Welcome back. Let’s pick up where we left off, shall we?
Understanding the purpose and maintenance needs of each element of your home's exterior is essential for maintaining its beauty and functionality and helping to ensure that your home is in compliance with community standards.
As promised, here is a helpful diagram for our single-family homeowners.
It’s important to remember that an association inspection is not a structural inspection. Association managers are looking for aesthetic abnormalities - things that homeowners and residents may miss during their everyday busy routines. Associations managers are not engineers or general contractors- please be sure to contact a construction industry professional with any concerns you may have about your home.
Let’s start at the top and work our way down.
The roof really needs no introduction, we all know how crucial they are! Check for missing shingles- and remember that you need approval before changing the color.
Cupolas are primarily decorative but provide some ventilation and light -just keep it clean, and check for water intrusion/damage.
The chimney provides ventilation for fireplaces, and the cap prevents debris and animals from entering while allowing smoke to escape. Inspect for damage and clean as needed to maintain functionality.
Ridge vents are installed along the peak of the roof to allow hot air to escape from the attic, promoting ventilation and reducing energy costs. Ensure they are free of obstructions and damage to maintain proper airflow.
Dormers - In addition to breaking up the monotony of the roof line, dormers provide additional headroom or natural light to upper floors. Keep dormer windows clean and in good repair to maximize functionality and curb appeal.
Gable and gable vent-Aside from adding character, the gable provides structural support to the roof and aids in water drainage. It is crucial to maintain the gable's trim to prevent rot and ensure proper water drainage The gable vent allows hot air to escape from the attic. The cover on the gable vent can rust or become discolored– you will need to paint or replace it periodically.
Eaves are the edges of the roof that overhang the exterior walls, providing protection from the elements and adding architectural interest. Inspect for damage and ensure proper drainage to prevent water damage to the home's exterior.
Soffits keep the attic cool and dry while adding elegance to the exterior. Regularly clean to remove dirt and debris, and inspect for damage.
Rake/fascia boards deflect rain and snow. Ensure they are securely fastened and free of rot, and repaint or replace as needed to prevent water damage.
Vent pipes and collars are part of the home's plumbing system, allowing for proper ventilation and preventing gas buildup. Inspect for leaks and ensure collars are properly sealed to prevent water intrusion.
Downspouts and gutters channel rainwater away from the home, preventing water damage to the foundation and exterior walls. Regularly clean gutters and inspect for damage to ensure proper drainage.
A portico is a covered entrance supported by columns. Regularly inspect for damage and clean to maintain its appearance.
Transom and sidelights are the narrow windows around the front door. Keep them clean and ensure that they are properly sealed to prevent water intrusion.
Lintels provide structural support above windows and doors, distributing weight and preventing sagging. Inspect for damage and ensure proper installation to maintain structural integrity.
Dentil molding is a decorative architectural detail. Ensure it is securely attached and free of damage.
Bay window (or the nose art gallery at my house, thanks to my two cattle dogs) serves to let in natural light and add ventilation. The roof of the bay window will occasionally need paint, and you’ll want to make sure the window is sealed to prevent leaks.
Shutters add charm and personality. Keep them clean, and repaint them when faded or stained.
Siding protects the home from all things weather related. You’ll want to clean the siding to keep it free from moss and pollen, inspect for damage or rot, and promptly repair or replace damaged panels.
Inside and outside corner posts cover provide a finished look and ensure a seamless transition between different architectural elements by covering joints and gaps. You’ll want to regularly inspect corner posts for any signs of damage or deterioration, and repair or replace as needed to maintain integrity and visual appeal.
Hopefully, the information provided was more enlightening than daunting. It's crucial to grasp the significance and upkeep requirements of every aspect of your home's exterior to preserve its charm and utility.
We truly value your dedication and contribution to your community!
Join us next time as we delve into the exteriors of townhomes, pinpointing areas that might require additional care before your upcoming community inspection.
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