Understanding what home inspectors examine helps sellers prepare and buyers know what questions to ask.
Exterior Renovation Services
Home inspectors examine exterior elements systematically. Understanding their evaluation criteria helps sellers identify and address issues before listing, and helps buyers understand inspection reports when purchasing.
Roofing is typically the first exterior element assessed. Inspectors look for missing, curling, or damaged shingles; granule loss (visible in eavestroughs); flashing condition at chimneys, valleys, and penetrations; and soffit/fascia condition from the ground.
Planning Your Project
Siding is evaluated for cracking, buckling, rot, gaps at joints, and moisture staining. The inspector looks for conditions that allow water to penetrate behind the siding into the wall assembly.
Windows and doors are checked for seal integrity (fogged IGUs), frame condition, operation, and weatherstripping. Failed window seals are among the most commonly noted deficiencies in home inspection reports.
Working With D&D Exterior Finishing
Grading and drainage are evaluated to determine whether the lot drains away from the building. Negative grade — ground sloping toward the foundation — is flagged as a water management concern.
Eavestroughs and downspouts are inspected for damage, proper slope, blockages, and adequate downspout extensions. Missing or damaged gutters that allow water to run down siding and collect at the foundation are commonly cited.
Inspectors note but don't always resolve what they observe. Understanding why a condition was flagged, not just that it was flagged, helps buyers and sellers make informed decisions about scope and priority of remediation.
Key Takeaways
- Home inspectors examine exterior elements systematically.
- Siding is evaluated for cracking, buckling, rot, gaps at joints, and moisture staining.
- Grading and drainage are evaluated to determine whether the lot drains away from the building.
- D&D Exterior Finishing serves Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and surrounding areas
- Get a free no-obligation quote — call or book online anytime
Sources & References
- Ontario Building Code — Relevant Standards & Guidelines
- D&D Exterior Finishing field experience across Waterloo Region
