew growth when combined with moisture
Collects in small crevices, trim details, and porch railings
Why humidity makes it worse in East Tennessee:
Creates a damp environment where mold and mildew thrive
Extends the time surfaces stay wet after rain or morning dew
Accelerates rot on wood trim, decks, and fences when not maintained
Over time, these conditions can reduce paint life, weaken caulking and seals, and increase the chances of wood rot in exposed areas.
That’s why regular exterior cleaning, soft washing, and inspections aren’t just cosmetic—they’re a practical way to protect your property from our local environment.
If you’re noticing buildup on your siding, a film on your porch railings, or slick spots on walkways, it may be time for a professional cleaning.
Knox Exterior Care Co. can assess your property and recommend a maintenance rhythm that fits both the local climate and your specific home.
Stop Juggling Contractors: How KECC’s Total Care Exterior Plan Works (Knoxville Homeowners Guide)
If you own a home or small business in Knoxville, you already know how overwhelming exterior upkeep can get—gutters, lawns, siding, windows, paint, and random repairs all seem to scream for attention at once. Most people respond by hiring a different “guy off Facebook” for each job, hoping for the best and crossing their fingers on quality, reliability, and insurance.
Knox Exterior Care Co. exists to solve exactly that problem by acting as your one trusted, licensed exterior maintenance partner rather than a revolving door of strangers. Our Total Care Exterior Plans bundle recurring services into a simple, predictable schedule so you can stop managing projects and get back to enjoying your property.
What is an exterior maintenance subscription?
An exterior maintenance subscription is a recurring service plan where KECC handles the routine cleaning and upkeep your property needs throughout the year for a flat, predictable rate. Instead of calling around every time something looks dirty or overgrown, your visits are scheduled, tracked, and handled proactively.
For most Knoxville homeowners, that means things like lawn care, seasonal cleanups, gutter and window cleaning, and periodic exterior washing, siding repair, pest control, and more stay on autopilot with a crew that already knows your property.
How KECC’s subscription service works
Here is how a typical Total Care Exterior Plan works from first contact to first visit:
Walkthrough & goals
We start with a quick phone call or onsite walkthrough to understand your property, your problem areas, and your budget.
This is where we prioritize what matters most to you: curb appeal, safety, HOA compliance, or simply not thinking about yard work anymore.
Choose plan & schedule
Choose from our pre-built subscription tiers - which ever scenario best fits your needs. View our subscription packages here.
Simple, transparent pricing
Your services are packaged into a clear monthly investment with no surprise add‑ons or “trip fees” buried in the fine print.
When you need something outside the plan, we quote it upfront so you always know what to expect.
Proactive service, not last‑minute scrambling
Your visits are scheduled in advance and tracked in our system so you don’t have to remember when things were last done.
You can text, call, or email if you want to adjust timing or add a service; we stay flexible while keeping your core plan on track.
Why this beats hiring random contractors
Many Knoxville homeowners bounce from one cheap contractor to another, which usually leads to inconsistent work, poor communication, and no accountability if something goes wrong.
With KECC, you work with a verified, insured, and licensed contractor that stands behind its work and values long‑term relationships—not one‑off jobs. You get:
One point of contact for multiple exterior needs
A crew that becomes familiar with your property
Professional communication and scheduling
Clear documentation and photos when appropriate
What can be included in a Total Care Exterior Plan?
Your plan can cover many of the services KECC offers for homes and small businesses around Knoxville. Popular recurring items include:
Lawn care: mowing, edging, and basic leaf management as the growing season ramps up
Pet waste clean up so your yard is safe for kids, guests, and four‑legged family members
Routine commercial window cleaning for storefronts and offices
Periodic exterior washing and minor exterior repairs to keep siding, shutters, and doors looking sharp
& More!
We help you prioritize what should be done monthly, seasonally, or annually based on your property and goals.
Who is a good fit for a KECC subscription?
A KECC subscription is ideal if you:
Are busy with work and family and don’t want weekends eaten by yard work
Don’t want to juggle multiple contractors or worry about whether someone is insured and reputable
Care about long‑term property value and curb appeal
Own a rental, Airbnb, or small business and need consistent exterior presentation
If you are tired of chasing quotes and “no‑show” contractors, a subscription gives you predictable service from a local company that is invested in your property and reputation.
How to get started
Getting started is simple:
Visit our Total Care Exterior Plan page to see what can be included in your subscription.
Check out the KECC Tips blog for more exterior maintenance advice specific to Knoxville properties.
Request a quote online or call/text our team to schedule your walkthrough.
With one trusted partner handling your exterior maintenance, you can stop juggling contractors and enjoy a home or business that looks cared for year‑round.
The Importance of Regular Exterior Maintenance for Your Property
The Importance of Regular Exterior Maintenance for Your Property
Keeping the exterior of your home or business in top condition isn’t just about “curb appeal”—it’s about preventing costly repairs and protecting your investment. East Tennessee’s changing seasons bring rain, pollen, sun exposure, and humidity, all of which can damage siding, paint, windows, and roofing if left unchecked.
Benefits of regular exterior maintenance:
Prevents mold, mildew, and pest infestation
Extends the lifespan of siding, roofs, and paint
Preserves property value for resale or appraisal
Enhances first impressions for guests and customers
Monthly and quarterly inspection plans allow you to catch small issues before they become expensive headaches. At Knox Exterior Care Co., we provide customized inspection reports and actionable recommendations, so owners stay ahead of the maintenance curve.