View our home exterior maintenance checklist to keep your home in excellent condition throughout the year. Owning and caring for your home is a big responsibility, however the right home exterior checklist and tips from our professionals allow for easy upkeep. Easily navigate your home’s upkeep with this home exterior checklist.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts to Avoid Water Damage and Wood Rot
- Gutters and downspouts should direct water away from the house.
- Ensure that gutters are flush to the roof, with no sags or dips, as they will expand and contract in climates where there’s a lot of freezing and thawing.
- Consider installing gutter guards to reduce or eliminate debris accumulation.
Inspect Your Roof to Avoid Interior Water Damage and Mold
- Shingles that curl (turn up) and claw (turndown) can make your roof inefficient and susceptible to leaks.
- Check the flashing on chimneys, skylights or other openings where leaks typically occur.
- Inspect the rafters, insulation and around any openings in the attic for water stains.
Inspect Your Attic to Reduce Heating and Cooling Costs and Extend Roof Life
- Check the attic for proper ventilation.
- Look for obstructions over vents and damaged soffit panels.
- Ensure the attic is free of rodents and birds’ nests in the roof vents.
- Be sure to replace insulation at attic access.
Inspect Your Siding to Avoid Interior Water Damage and Extend the Life of Your Coverings
- Inspect siding, window sills and trim on the outside of your home for deterioration – especially signs of rot and loose or missing pieces.
- Check the caulking around windows and doors.
- If your siding is cement board, ensure that there are no signs of water damage.
Check for Other Signs of Damage
- Examine the siding under roof eaves.
- Inspect the ceilings in the rooms below the roof for water or discoloration, an indication that ice dams might have created leaks along the roof edge.
- Check all walls for water stains.
For your safety and comfort, wear long sleeves, gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from insulation or other debris you may encounter when you’re rooting around. Or, give us a call and let us give you a hand.
