Home Exterior Tips? (7 Avoid Install Fails!)
We are going to talk about how selecting the right materials, design, and installation techniques can lead to a beautiful and functional exterior. One that requires minimal upkeep.
Trust me, investing time and resources upfront to prevent future headaches and costs associated with improper installations is worth it. So, let’s dive into how to make your home’s exterior a dream, not a disaster!
Understanding the Basics of Home Exteriors
Okay, so what exactly are we talking about when we say “home exterior”? Well, it’s everything that makes up the outside of your house:
- Siding (vinyl, wood, fiber cement, etc.)
- Roofing (shingles, metal, tile, etc.)
- Windows
- Doors
- Decks
- Landscaping
Think of it as your home’s first impression. It’s what people see when they drive by, and it plays a HUGE role in your home’s value – we call that curb appeal.
Curb Appeal: More Than Just Looks
Curb appeal isn’t just about aesthetics; it seriously impacts your property value. A well-maintained exterior screams “this home is loved and cared for,” which translates to $$$ when you decide to sell.
Think about it: would you rather buy a house with peeling paint and a sagging porch, or one that looks fresh and inviting? I know which one I’d pick!
Longevity and Durability: The Keys to Low Maintenance
Now, let’s talk about longevity and durability. These are your best friends when it comes to minimizing maintenance. Choosing high-quality, long-lasting materials means you’ll spend less time and money on repairs and replacements down the road.
It’s like buying a good pair of boots versus a cheap pair – the good ones might cost more initially, but they’ll last for years and save you money in the long run.
Common Install Fails to Avoid
Alright, let’s get to the meat of the matter. Over the years, I’ve seen homeowners make the same mistakes over and over again. So, I’m going to share seven critical installation failures you absolutely need to avoid when upgrading or maintaining your home’s exterior.
Trust me, learning from these mistakes can save you a ton of time, money, and frustration.
Fail #1: Ignoring Proper Drainage
Water is your home’s worst enemy! Seriously, improper drainage can lead to a whole host of problems, from water damage to foundation issues. I’ve seen basements flood, siding rot, and even foundations crack because of poor drainage.
Common Drainage Mistakes:
- Improper Grading: The ground around your house should slope AWAY from the foundation. If it slopes TOWARDS it, water will pool and seep into your basement.
- Blocked Gutters: Clogged gutters can’t effectively channel water away from your house. This can lead to water overflowing and damaging your siding and foundation.
- Poorly Placed Downspouts: Downspouts should direct water away from your foundation, not right next to it. I recommend extending downspouts at least 4-6 feet away from the house.
Planning Drainage Solutions:
During exterior renovations, take the time to assess your property’s drainage. Here’s what I recommend:
- Check the Grading: Make sure the ground slopes away from your foundation.
- Clean Your Gutters Regularly: At least twice a year, or more often if you have a lot of trees nearby.
- Consider Installing French Drains: These underground drainage systems can help redirect water away from your foundation.
- Use Downspout Extensions: To channel water further away from your house.
Fail #2: Skimping on Quality Materials
I get it; everyone wants to save money. But when it comes to your home’s exterior, skimping on quality materials is a HUGE mistake. It’s like building a house of cards – it might look okay at first, but it won’t stand the test of time.
Common Mistakes:
- Low-Quality Siding: Cheap vinyl siding can crack, fade, and warp easily. This not only looks bad but also leaves your home vulnerable to water damage.
- Cheap Roofing: Inferior shingles can wear out quickly, leading to leaks and costly repairs.
- Poor Insulation: Insufficient insulation can lead to higher energy bills and make your home uncomfortable.
Long-Term Costs:
While cheap materials might save you money upfront, they’ll cost you more in the long run. You’ll have to replace them sooner, and you’ll likely face more repairs along the way. Investing in durable options like fiber cement siding, architectural shingles, and high-quality insulation will save you money and headaches in the long run.
As per the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), high-quality siding can last 50+ years, while cheaper options might only last 10-15 years.
Fail #3: Overlooking Local Climate Conditions
Your local climate plays a HUGE role in what exterior materials you should choose. What works in Arizona won’t necessarily work in Maine, and vice versa.
I once worked on a house in Florida where the homeowner had installed wood siding. Within a few years, the siding was rotting due to the high humidity and frequent rain. It was a costly mistake that could have been avoided by choosing a more weather-resistant material like fiber cement or vinyl.
