After a long Winter get ready for Spring early. Exterior Maintenance Checklist:

(1) Clean Gutters and Downspouts making sure they are directing water away from the house, and haven't become loose from ice dams.
In downspouts clogging usually occurs at the elbow in a drainage system, where the downspout connects to the gutter. Since this elbow is relatively easy to remove, take it off and inspect for clogging.

(2) Check for possible damage to the roof. Look for missing, cracked or broken shingles and make note of any needed repair or replacement. If your home has an older roof, you may want to start a budget for replacement.

(3) Check flashing around vents, skylights and chimneys.

(4) Probe the wood trim around windows, doors, railings and decks. Repair or replace now before spring rains do more damage to exposed wood.

(5) Keep firewood away from exterior walls.

(6) Check you dryer vent is clear.

(7) Check for any Siding damage. An early repair could detour a larger costly project.

(8) Check caulking and weather striping around windows and doors. . Once you get inside the house and close the front door, see if any light is coming through between the edge of the door opening and the wall. This gap is an indicator that the door may need to be replaced since air can escape through it and cause higher energy bills.  If you have any condensation in between your double pained glass you probably have a seal failure that will lead to energy loss.

Seal Failure

Seal Failure

Entry Door

(9) Power/Soft-Wash your Siding & Windows.  Roof too if needed.