Spring is the perfect time to do exterior home repair and improvement projects.
As we head into spring, many homeowners look forward to heading outside and using their backyard. Before pulling the BBQ out of storage, take some time to inspect your home for damages that the severe winter weather may have caused. Here is a quick check list of what to look for:
Patios, Decking and Porches
First, do a thorough inspection of your deck or porch to ensure it is structurally sound. Gently test the railings and check for loose nails or screws. Inspect all wood for mold, wood rot and termite tunnels, paying particular attention to joints and where the deck attaches to your home. Look under the deck to confirm that beams and support poles are still in good condition. If you see any wood discoloration, it helps to test the area by pushing a screw driver into the wood to determine if it is still solid. If you find any soft wood or dampness, you probably have a problem and should call a licensed, professional contractor to access the damage. Never attempt to replace or repair rot damaged wood without first determining the source of the problem and correcting it. Failure to identify and correct the source will only lead to future problems down the road.
Windows, Doors & Siding
Systematically walk down every side of your home’s exterior, checking for wood rot and damage. Inspect the caulking around all doors and windows (caulking is a thin, waterproof filler used to seal joints in your home, preventing water or moisture to leak into the structure) to make sure it is still intact and sealing the space between the door / window and siding. Inspect your roof overhang (eaves), siding and brick work to make sure there aren’t any cracks or chipped paint where moisture can get in and cause rot. If you find any spots that are failing, soft or discolored wood, it is important to do small repairs immediately to prevent further damage.
Roofing and Roof Repairs
Use binoculars to scan the roof for missing or damaged shingles, paying particular attention around vents, chimney and the ridge cap. If the damage is extensive and it is time to put on a new roof, Carter Construction recommends installing one of the many new composite roofing products on the market today. They come in a variety of colors and have the look and feel of wood shingles, without the expense. Composite roof shingles are known for their durability (typically 20 – 50 year warranties) and do not warp, crack or split. They are partly manufactured from recycled materials and with special additives to resist algae or moss growth and UV degradation.
Gutters & Downspouts
Winter snow, wind and heavy rains can cause gutter damage. Check to make sure that they are still securely attached to your home and remove any debris that is clogging the downspouts. If the gutters are damaged or have pulled away, there could be water wicking into your eaves, causing rot. Call a professional contractor to inspect for water damage before attempting to repair this yourself.