In  the final chapter of our series on what items a new home buyer should look for once they decide to purchase their dream home,  we will focus on inspecting the home’s exterior.  Things like caulking, brickwork, grading, all help manage water penetration and mold issues.  Let’s just dive right in!

Grading

• The grounds should be graded with a gentle slope away from the house to direct rain and melted snow toward the municipal drainage system. The grading is approved by the municipality and cannot be altered by the homeowner. Questions with respect to grading should be directed to the municipality or your builder.
• Some lots require shallow runoff trenches (swales) to help collect and drain water. Ensure that they are even and of a uniform slope.

Sod

• For a variety of reasons, it is possible that sod may not be laid at the time you take occupancy of your new home. Time of year may be a factor, or local municipalities may delay this process to ensure certain subdivision requirements have been met. You should, however, make note of these items on your PDI Form. Once installed, you are required to maintain the sod.
• Ask the builder about proper care and maintenance.

Brickwork

• Make sure that vertical and horizontal mortar joints between the bricks are completely filled.
• Check that weep holes at the bottom of the brick and above windows and doors are unobstructed. Weep holes are designed to allow moisture to escape from the brick wall.

Exterior Trim

• Check that trim is securely fixed.

Caulking

• Make sure all windows and doors are caulked around their frames where the frame meets the walls of the house.

Roof Ventilation

• Make sure that there are sufficient air vents for adequate, unobstructed roof ventilation.