What does an exterior home inspection include?
The exterior inspection covers siding and trim, windows and weather seals, the roof edge, flashing and chimney, gutters and downspouts, soffits and fascia, grading and drainage, plus walkways, driveways, decks, and porches. It is the home's first line of defense against Minnesota weather.
How does Minnesota weather damage a home's exterior?
Freeze-thaw cycles, ice, wind-driven rain, and hail all attack the exterior. Caulk fails, sealants crack, siding works loose, and water finds its way behind trim. We look for the weather-driven wear that lets moisture get behind the cladding and into the wall.
Do you inspect the deck and porch?
Yes. Decks, porches, railings, and stairs are inspected for proper ledger attachment, rot, loose connections, railing height, and trip hazards. Older Hutchinson decks often have undersized or improperly fastened ledgers, which is a serious safety concern.
Why does grading matter on the exterior?
Grading controls where water goes. Soil that slopes toward the house, along with short or clogged downspouts, sends snowmelt and rain straight at the foundation. Correct grading and drainage are among the cheapest, most important defenses against a wet basement.
Can you tell how old the windows or siding are?
We can usually estimate condition and remaining service life. We check window seals for failed glazing and fogged panes, and we look at siding for cracks, loose sections, failed caulk, and moisture entry points so you know what maintenance or replacement may be ahead.
