While your home’s exterior is not the sexiest of projects, it is a huge piece of keeping your home looking good and functioning well. It’s also a large component to ensuring the energy efficiency and keeping your home in good shape. Walk the perimeter of your house and check out the following:

Roof

While age is a factor in insurance roof coverage, the length of time since installation is a helpful gauge for planning for the expense of replacing your roof. Signs of an aging roof to watch out for are significant accumulation of granules in your gutters, mold and moss, and curling shingles. Also, a dip in your roof line could be a sign of a larger structural problem. Tree branches can be a source of roof damage during storms, so we always recommend trimming back any that are encroaching. Pay special attention if you’ve noted damaged flashing around chimneys, skylights, and venting which can offer water an easy entrance into your home, causing damage long before you’re aware of it.

Siding

Siding is your home’s first defense in protecting it from water damage, improving energy efficiency, and preserving its structural integrity. Take a walk around your home and evaluate the siding and make note of cracks and holes that need repair; while peeling or bulging paint can indicate water issues. If you have missing panels or gaps in siding it can lead to bug or rodent issues – yuck, along with increased energy bills. We also suggest trimming any foliage that’s grown too close to your home to decrease potential pest problems.

Windows

Most of us consider windows as the method for featuring your view while also letting in wonderful natural light. Windows are also a key component to how energy efficient your home is – good or bad. The average lifespan of windows is 15-30 years, depending on the materials used, and the climate lived in. Here in eastside neighborhoods like Kirkland and Bellevue, we find that most homeowners have vinyl windows lasting around 20 years before the telltale signs of moisture damage become apparent. Signs of window failure are windows that are hard to open or close, along with fogging between windowpanes. Chips and cracks in windows can become larger issues with changing temperatures, so we recommend you handle them expediently.

Hard Surfaces

The term hard surfaces are in reference to driveways, patios and decks. Cracks in the driveway or patio can develop over time due to ground settling in concrete surfaces, or after rain or snow followed by rapidly changing temperatures in the winter. Cracks or uneven surfaces can be tripping hazards for guests – and a liability for you. If the damage has changed the slope of your driveway and you’re noticing standing water, this can lead to water issues in your foundation and may require regrading. If your deck feels spongy or has “give” when walking on it, it’s time to bring in a professional to evaluate it as these symptoms can be signs of structural issues and rot.

No matter what, staying on top of exterior home maintenance, like gutter cleaning, is a good idea. Curb appeal is the most obvious, but most importantly, your home’s exterior is its first line of defense. Keep it looking good and operating well and reach out to your eastside remodeling partner if needed!