Spring in our community is the ultimate “reveal” season for your home. Before you head to the garden center or book a landscaper, there is one critical task that requires nothing more than a pair of sneakers and thirty minutes of your time.
At Hadley Exteriors, we believe the best way to care for our neighbors is to help you spot the small things before they become “the big things.” Here is your guide to the essential Spring Walkaround.
1. Look Up: The Roofline
Start by looking at your soffits and fascia (the trim underneath and facing out from your roof edge).
- The Check: Look for peeling paint, dark water spots, or small gaps.
- The Why: These are your home’s first line of defense against moisture and pests. If squirrels find a soft spot now, you’ll be dealing with more than just a repair by summer.
2. Look Along: Siding Lines
Stand at the corner of your home and look down the length of your siding.
- The Check: Are the lines straight, or is there a slight “wave” or bulging?
- The Why: Shifting siding often points to trapped moisture or settling. Catching a loose panel now prevents a high-wind storm from ripping it off later.
3. Look Below: Foundation Splashback
Check where your siding meets the ground.
- The Check: Look for “splashback” (dried mud patterns) or small cracks in the masonry.
- The Why: This is a red flag for water management. While it can mean your grading is shifting, it often points to overflowing gutters. Even if they look clear, they may be undersized or pitched incorrectly, dumping water against your foundation. Keeping water away from your base is the number one priority for stability.
4. Test the Seals: Windows and Doors
Finally, check the “envelope” of your home for energy leaks.
- The Check: Feel for drafts along the interior frames and check if exterior caulking is cracked or pulling away.
- The Why: Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles cause materials to contract, which can cause seals to fail. A quick refresh now saves significantly on summer cooling bills and prevents interior wood rot.
Hadley’s Pro-Tip: Check the Flashing
Ensure your window and door flashing (the metal at the top of the trim) is clear and unbent. This small detail sheds water away from the house. If it’s blocked or missing, water is likely being diverted behind your siding, where it can cause hidden damage.
Need a Second Pair of Eyes?
If you don’t have the tools or aren’t sure what to look for, Hadley Exteriors offers a Peace of Mind Inspection. We provide a comprehensive walkthrough, high-resolution photos of “red flag” areas, and a detailed report with transparent repair costs.
Our goal is to ensure your home remains a sanctuary. Call us today to schedule your inspection.
Hadley Exteriors | 250-667-4944 | info@hadleyexteriors.ca | hadleyexteriors.com
