‘Tis The Season To Be Prepping: Get Your Cape Town Rental Ready to Up Your Ratings

13.11.24 03:36 PM By Louise

Nothing says “well-maintained” like freshly painted walls. Over time, wear and tear can make any property look a little tired, especially in high-traffic areas. A quick refresh can make rooms feel more welcoming. Here are some ideas:

    • Interior touch-ups: Look for scuff marks or fading on walls, particularly around doorways and common areas. Neutral shades are ideal, creating a clean look that appeals to a wide range of guests. Durable, easy-to-clean paints are a great choice to withstand frequent turnovers.
    • Accent walls: Consider adding a bold or textured finish to a living room or bedroom wall for a memorable touch. This creates a unique focal point that guests will remember, setting your property apart.
    • Exterior facelift: First impressions start from the outside. Ensure the property’s exterior looks well-kept and inviting with a new coat of waterproof paint. This improves curb appeal and protects your building from weather-related wear.

Pretty up with a paint job

Duraflex Rubber Liquid is an advanced solution that creates a seamless, durable, and waterproof layer over your roof. It is engineered to handle intense sun and heavy rain, making it ideal for withstanding Cape Town’s extreme weather conditions. 

Here’s what you get with Duraflex: 
  1. Waterproofing wizardry: Duraflex creates a seamless barrier that prevents water from seeping in, protecting against leaks. 
  2. Sun shield: This coating provides robust UV protection, reducing sun damage and prolonging your roof’s life. 
  3. Temperature toughness: Duraflex’s elastomeric properties make it flexible, expanding and contracting with weather changes to minimise cracks. 
  4. Energy efficiency: Light-coloured Duraflex coatings reflect sunlight, helping keep your home cool and reducing energy costs. 
  5. Green goodness: Duraflex is water-based and low in VOCs, making it an environmentally friendly choice. 

Waterproofing for any weather

With unpredictable weather patterns and high humidity along the coast, waterproofing is essential. This maintenance step prevents leaks and dampness that can easily ruin a guest’s comfortable stay. Especially look out for these areas:

    • Roofs’ weak points are easily exposed by summer showers. Ensure your roof is water-resistant after the onslaught of winter storms, as this is crucial for maintaining a good reputation and high ratings among visitors.
    • Bathrooms and kitchens are prime areas for moisture buildup that can leave gross-looking stains, affecting the overall cleanliness and appeal of the property. Waterproofing helps keep tiles and grout fresh and mould-free, and the sealants around sinks and showers prevent unsightly water damage. 

Focus on fenestration

Doors and windows play a large role in guest comfort and security. Issues with creaky doors or sticky windows can inconvenience guests and affect reviews, so it’s worth giving them a once-over. Consider these steps:

    • Repainting frames: Sunlight and salty air can fade window and door frames. A quick repaint can provide a polished look.
    • Weatherproofing: Inspect doors and windows for drafts or moisture leaks. Weather-resistant sealants keep interiors dry and comfortable.
    • Replacing locks: See to it that all windows and doors can lock securely. If not, it places the safety of your guests and their belongings at risk, which will definitely be cause for online complaints. 

Outdoor overdo’s

Outdoor spaces are often what guests look forward to the most during summer holidays, so make sure your patios or balconies look their best. Small updates can make a big difference in creating an inviting, relaxing area.

    • Deck and fence painting: A deck is the perfect place for guests to unwind and needs to look well-maintained. Paint or stain can protect wood from the elements and keep it beautiful. Opt for specialised paints that withstand weather, especially in high-exposure areas.
    • Mildew control: Coastal and humid areas are prone to mildew, especially in outdoor areas. Regularly power-wash patios, walkways, and walls to keep surfaces clean and ready for guests, helping create a fresher outdoor experience.

Small upgrades for big improvements 

Guests appreciate details, and a few simple maintenance checks can greatly impact their experience and your reviews. Consider paying attention to:

    • Light fixtures and bulbs: Proper lighting makes a space feel welcoming and usable. Replace any burned-out bulbs to brighten up rooms and outdoor areas.
    • Furniture and fixtures: Wobbly tables, loose handles, and squeaky chairs can make guests uncomfortable. Tighten screws, oil hinges, and check for any furniture that may need replacement or repair.
    • Caulking and sealant: In bathrooms and kitchens, caulking can crack or discolour over time. Fresh caulk not only improves the look but also protects surfaces from moisture and mould, contributing to a cleaner and more pleasant experience.
    • Décor: Ensure your space looks stylish and pretty to enhance visitors’ impression of your rental. With a critical eye, check if everything still looks crisp and clean. Replace older items, such as scatter cushions or pictures, with something more modern.

 

Taking time in November to spruce up your holiday rental property will pay off come peak season. Guests notice and appreciate the effort you put into making their stay comfortable and memorable – an investment that is likely to reflect in positive reviews and future bookings.

If you need assistance with painting and waterproofing your Airbnb or guesthouse to put its best foot forward over the holidays, our team at Coastal Painting and Waterproofing is all about creating good impressions. Let’s do this together!
Back to Articles