Spring Cleaning Checklist For Your Home Exterior

Spring is right around the corner and FTC Oury Group wants to remind you not to neglect your home’s exterior!

While we haven’t had a terribly harsh winter, it is always a good idea to perform a thorough inspection of the major components that protect your investment. Here are the six most important elements of a Spring cleaning checklist for your home’s exterior:

Roof

Start from the top and work your way down. Winter can take a toll on your roof. It is best to perform a close inspection to check for punctures and cracks in shingles. Curling and sliding shingles are visible from the ground but a closer look is required to determine if roof repairs or re-roofing are necessary.

While you’re up on the roof, make sure your chimney is intact, not growing vegetation (a sign of water infiltration) and efflorescence. Efflorescence is a white calcium-like build up that indicates your masonry joints are absorbing, not repelling, water.

An effective water drainage system is at the core of preventing leaks and moisture damage to your home. Gutters and downspouts must be clear of any obstructions to properly manage storm water and debris. In addition, downspout extensions and any water runoff must be directed away from the house.

Most vinyl siding is maintenance-free and may only require a wash. But hardwood siding can rot and fall apart. Be sure to pay close attention to areas not protected by soffits and those closest to the ground.

Open all windows and view from below to detect water damage or signs of rot. Wood windows will become soft when they are rotted, but aluminum clad windows can rot without any signs of damage from the outside.

Check for masonry cracks and evidence of water collection to prevent long-term damage to your home. This should be an annual or semi-annual part of your Spring cleaning checklist.

For more ways to maintain the integrity of your home’s exterior, contact FTC Oury Group today at (630) 866-6888.