At McCall Construction, we want to help you keep your home in great condition. As summer approaches, we suggest scheduling your external home maintenance in June. This is the best time of year for a few important reasons:
- Nice Weather: June usually brings mild and dry weather, allowing repairs to be completed smoothly without rain delays.
- Prepare for Summer: Fixing up your home in June gets your garden, patio, and deck ready for summer activities.
- Better for Repairs: The dry conditions in June help repairs like painting or sealing set properly and last longer.
- Get Ready for Summer Storms: Completing maintenance in June can protect your home from potential storm damage later in the season.
- Take Care of the Garden: Pruning trees and bushes in June helps prevent branches from falling on your home during summer storms.
- Keep Pests Out: Fixing siding and windows in June help keep bugs and other pests from entering your home during their active summer months.
- Save on Energy: Making sure your home is in good shape in June can help keep it cool in summer, saving you money on energy bills.
What to Look for During Your Home Inspection
You don’t have to be an expert—simply follow this guide and let our team at McCall Construction know if you notice any of these issues. We’ll be happy to inspect and advise you.
Roof:
Check your roof once a year, especially after big storms.
- From the ground, use binoculars to look for:
- Missing or damaged shingles (look for unevenness).
- Leaks (check for water stains inside your home).
- Moss or algae (green or black streaks or patches).
- Damaged flashing (around chimneys, vents, and roof edges).
Siding:
Inspect your siding once a year.
- Walk around your home and check for:
- Cracks in the siding.
- Holes, big or small.
- Peeling, chipping, or bubbling paint.
- Pay special attention to the lower parts of your siding.
Windows and Doors:
Check windows and doors once a year.
- Stand close to each window and door to check for:
- Cracks in the glass.
- Damage to the frames (rot, warping, peeling paint).
- Gaps or worn seals around the glass.
- Test opening and closing the windows and doors.
- Listen for whistling sounds that may indicate drafts.
Gutters and Downspouts:
Check gutters and downspouts twice a year in spring and fall.
- Walk around your home and look at your gutters and downspouts:
- Check for clogs (leaves, twigs, or dirt).
- Watch for leaks (water dripping while it rains).
- Look for sagging (gutters or downspouts not hanging straight).
- Make sure the joints are secure (no leaks).
Foundation:
Inspect your foundation once a year.
- Walk around the outside of your home and look for:
- Cracks in the foundation.
- Areas where the foundation appears uneven or shifted.
- Water pooling near the foundation after it rains.
- Check inside your basement or crawl space for:
- Cracks in walls or floors.
- Dampness, water stains, or mould.
- Sticking doors and windows.
Chimneys:
Check your chimney once a year.
- From the ground, stand a safe distance away to check:
- Cracks in the bricks or mortar.
- Loose, uneven, or missing bricks.
- Damage to the chimney cap (crown).
- Anything blocking the top of the chimney (nests, leaves, debris).
Decks and Patios:
Inspect your deck or patio once a year.
- Walk across the surface and check for:
- Rot (dark spots, soft or spongy areas).
- Loose railings (wobbly or unstable).
- Damage to support posts (especially at the base).
- Cracks in wooden surfaces or concrete patios.
- Water damage (pooling water after rain).
- Rusted or loose fasteners (screws, nails, bolts).
Following these tips can help you spot potential issues early, allowing you to address them before they become bigger problems. If you need assistance, contact McCall Construction. We’ll make sure your home is ready to enjoy the summer safely!