Exterior work takes a beating from our weather, and most of the problems I get called about started small and got ignored. Here's what to watch for on your roof, and how to make the right call on decks and fences.
How do I know when my roof needs replacing?
Look for curling or missing shingles, granules piling up in the gutters, daylight showing through the boards in the attic, and any sagging. If your roof is 20-plus years old on standard asphalt shingles, start budgeting, that's about their lifespan around here with our winters and freeze-thaw cycles. Leaks are the obvious sign, but by the time water's coming through the ceiling, the damage underneath is usually worse than you think. I do free roof assessments: I'll get up there, take photos, and show you exactly what I'm seeing, shingle condition, flashing, vents, the works. No pressure, just the facts.
Should I build a deck or a patio?
Depends on your yard and your budget. A patio (stone or pavers on grade) is cheaper, lasts longer with less maintenance, and works great on flat lots. A deck makes sense if your yard slopes, your back door is elevated, or you want that classic wood look, but budget for staining every couple of years, or go composite and skip the maintenance. Patios run $15–$30 per square foot; wood decks $25–$45; composite $40–$70. Market range, final price confirmed in your free estimate. Either way, check setback rules with the city before you fall in love with a design.
How deep should fence posts go?
Below the frost line, around here that's 4 feet. Anything shallower and frost heave will push your posts up within a couple of winters. I see it all the time: a fence that looked great in July leaning like a drunk by March. Set posts in concrete, crown the concrete so water runs off instead of pooling around the post, and use pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact. A 6-foot privacy fence with posts at proper depth and good materials will stand straight for 15 to 20 years. Cheap out on depth and you'll be rebuilding in five, and paying for it twice.
Your home's exterior is its first line of defence against the weather. If your roof is aging, your deck is rotting, or your fence is leaning, get someone up there to look at it before winter does the deciding for you.
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