Winters in New England bring all the elements: snow, ice, rain, and wind. Contractors build the structure of the home to withstand all types of weather, selecting materials that do well in both heat and freezing temperatures.

Even with a strong foundation, weather can take a toll on your house without proper maintenance. Once the snow melts and the ground thaws, inspect your home’s exterior for any signs of damage. 

In early spring, check these five areas of your property: 

Siding

Walk around your home, inspecting the siding and exterior from the ground. If you notice damage to siding, holes, cracks, or wood rot, it’s important to address those issues right away. This is also a great time to power wash your siding, so your home looks nice and clean. 

Roofing 

Snow and ice can seep under shingles and refreeze, causing ice dams. Checking your roof doesn’t require climbing on a ladder. From the ground, you can use binoculars to check the roofing and shingles. If the shingles are missing or you notice spots that look damaged, call a professional for a more thorough inspection.

Gutters

With spring rains coming, you want to make sure your gutters are functioning properly. Clean gutters, making sure they are clear of any debris or ice. 

Foundation

Walk around the exterior of your home, paying attention to the foundation. If you find cracks or suspect areas, head to the interior and check if the problem can be seen from the inside as well. Repairs to the foundation of a home can be costly, so any issues should be addressed right away, before additional damage occurs. 

Landscaping

Finally, look at your landscaping and property. Dead branches and overgrown shrubbery should be taken care of as soon as possible, especially if they are near your house. You can also trim tree branches that are growing over your roof, as these can interfere with utility lines. 

Do you have questions about the exterior of your home?