Your home’s exterior is its first line of defense against the elements. In the Midwest, harsh winters, heavy rain, high winds, and severe storms can take a serious toll on your roof, siding, gutters, windows, and foundation. That’s why scheduling a regular exterior home inspection is one of the smartest steps homeowners in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin can take to protect their investment.
This comprehensive exterior home inspection checklist will help you identify early warning signs, prevent costly repairs, and keep your home safe, efficient, and storm-ready year-round.
1. Roof Inspection: Your Home’s Primary Protection
A roof inspection is one of the most important parts of any exterior inspection. Look for:
Missing, cracked, curling, or loose shingles
Sagging areas or uneven rooflines
Damaged flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents
Granules collecting in gutters or at downspouts
Interior signs of roof leaks, such as ceiling stains or attic moisture
Routine roof inspections help extend roof lifespan and reduce the risk of water damage after storms.
2. Siding & Exterior Walls: Structural Integrity and Curb Appeal
Your siding protects your home from moisture, pests, and temperature loss while enhancing curb appeal. Inspect for:
Cracked, warped, rotting, or loose siding panels
Moisture intrusion or mold growth
Peeling paint or exposed wood
Proper clearance between siding and the ground
Well-maintained siding improves energy efficiency and prevents long-term structural issues.
Schedule a Professional Exterior Inspection
While homeowners can identify obvious issues, many exterior problems go unnoticed without trained eyes. Huskie Exteriors provides professional exterior inspections for roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and storm damage, helping homeowners catch problems early and avoid expensive repairs.
3. Foundation Inspection: The Base of Your Home
Your foundation supports the entire structure of your home. During an exterior inspection, check for:
Visible cracks or shifting
Uneven settling or bowing walls
Water pooling near the foundation
Signs of erosion or soil movement
Early detection of foundation issues can prevent major structural damage.
4. Windows & Doors: Energy Efficiency and Security
Properly sealed windows and doors help maintain indoor comfort and reduce energy bills. Inspect for:
Cracked glass or damaged frames
Drafts, air leaks, or failing weatherstripping
Condensation or fogging between window panes
Doors that stick, don’t close properly, or allow moisture inside
Replacing aging windows and doors improves efficiency, comfort, and home security.
5. Gutters & Downspouts: Water Management Matters
Gutters play a critical role in directing water away from your home. Look for:
Clogged gutters filled with debris
Loose, sagging, or damaged sections
Downspouts discharging water too close to the foundation
Signs of overflow or fascia damage
Proper gutter installation and maintenance prevent foundation damage and basement leaks.
6. Exterior Grading & Drainage
Poor drainage can lead to serious water problems. Make sure:
The ground slopes away from your home
Water does not pool near the foundation
Landscaping supports proper drainage flow
Correct grading helps protect basements and crawl spaces from moisture intrusion.
7. Decks, Porches & Outdoor Structures
Outdoor living areas should be safe and structurally sound. Inspect for:
Rotting wood or loose boards
Unstable railings or stairs
Rusted or failing fasteners
Insect damage
Routine inspections help prevent safety hazards and costly repairs.
8. Driveways, Walkways & Hardscapes
Exterior surfaces also impact safety and curb appeal. Look for:
Cracks or uneven concrete
Trip hazards
Drainage issues causing standing water
Small repairs can significantly extend the lifespan of these surfaces.
Helpful Tips for a Thorough Exterior Home Inspection
Walk around your home slowly and inspect from multiple angles
Take photos to document problem areas
Perform inspections seasonally, especially after storms
Contact professionals for roof, siding, or gutter concerns
Why Exterior Home Inspections Are So Important
A routine exterior home inspection helps homeowners:
Prevent costly repairs
Improve energy efficiency
Maintain curb appeal and property value
Identify storm damage early
Protect the structural integrity of their home
Proactive maintenance is always more affordable than emergency repairs.
Exterior Home Inspection FAQs
How often should I schedule an exterior home inspection?
Most homes should be inspected at least once per year and after major storms.
What exterior issues are common after Midwest storms?
Hail damage, missing shingles, siding cracks, gutter damage, and window seal failure are common after severe weather.
Can an exterior inspection help prevent roof leaks?
Yes. Identifying damaged shingles or flashing early can prevent interior water damage.
Do I need a professional roof inspection?
Professional inspections catch hidden issues that homeowners often miss and provide documentation for insurance claims if needed.
Can exterior inspections help with insurance claims?
Yes. Professional inspections help identify storm damage and support accurate insurance claim documentation.
Protect Your Home with a Professional Exterior Inspection
If you’ve noticed signs of wear, aging materials, or recent storm damage, Huskie Exteriors is here to help. Our experienced team provides trusted exterior inspections and remodeling services throughout Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.
Contact Huskie Exteriors today to schedule your professional exterior home inspection and keep your home protected for years to come.
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