Exterior Maintenance Tips for Fall

With winter just around the corner, it is essential for homeowners to prepare the outer structure of their homes against the imminent realities of Wisconsin weather. J&B Construction Company, Inc., serving southeastern Wisconsin since 1958 as a provider of high-quality exterior home improvement products and services, shares its exterior maintenance tips for the fall.

One of the key areas to inspect before temperatures turn cool is the roof because it is the first defense in protecting a home. “It’s important to scrutinize your roof from top to bottom, using binoculars if necessary,” said Scott Cline, owner of J&B Construction. Indicators to note include wind damage, cracks in ridge shingles, and damage to metal flashing in valleys and around vents and chimneys. Also, be sure to determine if there are any missing, curled or damaged shingles. “Finally, look in your gutters for large accumulations of granules, because this is a sign that your roof is losing its coating. Rain, wind, snow, ice, and rapidly changing temperatures and humidity can wreak havoc on roofs,” Cline said. “It’s better to proactively address repairs in the fall, than discover a leaky roof during a snowstorm.”

While evaluating the roof, look at the gutters and downspouts to ensure this system is flowing smoothly. “Every year, your roof’s drainage system diverts thousands of gallons of water from your house’s exterior and foundation walls. Therefore, cleaning and maintenance is a vital task, especially after the leaves have fallen,” Cline said. If left unkempt, water can reroute straight into your basement. In addition, clogged gutters are one of the primary causes of ice dams. “Damaged gutters should be replaced immediately. Gutters with built-in leaf guards are an ideal option, as they require little maintenance,” he said.

Another area of inspection includes the walls of your home. Look for any paint that is peeling or blistering on the house. “Peeling paint is a sign that the existing paint film is failing and can no longer protect the siding of the building. Left uncorrected, the siding itself will deteriorate, leading to expensive repairs in the future,” said Cline.

Homeowners will also need to examine their windows and doors. To be thorough, it’s also wise to scan entry points for electrical, cable, phone, gas, and so on. “If not properly sealed, heat won’t be the only amenity escaping from your home, as your dollars for energy usage will too,” Cline said. Gaps in caulk and weather-stripping can account for 10% of your heating bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Openings in the structure can also cause water to get in and freeze, resulting in cracks and mold buildup. “Caulking and weather stripping can be used as a sealant in some cases, but if you’re windows and doors are 15 years old or older, it’s time to consider replacing them with ones that are more energy efficient,” he said.

Those who have decks will want to clean and store any outdoor furniture and look for needed repairs. Loose railings and improper attachment of the deck to the house are serious concerns. To help avoid future repairs, keep your deck clear of leaves and debris and give it a routine cleaning. This will help keep moisture from becoming trapped in areas and keep the deck in overall good condition. “If you don’t keep the deck clean, people walking around on the deck are going to grind particles – dust and dirt, seed pods, pieces of leaves and sticks – into the finish, which can ultimately attack the wood. By keeping it clean, you’ll get the most wear out of the finish and appearance of your deck,” said Cline.

J&B Construction offers exterior remodeling products and services with a focus on trust, craftsmanship, superior customer service, and care for the home. The company’s Germantown showroom, W140 N10589 Fond du Lac Ave., contains a variety of exterior home improvement product samples, including windows, siding, doors, roofing, and decking materials. As Master Elite GAF roofing contractors, J&B Construction offers the added security of a 12-year warranty, plus manufacturer warranties that range from 25 years to lifetime, depending on the product.

J&B Construction is a member of Milwaukee NARI and the Better Business Bureau. For more information or to arrange a complimentary consultation, call J&B Construction at 262-437-0537 or visit www.jandbconstruction.com.