External Home Maintenance

Homeowner: Hello. I need some help with home maintenance.
Contractor: Sure. What kind of work do you need?

Homeowner: My fence is broken, and the gutters need cleaning.
Contractor: Okay. We can repair the fence and clean the gutters. Do you need any painting or lawn care?

Homeowner: Yes, I also want the front porch painted.
Contractor: No problem. I can give you an estimate.

Homeowner: How much will it cost?
Contractor: The total will be about $450.

Homeowner: That’s fine. When can you start?
Contractor: We can come on Saturday morning.

Homeowner: Perfect. Thank you very much.
Contractor: You’re welcome. We’ll see you on Saturday.

External home maintenance is crucial for preserving the integrity and appearance of your property. Here’s a comprehensive list of tasks to keep up with:

Roof and Gutters

Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts – Remove debris to prevent clogging and water damage.
Check roof for damage – Look for missing or damaged shingles, tiles, or signs of leaks.
Inspect flashing and seals – Ensure that all flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents is intact and properly sealed.

Siding and Exterior Walls

Inspect siding for damage – Look for cracks, holes, or loose panels.
Clean exterior walls – Wash siding to remove dirt, mildew, and grime.
Paint or seal – Repaint or reseal siding as needed to protect it from the elements.

Windows and Doors

Check for air leaks – Inspect windows and doors for drafts and reseal or replace weather stripping as needed.
Clean windows – Wash both interior and exterior sides of windows.
Inspect and maintain door hardware – Ensure hinges, locks, and handles are working properly.

Landscaping and Grounds

Trim trees and bushes – Keep vegetation away from the home to prevent damage and maintain appearance.
Maintain lawn and garden – Mow the lawn, edge garden beds, and address any overgrown areas.
Inspect and repair irrigation systems – Ensure sprinklers and irrigation systems are functioning correctly.

Driveways and Walkways

Inspect for cracks and damage – Repair any cracks in driveways and walkways to prevent further deterioration.
Clean and seal surfaces – Power wash and seal driveways and walkways to extend their lifespan.

Exterior Lighting

Check outdoor lights – Replace burnt-out bulbs and ensure all fixtures are working properly.
Inspect and clean light fixtures – Remove dirt and debris from light fixtures to maintain brightness.

Foundation and Drainage

Inspect foundation for cracks – Look for signs of foundation problems and address any issues promptly.
Ensure proper drainage – Check that water is draining away from the foundation to prevent water damage.

Decks and Patios

Inspect for damage – Check decks and patios for signs of wear, rot, or structural issues.
Clean and seal surfaces – Power wash and seal wood decks or patios to protect them from weathering.

Chimney and Fireplace

Inspect chimney – Check for any damage or blockages and have it cleaned if necessary.
Maintain fireplace – Ensure the fireplace is in good working condition and has been cleaned if used frequently.

HVAC Systems

Inspect and clean exterior HVAC units – Remove debris and check for any damage or issues.
Replace air filters – Regularly change filters to ensure efficient operation.

Regularly performing these maintenance tasks can help prevent costly repairs and keep your home in good condition.

Contractor

When hiring contractors for external work on your home, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure the job is done properly and to your satisfaction. Here are some important questions to consider:

What is your experience with this type of work?
Confirm that the contractor has experience with the specific type of project you’re hiring them for.
Can you provide references or examples of previous work?
Ask for references from past clients or examples of similar projects they’ve completed.
What is the estimated cost of the project?
Get a detailed written estimate that includes labor, materials, and any other potential costs.
What is the payment schedule?
Understand the payment terms, including any deposits required and when payments are due.
How long will the project take?
Ask for a timeline of the project, including start and completion dates.
What is the warranty or guarantee on the work?
Find out if there’s a warranty on the workmanship and materials, and what it covers.
Do you have the necessary licenses and insurance?
Verify that the contractor has the appropriate licenses and insurance to perform the work.
What permits are required, and will you handle them?
Determine if any permits are needed for the work and whether the contractor will manage the permitting process.
What is the process for addressing issues or changes?
Understand how the contractor handles unforeseen issues or changes to the project scope.
Who will be working on the project?
Confirm who will be on-site and if the same crew will be working on your project throughout.
How will you protect my property during the project?
Ask about measures the contractor will take to protect your property and minimize disruption.
What is your policy on cleanup and debris removal?
Ensure that the contractor will clean up and remove any debris once the job is complete.
What should I do if I have concerns or questions during the project?
Find out how to communicate with the contractor if you have any issues or questions while the work is ongoing.
Can I see a written contract?
Make sure to get a detailed written contract that outlines the scope of work, costs, timeline, and any other agreed-upon terms.

These questions will help you choose a reliable contractor and ensure that the work is completed to your satisfaction.