Evaluating Exterior Finishes
- Evaluation of the house to ensure that the walls are visually plumb and level.
- Evaluation to ensure that the siding is properly attached to the structure.
- Inspection for any areas on the exterior where the siding or masonry surfaces are missing.
- Evaluation of the structure where moisture might penetrate the building envelope due to splits, warping or separations.
- Evaluation of the exterior painted surfaces for signs of mold, peeling or cracking.
- Evaluation of the exterior masonry systems and mortar joints to ensure that they are in good condition, that weep holes are present and not below grade.
- Evaluation of the exterior masonry surfaces for cracks that are diagonal and break through the material instead of following the mortar joints, exhibit differential movement, such as sheer or bowing.
- Evaluation of the window and door lentils to ensure they have sufficient bearing on the sides, and do not exhibit cracking caused by expanding steel.
- Evaluation of the exterior surfaces for visible cracks and movement.
- Evaluation of the exterior surfaces for cracks or separations that in which water could penetrate and enter the wood substrate.
- Evaluation of all exterior surfaces for off-color patches, suggesting moisture penetration.
- Evaluation of all the doors and windows for operation. Do the doors and windows open, close and lock satisfactorily?
- Evaluation of all exterior window and door areas for weatherstripping.
- Evaluation of all windows for loose fitting or drafty conditions or broken glass.
- Evaluation of the windows for needed replacement or immediate repair.