CMC Building Exterior

Foundation walls in small residential single and multi-family homes are typically either masonry or poured concrete. They should be evaluated for cracking, detrioration,
moisture penetration, and structural adequacy.

Exterior walls above the foundation may be covered with a variety of surfacing materials, ranging from natural products like wood and stone to synthetic products such as fiberglass or vinyl. All materials are evaluated for composition, proper installation and present condition and are also checked for insect infestation and moisture loading

Exterior doors should be examined for their condition, overall operation and fit, and for the functionality of their hardware. They should also be checked for their exterior condition of their frames and sills and for the proper operation and application of their hardware. Windows should be inspected for the exterior condition of their frames, sills and sashes, and for absence or presence of storm and screen units.

Decks, porches, and balconies are exposed to the elements and are therefore susceptible to deterioration from weathering. All visible, accessible portions of their support systems are inspected and evaluated. Horizontal surfaces are checked for adequate pitch away from the dwelling as well as for indications of deterioration.

Pitched or steep sloped roofs are best inspected by the use of binoculars in order to avoid potentially damaging the roof surface by walking on it; this is especially true of older roof coverings and wood shingle roofs. Some flat roofs may be walked on for inspection, however, it is always best to limit foot traffic on roof surfaces not specifically intended or designed for such use. Roof areas are evaluated for the composition, condition and appropriate application of the surfacing material and the condition of the flashing materials.

A roof with a pitch of less than a one foot rise over a twelve foot run is called a low slope roof. Low slope roofs connot utilize tab-seal shingles such as those applied to more steeply pitched roofs. Roll or sheet roofing materials are applied to low or almost flat roofs; no roof should be perfectly flat in order to avoid problems with ponding (standing water). Problems in low slope roofs are more common and also more difficult to diagnose because the path of water leakage is often difficult or impossible to trace. Low slope roofs are checked for indications of ponding or surface deflection of the roof deck.

From the exterior, all sky-lights are checked for cracked or broken glazing material, adequate flashing, and rusted or decayed frames. Skylights will be checked again during the interior inspection. Leaks and condensation within skylight tunnels is fairly common. Replacement skylights must comply with the current building code.

Buildings with pitched roofs can have a variety of drainage systems. Typically, pitched roofs end in gutters that are drained by down-spouts. Failure to provide adequate leader and gutter systems can result in various problems including water damage to soffit and fascia and erosion and drainage problems at the foundation.

Chimneys should project at least two feet above the highest part of a pitched roof and anything else that is within 10 feet (3 m). A chimney should project at least three feet from its penetration from the roof (required minimum heights may vary slightly). Check the local building code. Chimneys should be equipped with rain caps and varmint screening. A blocked or impacted chimney flue can pose serious health and safety issues within the home. Restricted or blocked chimneys can bring about the build-up of Carbon Monoxide within the home.

While lightning is more prevalent in some areas, it can occur anywhere at any time. Building codes in some areas may require ligtning protection for power lines, telephone service, and radio or television leads. Protection may also be recommended or required for metal roofs and sidings.