Examples of Climate-Related Failures:
- Humidity: High humidity can cause wood to rot and metal to corrode.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Extreme temperature changes can cause materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks and leaks.
- Saltwater Exposure: Homes near the coast need materials that can withstand saltwater corrosion.
Researching Suitable Materials:
Before you start any exterior project, do your research! Talk to local contractors, visit your local building supply store, and read online reviews. Look for materials that are specifically designed to withstand your local climate.
For example, in coastal areas, I often recommend using stainless steel fasteners and marine-grade paints to prevent corrosion.
Fail #4: Neglecting Professional Help
I’m all for DIY projects, but some things are best left to the professionals. Exterior installations are one of them. Unless you have extensive experience and knowledge of building codes, you’re better off hiring a qualified contractor.
Risks of DIY Projects:
- Lack of Experience: Exterior installations require specialized skills and knowledge. Without them, you’re likely to make mistakes that can be costly to fix.
- Building Codes: Building codes are in place to ensure safety and quality. Ignoring them can lead to fines and even require you to redo the work.
- Warranty Issues: Many manufacturers require professional installation for their warranties to be valid.
Vetting Contractors:
When hiring a contractor, do your homework! Here are some tips:
- Get Multiple Bids: Don’t just go with the first contractor you find. Get at least three bids to compare prices and services.
- Check References: Ask for references from previous clients and follow up with them.
- Verify Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured.
- Read Reviews: Check online reviews to see what other people are saying about the contractor.
- Get a Written Contract: Make sure the contract clearly outlines the scope of work, materials, and payment schedule.
Fail #5: Improperly Installed Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are more than just openings in your walls; they’re crucial for energy efficiency, security, and weather protection. Improperly installed windows and doors can lead to air leaks, water intrusion, and energy loss.
Common Installation Errors:
- Poor Sealing: Gaps around windows and doors allow air and water to leak in.
- Missing Flashing: Flashing is a waterproof material that directs water away from windows and doors. Without it, water can seep into your walls and cause damage.
- Misalignment: Windows and doors that aren’t properly aligned can be difficult to open and close, and they can also leak air and water.
Verifying Correct Installation:
After your windows and doors are installed, take the time to inspect the work. Here’s what to look for:
- Check for Gaps: Run your hand around the edges of the windows and doors to feel for any air leaks.
- Inspect the Flashing: Make sure the flashing is properly installed and covers all vulnerable areas.
- Test the Operation: Open and close the windows and doors to make sure they operate smoothly.
- Look for Water Stains: Check for water stains around the windows and doors, which could indicate a leak.
Fail #6: Forgetting About Maintenance Access
When designing your home’s exterior, it’s easy to get caught up in aesthetics and forget about practical considerations like maintenance access. But trust me, neglecting maintenance access can lead to long-term issues.
I once worked on a house where the homeowner had installed a beautiful deck, but they hadn’t left any access to the underside of the deck. When the deck started to rot, it was incredibly difficult to repair because we couldn’t easily get to the damaged areas.
Planning for Future Maintenance:
- Leave Access Points: When building decks or installing siding, leave access points for cleaning and repairs.
- Consider Landscaping: Avoid planting trees or shrubs too close to your house, as they can block access to siding and gutters.
- Install Gutters with Leaf Guards: Leaf guards can prevent clogs and reduce the need for frequent gutter cleaning.
Fail #7: Ignoring Aesthetic Integration
Your home’s exterior should be cohesive and visually appealing. Ignoring aesthetic integration can detract from the overall appearance and value of your home.
I’ve seen houses where the siding, roofing, and trim were all different colors and styles, creating a jarring and unattractive look. It’s like wearing a mismatched outfit – it just doesn’t look right.
Achieving a Harmonious Exterior Design:
- Choose Complementary Colors: Select colors that complement each other and your home’s architectural style.
- Use Consistent Materials: Stick to a consistent style of siding, roofing, and trim.
- Consider the Overall Style: Make sure your exterior design complements the overall style of your home.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – seven common install fails to avoid when upgrading or maintaining your home’s exterior. Remember, careful planning, quality materials, and professional help are key to success.
By making the right choices, you can not only enhance your home’s appearance but also ensure ease of maintenance and longevity. Don’t let these common mistakes turn your dream home into a maintenance nightmare. Take proactive steps in your home exterior projects to avoid costly mistakes and enjoy a beautiful, functional exterior for years to come!
Good luck with your next project, and remember, a little planning goes a long way!
