Signs of Exterior Damage That Are Easy to Miss

Signs of Exterior Damage That Are Easy to Miss

Your roof, windows, and siding are supposed to protect your home from extreme temperatures, rain, snow, and pests. Severe weather, temperature fluctuations, and sunlight can cause damage that can be easy to overlook. Whether you’re buying a home or thinking of selling your current one, looking out for these things will help you in the long run. There are signs that your home’s exterior needs repairs. Here are the signs of exterior damage that are easy to miss.

Loose Shingles

Strong winds can loosen roofing shingles, creating entry points for water, cold air, and pests. Loose shingles might still be attached to the house, just slightly curled up at the edges. That can make it hard to spot an issue from the ground. Because of this, you may not notice a loose shingle until it creates a larger problem. A professional roofer can climb up onto the roof and perform a thorough inspection.

Gaps Around Windows or Doors

Small gaps around windows or doors can spell major trouble for your home. It doesn’t take much space for moisture, insects, or cold air to get in. If that happens, you can find yourself dealing with mold, rotten wood, termites, or high utility bills. While your energy usage will obviously vary based on the weather, you know what’s normal and reasonable for your family. If your bills have spiked and you don’t know why, it might be due to exterior damage. Check around all your windows and doors to look for light shining through or do simple tests to look for drafts. 

Damaged Siding

If your siding is damaged, it might not be obvious. Thin cracks and small holes can be virtually impossible to see from a distance. The sun’s UV rays and moisture can cause your siding to gradually change color. You might not notice discoloration unless you walk around the house and compare the color in different areas. Even small amounts of damage to your siding can create significant problems for your home. If your siding is covered with mold, that means your home has a serious moisture problem. Water may have already penetrated the supporting materials under the siding and damaged the insulation. Mold can be easy to miss if it’s on a section of the house that’s blocked by trees or bushes, or in an area where you typically don’t go. You might overlook mold unless you walk around the house and check for it.

Pests

If you commonly see insects near your house, they might be there because of gaps or cracks that they can use as entry points. If termites or carpenter ants get under your siding, they can cause major damage that can be hidden from view. Rodents can also create significant problems. Keeping your yard free of debris and food can help deter pests, as well as ensure your home has no entry points for them. 

Have Your Home Inspected

Seemingly minor problems on the outside of your house can have a major impact. Some damage can be easy to miss if you aren’t specifically looking for it. Make a habit of regularly inspecting your home’s exterior, especially after storms. You should also have a contractor perform routine inspections. A professional can identify issues in their early stages and spot signs of damage that you might miss.