Preventive Maintenance

I have answered hundreds of calls throughout the years from homeowners in regards to water damage and rotted wood areas in and outside their homes. and the problem 9 out of 10 times is a maintenance issue that went neglected for a long period of time creating what could have been an inexpensive fix, into and expensive larger project.

The following situations are examples of these problems:

Paint Failure

Exterior trim boards, corner boards, Fascia and soffits, siding and painted wood windows need yearly inspections to inspect for cracks in the paint and also cracks in caulking which allow water to seep in behind the paint and penetrate the wood and plywood it was designed to protect . resulting in rotted wood and water pockets which find ways to seep into the interior walls of your home creating damage that may take years to discover.

Gutter and leader problems

Inspections of home with water damage and seepage in basements is usually the result of Hydrostatic pressure (water pressing against the foundation) This can result from many situations. The most common I find is from grading issues and gutter and leader issues, Inspection of your gutters and leaders should be done annually, cleaning and downspout inspection for holes or leaks at seams should be the focus and every few years have your landscaper re-grade the soil in areas against the foundation walls to ensure that water flows away from the house.

Mildew

Mildew on painted surfaces again can result in rotted wood, There are mildew resistant paints and additives used these days and that helps but some times in a heavily wooded and shaded areas the moisture doesn't dry and sits for periods of time and should be power-washed lightly or wiped off whenever the green film is noticeable.