Evaluating Your House: Exterior -- Plan View

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For more information, hover your mouse cursor over captions (or where they are pointing). Also, click the numbers for more info.

Fences and paths: Fences should be kept vertical, and wooden ones well preserved. Paths should be well maintained. Stucco: There should be no cracks or holes. Vegetative growth will encourage mildew, and should be treated before repainting. Stucco: There should be no cracks or holes. Vegetative growth will encourage mildew, and should be treated before repainting. Roof tiles: Slates or tiles should not be cracked, broken, or out of position. Any valleys should be clear of debris. Flat roofs: These need to be kept clear of debris and vegetation. Decking: This should be well treated with preservative, have no decay, and be free from algae. Paving: Joints should be well pointed, and water should run off away from the house and into drainage channels. Brick or blockwork: This should have sound pointing, with no holes or gaps in joints. Downspout: Pipes should have no leaks at joints, and water should flow easily into drainage systems. Downspout: Pipes should have no leaks at joints, and water should flow easily into drainage systems. Drains: Check for any signs of blockage and keep free of debris. Drains: Check for any signs of blockage and keep free of debris. Chimney: Pointing and flashing should be sound. Siding: Boards should be sound, with no flaking paint or varnish. Doors: These should have a protective or preservative finish. Vinyl should be kept clean.
Each numbered image corresponds to the main house exterior diagram above.
For more information on the numbered images below, hover your mouse cursor over them.
1. Gutters and downspouts should be free of corrosion and leaks, and water should run easily. Remove blockages immediately. 2. Gutter downspouts must be clear of any vegetation and leaves to ensure that water drains away efficiently. 3. Vents must be clear of obstruction. This should be included as part of your boiler service schedule. 4. Air bricks should be clear, with no vegetation or garden equipment blocking any holes. 5. Flashing on roofs must be properly installed to ensure that water cannot penetrate the roof.
6. Ridge tiles should all be in place, and their mortar must be in sound condition, with no cracks or holes. 7. Windows must have a protective coat of paint or finish; vinyl should be kept clean. 8. Trees close to the house may occasionally cause subsidence, and their leaves may block gutters. 9. Fascia board should be in sound condition and show no sign of decay. 10. Drives should be free of holes, craters, and standing water. Vegetation should be cleared from the surface.



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Updated: Monday, August 6, 2007 14:03 PST