Building Exterior

The exterior of your home is slowly deteriorating and aging. Walk around the house to check the exterior of the foundation and structural supports. Exterior walls above the foundation may be covered with a variety of materials, including wood siding, aluminum, vinyl, stucco, brick and stone masonry.

Controlling the intrusion of water and the movement of water vapor, air and heat through the building envelope by proper design and construction of wall assemblies are major goals.

Nearly all walls leak. Builders should assume some rainwater will get through the outer surface of the wall and plan for it by including a drainage gap and a drainage plane to stop this water and direct it down and out of the building assembly. The drainage plane layer can be house wrap, building paper or taped insulated sheathing.

Check the distance between the bottom of wood elements and grade. In locations with significant lasting snow, the bottom of the wood element should be no less than 20 centimeters above the average snow depth.

Aluminum and vinyl siding: This siding is low maintenance. Check for loose, bent, cracked or broken pieces. Seasonally inspect all caulked joints, particularly around window and door trim.

Stucco: Check stucco for cracks, crumbling sections and areas for potential water intrusion. Old cracks may be caused by material initial shrinkage . New, sharp cracks may be caused by movement behind the wall and should be inspected by qualified professional.

Brick or stone veneers: Inspect for cracking, mortar deterioration and spalling.

Insulation: Exterior walls of older homes may contain little or no thermal insulation. Examine behind the siding (when possible) to determine the presence of insulation.

Moisture: Check for signs of moisture problems. Where mildew and mold are evident on exterior cladding or where interior walls are damp.