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Assessing your house: exterior inspection repair guide
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Assessing Your House: Exterior Inspection

Walk around entire house perimeter, note overall condition and problem areas

Getting Started
Intermediate
180 minutes
2/2/2026

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Tools Needed

  • ladder
  • flashlight
  • binoculars
  • camera
  • measuring tape
  • moisture meter

Parts & Materials

Available from multiple retailers

AmazonUnavailable
Home DepotMore buying options coming soon
Lowe'sMore buying options coming soon

Available from multiple retailers

AmazonUnavailable
Home DepotMore buying options coming soon
Lowe'sMore buying options coming soon

Available from multiple retailers

AmazonUnavailable
Home DepotMore buying options coming soon
Lowe'sMore buying options coming soon

āš ļø Safety First

  • Use proper ladder safety - three-point contact rule
  • Never inspect roof during wet or windy conditions
  • Have helper spot ladder and assist with inspection

    • šŸ”§ Tools Needed

  • ladder
  • flashlight
  • binoculars
  • camera
  • measuring tape
  • moisture meter

    • šŸ“¦ Materials

  • inspection checklist
  • notebook
  • safety equipment

    • šŸ“‹ Step-by-Step Instructions

    1. Walk around entire house perimeter, note overall condition and problem areas


    2. Inspect foundation for cracks, settling, water damage, or pest entry points


    3. Check siding for damage, rot, loose sections, missing caulk, or paint issues


    4. Examine windows and doors for proper sealing, operation, and weather damage


    5. Inspect roof with binoculars - look for missing shingles, damaged flashing, clogged gutters


    6. Check exterior electrical outlets, fixtures, and service entrance for safety issues


    7. Assess drainage around house - grade should slope away from foundation


    8. Document problems with photos and notes, prioritize by safety and weather protection


    9. Create maintenance schedule based on findings and seasonal needs


    šŸ’” Pro Tips

  • Inspect twice yearly - spring after winter damage, fall before winter
  • Use binoculars for roof inspection instead of climbing when possible
  • Look for patterns - multiple issues often indicate systematic problems

    • āŒ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Ignoring small problems that become major repairs
  • Unsafe ladder practices during inspection
  • Focusing on cosmetics while missing structural issues

    • šŸ” Troubleshooting

    Foundation cracks

    *Cause:* Settlement or water damage

    *Fix:* Monitor for growth, seal minor cracks, consult engineer for major issues


    Siding damage

    *Cause:* Weather, age, or pest activity

    *Fix:* Replace damaged sections promptly, identify and fix underlying causes


    Poor drainage

    *Cause:* Incorrect grading or clogged gutters

    *Fix:* Regrade soil, clean gutters, install drainage solutions


    ā“ Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: How often should I inspect

    A: Twice yearly plus after major storms - early prevention saves major repair costs


    Q: What problems need immediate attention

    A: Water entry, electrical hazards, structural damage, and pest infestations


    āœ… Checklist

    ā˜Walk complete house perimeter
    ā˜Foundation inspection for cracks
    ā˜Siding condition and attachment
    ā˜Window and door sealing
    ā˜Roof and gutter inspection
    ā˜Exterior electrical safety check
    ā˜Drainage and grading assessment
    ā˜Photo documentation of issues
    ā˜Priority repair list creation

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