Now that you’ve decided to purchase a home, it is time to hire a home inspector. When the home inspection begins, one of the areas that will be inspected is the exterior. During the exterior portion of the inspection, the home inspector will inspect seven different parts of the exterior.
1. Trim and Eaves - The home inspector will examine the trim work and eaves for wood rot and other damage. This is typically done with a ladder or with a set of binoculars. The inspector will also evaluate the gutters, if installed, to determine any defects.
2. Exterior Siding Material - The home inspector will analyze the exterior siding of the home and report on any defects in the wall covering. The home inspector will also provide the kind of material on the exterior walls. Commonly used materials are brick, vinyl, wood shake, and stucco.
3. Paint and Caulking - The home inspector will document the condition of any painted surfaces and the caulking surrounding all exterior windows and doors. Painted surfaces generally include railings, siding, windows and door frames, and eaves.
4. Windows and Doors - During the home inspection, the home inspector will report on the overall condition and any defects present, such as broken glass, in the home inspection report.
5. Screens and Storm Doors - The home inspector will document any missing or torn screens. If the home has exterior storm doors installed, the home inspector will document any defects to the storm doors.
6. Porches, Patios, Decks and Balconies - All porches, decks, patios, and balconies installed on the home will be analyzed and any defects like loose steps and railings, wood to soil contact, rusted hardware, etc. Defects will be included in the home inspection report.
7. Additions - It is not uncommon for older homes to have additions to them. The home inspector will review the location where the addition meets the main house for defects and structural problems. If problems are found, the home inspection will make a comment in the inspection report.
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