Just like your home needs periodic maintenance to keep it in shape, your outdoor dog kennel maintenance is also very important in order to help you realize its full potential. Here are a few pointers that will help you get the most out of your kennel.
Wood Siding and Trim
Outdoor dog kennels come with a few different exterior siding options. One of the most beautiful options is painted or stained wood siding. The downside of wood siding is that it usually requires a little more maintenance to keep it in top shape. This also applies to wood trim.
The key to keeping wood siding performing and looking the way it should is to keep the paint or stain job up to date. If the paint on your puppy kennel is peeling or cracking, then moisture and harmful UV rays have already begun to damage the wood. On average, wood siding should be repainted or stained every 4-6 years (before the water-tight seal of the old paint is compromised). Be sure to remove all dirt and mildew before applying a fresh coat of paint or stain.
A Dog Kennel Base
Another way to keep your large dog kennel looking good is to have it installed on a level base. The best base material is crushed stone, installed at a depth of at least 3-4” and at least 12″ wider than the shed. Here are the advantages of a level, crushed stone base:
- Water will drain away from the underside of the kennel (keeping it dry and preventing rot and decay).
- The uneven surface of the crushed stone helps to diffuse the water that runs off the roof, reducing the amount of water that splashes onto the kennel.
- A thick stone base keeps grass and weeds from growing under and around the kennel.
- A crushed stone base is relatively easy and inexpensive to install.
Alternatively, a thick bed of wood chips or a level concrete pad can also be used as a base for your Amish dog kennel.
A Few More Dog Kennel Maintenance Tips
Here are a few more things to keep in mind when maintaining your dog kennel.
- Check around doors and windows for caulk or seal strips that may have cracked or pulled away with age and replace it as necessary.
- Keep an eye out for loose or missing roof shingles.
- Trim away tree branches that are making contact with the kennel.
- Periodically clean and disinfect the inside of your insulated dog kennel (your dogs will thank you!)
Follow these simple steps for years of enjoyment and a maximum return on your residential or commercial dog kennel investment! Check out this article for some more tips and information on proper dog kennel maintenance.
