Summer is one of the best times of the year to assess and perform necessary repairs and upgrades in preparing your home for market. The weather is ideal for inspecting the exterior of your home to make sure everything is in proper working order.
As you make your assessments, we recommend starting with items that could lead to expensive repairs if not addressed immediately, then inspecting items of a less time-sensitive nature. Here are some suggestions for items that deserve a first look as you begin the process of assessing your home for repairs.
Have Stucco?
Although it’s not as commonly found these days in Middle Tennessee, if you have stucco, we recommend starting here. Once a hole is made in stucco, most frequently through damage caused by birds, water often gets inside the wall behind the stucco. You may be able to patch minor holes yourself, however, for larger holes, a professional handyman should be consulted.
Brick Work, Masonry and Concrete Slabs
Inspect all brick work and masonry for any cracks, missing, or damaged mortar joints. Clean out any loose material and dirt in mortar joints. Next, mix a small amount of mortar and water to work into the crack. Cement is highly alkaline, so always be sure to wear rubber gloves in order to avoid burning skin. For smaller cracks, the job can generally be completed with a tube of mortar repair caulking. Also be sure to inspect the driveway, sidewalks, and other paved paths for open joints, cracks, and surfaces that have shifted and need to be addressed to avoid a trip and fall hazard. If you are facing a slab that has dropped, it is sometimes possible to mudjack it rather than replace. Always finish with a fresh application of concrete crack sealant to safeguard against water.
Fencing and Gates
Fences and gates must be inspected for proper operation. Tighten all loose screws or bolts and adjust latches for smooth operation. Sagging gate? You may be able to correct it by installing a cable and turn-buckle at the top hinge side corner of the gate to the opposite bottom corner.
Trees and Shrubs
It’s important to assess trees and shrubs for their ability to potentially damage roof or walls. If they are touching or approaching the building, they should be immediately removed to prevent damage. A pole saw is especially helpful for this as it allows you to trim limbs from the ground. Use extreme care when trimming trees and call a professional for large limbs or trees, especially those over roofs. Never trim limbs around power lines; always call a professional.
Irrigation System
It’s important to inspect your sprinkler system for damage. The most common damage occurs when the system is not drained in the fall and the backflow preventer freezes. The backflow preventer is typically installed where the sprinkler system water line leaves the house. Be sure to check that all heads are intact and operate properly as well.
Windows, Window Wells and Emergency Exits
Carefully inspect all window well covers and escape ladders. Can the window well covers hold the weight of an adult? Do all quick releases work properly? Are escape ladders secured to the window well and easily climbable?
For more suggestions, give us a call at Contemporary Home Inspections. We are always happy to share our expertise with clients. As your Middle Tennessee Home Inspection experts, we love being able to give you the kind of guidance that helps you save and make money! Contact Contemporary Home Inspections today at (615) 541-8992 for more information.
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