Evaluating Exterior Finishes
The following is a list of items we recommend all homeowners check routinely on the exterior of their homes.
- Evaluation of the house to ensure walls are visually plumb and level.
- Evaluation to ensure siding is properly attached to the structure.
- Inspection of areas where siding or masonry surfaces are missing.
- Evaluation of areas where there is moisture penetration potential due to splits, warping or separations.
- Evaluation of 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. Ensure weep holes are present and not below grade.
- Evaluation of masonry surfaces for diagnol cracks with material break through, instead of following the mortar joints. Observe potential differential movement, such as sheering or bowing.
- Evaluation of the window and door lentils to ensure sufficient bearing on the sides. They should not exhibit cracking caused by expanding steel.
- Evaluation for cracks or separations allowing water to 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, drafty conditions or broken glass.
- Evaluation of the windows for replacement or immediate repair.