With the first of many fall storms tapering off, now is the ideal time to do a home health check-up to ensure your home is prepared for the rain and snow winter will bring. So, what are the three key areas of your home to examine and what do you look for? Do you focus mainly on the outside or the inside of your home? We have you covered from roof to deck.

1. Roof

You’ve probably never thought about it, but your roof has to battle a lot of Mother Nature’s enemies: ultraviolet rays, rain, wind, snow, and ice. But the good news is most new shingle roofs are designed to last about 20 years. Slate roofs and some types of tile and metal roofs can last even longer. The actual life span of your roof is determined by several factors, including environmental conditions, material quality, proper application, and regular roof maintenance.

Warning Signs: How do you know when your roof is in trouble? Look for these warning signs.

Outside

  • Shingles that are warped, blistered, missing or torn
  • Shingles covered in moss or algae, which hold moisture and encourage rot
  • Loose material or wear around chimneys, pipes and other penetrations
  • Overhanging tree branches that could gouge the roof in a strong wind
  • Excessive debris (leaves, dirt, ice, roofing granules) in the gutters or downspouts, which block drainage

Inside

  • Ceiling spots or leaks
  • Cracked paint
  • Discolored plasterboard
  • Peeling wallpaper
  • Mold, mildew or rot in the walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems
  • In the attic, look for signs of water infiltration such as staining, dampness, or mold growing on insulation, sheathing and rafters. A poorly ventilated attic that shows signs of moisture promotes the roof’s decay. Sufficient attic ventilation can be achieved by installing larger or additional vents.

 

2. Windows & Doors

Beyond the roof, a home’s doors and windows can also become major leak zones. Even if the windows and doors are well shuttered in a storm, wind-driven rain can be blown into the house at these points, especially if they have not been properly flashed and weatherproofed.

Warning Signs: How do you know when your doors and windows are in trouble? The following are some signs of water damage.

Inside & Outside

  • Leaks or breaks in seams around window trim and sills
  • Uneven doorframes
  • Discolored plasterboard
  • Peeling wallpaper
  • Chipped or cracked stucco finishes
  • Mold, mildew, or rot in the walls, insulation, and electrical systems
  • Missing, cracked, or blistered paint inside the home

 

3. Deck

Last but not least, check the deck. If your deck is not protected against the extreme weather, it can deteriorate and become unsafe. Decks, fences and other wood products should be routinely weatherproofed and cleaned to maximize their useful life. Weather combined with the treatment chemicals used for today’s pressure treated lumber means that the modern deck must be proper constructed to hold up.

Warning Signs: How do you know when your deck is in trouble? Look for these warning signs.

  • Warped boards
  • Cracked or split boards
  • Debris that is “clogging up” space between deck boards
  • Look under the deck for corroded joist hangers and other connectors
  • Soft wood
  • Mold and mildew

By inspecting these three areas of your home and correcting any damage with the best materials, you will ensure your home will live longer and endure the winter ahead. And, your wallet will be happy too!

Looking to buy or sell in the Nevada County area? Give a Coldwell Banker agent a call today!