The most common signs your home needs repairs show up on the outside first: stained or sagging siding, drafty windows, doors that stick, loose railings and gutters that overflow. Your home is probably your biggest financial investment, so it pays to keep track of its condition and fix small problems before they turn into large bills.
Exterior repairs can be expensive, but letting problems slide only allows them to get worse. Here is what to look for as you walk around your house.
Signs Your Home Needs Repairs on the Outside Walls
Siding
Siding protects the inside of your house from moisture and helps keep living spaces at a comfortable temperature. Old or damaged siding can let water into the walls, and that can lead to mold. It also makes the house harder to keep warm in winter and cool in summer, which shows up in your utility bills.
Look for stains, bubbling, mold, and pieces that are cracked or sagging. If you see any of these, have a siding contractor inspect it and tell you whether it can be repaired or needs to be replaced.
Windows
Damaged windows cause drafts and high heating and cooling bills. They can also let water into the house, which can lead to rot and mold around the frame. Warning signs include sashes that are hard to open or close, condensation between panes of glass, soft or peeling frames, and cold air you can feel on a windy day.
When windows reach that point, new vinyl replacement windows take care of these issues. If you are not familiar with them, our article on what vinyl replacement windows are explains how they work.
Doors, Steps and Railings
Entry doors take a lot of wear. A door that sticks, will not latch, shows daylight around the edges or has a soft, swollen bottom edge is no longer sealing or securing the house the way it should. Replacing worn entry doors and patio doors improves comfort, security and the look of the front of the house at the same time.
Check the railings on your steps, porch and deck too. A railing that wobbles, has rusted through or has pulled loose from the masonry is a safety problem, especially in a Connecticut winter when steps are icy. Sturdy aluminum or wrought iron railings give family and guests something solid to hold.
Gutters
Gutters divert rainwater and melted snow away from the house to prevent damage to the roof, siding and foundation. Gutters weighed down by debris may no longer be angled correctly, and they can start to come loose from the house.
Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year to remove leaves, pine needles, twigs and other debris that could clog them. If you do not want to clean them yourself, hire someone to do it. Gutter guards can reduce the need for routine cleaning, particularly on lots with many trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I inspect the outside of my house?
A walk around the house each spring and fall, plus a quick look after any major storm, catches most problems early.
Which exterior repairs should come first?
Start with anything that lets water in or puts people at risk. Leaking windows, damaged siding, overflowing gutters and loose railings should come before cosmetic work.
Should I repair or replace a drafty window?
Small air leaks can often be handled with caulk or weatherstripping. If the frame is rotted, the glass is fogged between the panes or the window no longer operates properly, replacement is usually the better long-term answer.
Have a Professional Look at What You Found
Keeping your home in good condition protects its value and keeps your family comfortable. If your walk-around turned up worn windows, doors or railings, Aladdin Inc in Wallingford can inspect them and explain your options. Call (203) 776-9996 or send us a message to schedule a visit.