Roofing and Exterior Maintenance Guide for Kamloops Homes

Roofing and Exterior Maintenance Guide for Kamloops Homes

Kamloops' unique semi-arid climate, with hot summers, cold winters, and occasional severe weather, makes regular roof and exterior maintenance essential. This guide will help you protect your home's first line of defense against the elements.

Understanding Kamloops Weather Challenges

Climate Factors

Hot, dry summers with intense UV exposure

Cold winters with freeze-thaw cycles

Occasional heavy snowfall

Spring and fall windstorms

Low humidity that can cause material drying

Impact on Exteriors

These conditions can cause:

Premature shingle deterioration

Wood drying and cracking

Sealant failure

Foundation settling

Moisture intrusion

Roof Inspection and Maintenance

Spring Inspection Checklist

After winter, check for:

Missing, curling, or damaged shingles

Granule loss in gutters

Damaged flashing around chimneys and vents

Signs of water damage in attic

Sagging areas

Clogged gutters and downspouts

Fall Preparation

Before winter arrives:

Clean gutters and downspouts thoroughly

Trim overhanging branches

Check attic ventilation

Inspect skylights and seals

Ensure proper insulation

Professional Inspections

Have a professional roof inspection:

Every 3-5 years for newer roofs

Annually for roofs over 15 years

After severe storms or high winds

Before buying or selling a home

Roofing Materials for Kamloops

Asphalt Shingles

Most popular and affordable:

3-tab: Basic, 15-20 year lifespan

Architectural: Dimensional, 25-30 years

Premium: Enhanced durability, 30-50 years

Cost: $4-8 per square foot installed

Metal Roofing

Excellent for Kamloops climate:

Extremely durable (50+ years)

Reflects summer heat

Sheds snow effectively

Fire resistant

Cost: $10-16 per square foot

Cedar Shakes

Natural beauty with maintenance:

Beautiful, natural appearance

Requires regular treatment

20-30 year lifespan with care

Higher maintenance than other options

Tile and Slate

Premium, long-lasting options:

Concrete or clay tile

Natural slate

50-100+ year lifespan

Heavy - requires structural assessment

Siding Maintenance

Vinyl Siding

Low maintenance but needs care:

Wash annually with mild soap

Check for cracks or damage

Ensure proper drainage behind panels

Inspect caulking around openings

Fiber Cement Siding

Durable and fire-resistant:

Paint every 10-15 years

Check for moisture intrusion

Inspect caulk joints annually

Clean gutters to prevent staining

Wood Siding

Beautiful but maintenance-intensive:

Stain or paint every 3-7 years

Check for rot and insect damage

Ensure 6-8 inch clearance from ground

Repair splits and cracks promptly

Stucco

Common in Kamloops, durable when maintained:

Inspect for cracks annually

Repair small cracks quickly

Check sealants around windows and doors

Clean to prevent mold and mildew

Window and Door Maintenance

Regular Inspections

Check seasonally for:

Failed window seals (condensation between panes)

Cracked or broken glass

Damaged weatherstripping

Caulk deterioration

Proper operation (opening/closing)

Weatherstripping

Replace when worn:

Reduces drafts and energy loss

Improves comfort

Lowers heating/cooling costs

Easy DIY project

Caulking

Maintain seals around:

Window and door frames

Where siding meets trim

Around exterior penetrations

Expansion joints

Gutter Systems

Importance of Functional Gutters

Proper drainage protects:

Foundation from water damage

Siding from staining and rot

Landscaping from erosion

Basement from flooding

Maintenance Schedule

Clean in spring and fall

Check for leaks and proper slope

Ensure downspouts extend 6+ feet from foundation

Repair or replace damaged sections

Consider gutter guards for reduced maintenance

Foundation Care

Grading and Drainage

Ensure positive slope away from foundation:

6 inches of drop in first 10 feet

No flower beds against foundation

Functional downspout extensions

French drains if needed

Crack Monitoring

Some settling is normal, but watch for:

Cracks wider than 1/4 inch

Horizontal cracks

Stair-step cracks in brick

Doors or windows that stick

Basement Moisture

Signs of problems:

Musty odors

Efflorescence on walls

Damp spots or puddles

Mold or mildew

Deck and Patio Maintenance

Wooden Decks

Annual maintenance required:

Clean and inspect boards

Tighten loose fasteners

Stain or seal every 2-3 years

Check railings and stairs

Replace rotted boards

Composite Decking

Lower maintenance alternative:

Clean annually

Check for mold/mildew in shaded areas

Inspect fasteners and structure

No staining or sealing required

Concrete Patios

Durable but needs care:

Seal every 2-3 years

Repair cracks promptly

Clean stains quickly

Ensure proper drainage

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist

Spring (March-May)

[ ] Inspect roof for winter damage

[ ] Clean gutters and downspouts

[ ] Check foundation grading

[ ] Inspect siding and caulking

[ ] Service HVAC systems

[ ] Clean windows and screens

Summer (June-August)

[ ] Touch up exterior paint as needed

[ ] Clean and seal deck

[ ] Trim trees away from house

[ ] Check attic ventilation

[ ] Inspect outdoor faucets

Fall (September-November)

[ ] Clean gutters thoroughly

[ ] Check weatherstripping

[ ] Inspect roof before winter

[ ] Service heating systems

[ ] Drain exterior faucets

[ ] Clean and store outdoor furniture

Winter (December-February)

[ ] Monitor roof snow load

[ ] Check for ice dams

[ ] Inspect interior for leaks

[ ] Clear snow from ground-level vents

[ ] Monitor foundation for frost heave

When to Call Professionals

Roof Issues

Significant damage or leaks

Sagging roof deck

Multiple missing shingles

Flashing problems

Before major storms

Structural Concerns

Foundation cracks

Significant settling

Door/window alignment issues

Sagging beams or floors

Siding and Exterior

Large areas of damage

Moisture intrusion signs

Extensive rot

Major repainting needs

Conclusion

Regular maintenance of your home's exterior protects your investment and prevents costly repairs. By following this guide and addressing issues promptly, you can extend the life of your roof, siding, and other exterior components while maintaining your home's beauty and value.

Need professional help with roofing or exterior maintenance? Contact Hodder Construction at (250) 828-8760 for expert service in Kamloops.