How to Do Your Own Yearly Exterior Home Inspection
Expert Tips from a Trusted Painting Company in Vancouver, WA
Every homeowner should take time once a year to walk around their home and inspect the exterior. Why? Because our wet Pacific Northwest weather is tough on homes—and catching issues early can save you thousands. As a trusted painting company in Vancouver, WA, we at Top Notch Painting & Construction LLC have seen how small problems like peeling paint or cracked trim can quickly turn into major repairs.
The good news? You don’t need to be a pro to do a basic inspection. With this simple checklist, you can assess your home’s condition and know when it’s time to call in a professional for repairs or a fresh coat of paint.
What to Look for During Your DIY Exterior Inspection
Grab a notepad or your phone and take a slow walk around your home. Here’s what to look for:
1. Peeling or Fading Paint
Is your paint bubbling, cracking, or peeling? These are signs that the protective layer is breaking down. Your home may need exterior painting soon.
2. Cracked or Missing Caulk
Check around windows, doors, and joints in the siding. Cracked caulking lets moisture in, which can lead to dry rot or interior leaks.
3. Wood Rot or Soft Spots
Use a screwdriver or key to gently press on wood trim, decks, and siding. Soft or crumbling areas may mean dry rot repairis needed.
4. Siding Damage
Look for cracks, warping, or discoloration. In some cases, pressure washing and repainting can restore the look—if caught early.
5. Deck & Fence Wear
Look for loose boards, discoloration, or splinters. You might just need a deck staining or sealing job to protect it for another year.
6. Gutters & Downspouts
Check for clogs, sagging, or disconnected parts. Gutters that don’t drain properly can damage your siding and foundation.
Why Your Annual Inspection Matters
Even small paint cracks can let in water, which leads to mold, rot, or pest infestations. A yearly inspection gives you a chance to catch issues early—when they’re much easier (and cheaper) to fix.
While a homeowner can catch surface-level problems, calling in a local painting company like Top Notch gives you the peace of mind that nothing is missed. If you spot anything questionable during your walkaround, we’re happy to take a closer look with a free evaluation.
When to Call a Professional Painting Company
Here are some signs it’s time to call in the pros:
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Peeling paint or exposed wood
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Cracked caulking that’s pulling away
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Soft or rotting trim
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Fading color that’s hurting your curb appeal
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You’re planning to sell your home soon
At Top Notch Painting & Construction, we’ve helped homeowners across Vancouver, Camas, Battle Ground, Ridgefield, and beyond maintain and restore their exteriors with high-quality craftsmanship and long-lasting paint finishes. See our work in action on our projects page.
Related Services to Consider After Your Inspection
After your DIY inspection, you may find your home needs more than just a touch-up. We offer:
We can bundle services to save you time and money while keeping your home looking its best.
Serving Homeowners Across Clark County
Whether you’re in Vancouver, Washougal, La Center, or Salmon Creek, Top Notch is the painting company your neighbors trust. See the areas we serve and let us know how we can help after your inspection.
FAQs for DIY Exterior Home Inspections
When is the best time to inspect my home’s exterior?
Spring or early summer is ideal—after the winter weather has passed.
What tools do I need for my inspection?
A flashlight, screwdriver, and your phone to take pictures or notes. No fancy tools needed.
How long will it take?
Plan for about 30–45 minutes for a full walkaround.
What if I see mold or mildew?
We offer pressure washing services to safely remove it and prep your home for painting if needed.
Do I need to repaint if the color is fading?
Fading often means the paint is no longer protecting your siding. Repainting helps maintain both appearance and durability.
Schedule a Free Evaluation if You Spot Issues
Did your inspection reveal problems you’re not sure how to handle? That’s what we’re here for. Call Top Notch Painting & Construction LLC—your trusted local painting company in Vancouver, WA—for a free exterior evaluation and professional recommendations.
📞 (503) 956-3097
📧 info@topnotchnw.com
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