When people think about home maintenance, they usually focus on what’s inside — HVAC systems, plumbing, flooring, or fixtures. But in reality, the exterior of your home does most of the hard work. It stands up to the sun, rain, and changing temperatures that define life in Arlington, Tennessee, and over time, even small defects can add up to serious damage.
As a home inspector serving Arlington and nearby West Tennessee communities, I’ve seen countless examples of homes where preventable exterior issues — a little bit of rot, a missing piece of flashing, or a clogged gutter — led to thousands in repair costs. The good news? Most of these problems are easy to spot if you know what to look for.
Failing or Missing Gutters and Downspouts
One of the simplest yet most damaging issues I see in Arlington homes is poor drainage. Many homeowners underestimate just how much water moves across a roof during a heavy storm. Without properly functioning gutters and downspouts, that water collects at the base of the foundation, eroding soil and seeping into crawlspaces or basements.
Over time, this kind of moisture intrusion doesn’t just threaten the foundation — it can also lead to siding decay, mildew on brickwork, and interior humidity problems. Regular cleaning, downspout extensions, and ensuring proper slope away from the house can make a dramatic difference in how long the structure lasts.
Damaged or Unsealed Siding
Whether a home in Arlington uses vinyl, fiber cement, brick veneer, or wood, the siding system’s job is to keep water out. When that system fails — due to cracked boards, gaps at joints, or missing caulking — moisture finds its way into wall cavities.
I’ve inspected homes that looked flawless from the street but had significant hidden rot behind deteriorated trim boards. The Tennessee climate, with its humidity and long wet seasons, makes these small openings especially risky. Regularly sealing joints, repainting wood siding, and replacing damaged panels promptly can prevent long-term structural damage.
Peeling Paint and Unprotected Wood
Paint isn’t just cosmetic; it’s a protective barrier. In older Arlington neighborhoods, particularly those with wood fascia, soffits, or porch trim, peeling paint allows moisture to soak into exposed wood. That moisture invites rot and insect activity — both of which can spread quickly once they take hold.
During inspections, I often probe trim boards near roof edges or window sills with a moisture meter or screwdriver to test for softness. Repainting on a regular schedule, especially with high-quality exterior paints and primers, can add years to the life of your home’s woodwork.
Foundation and Grading Problems
Arlington’s soil composition, like much of Shelby and Fayette counties, includes clay that expands and contracts dramatically with changes in moisture. If the ground near the foundation isn’t properly graded, that movement becomes even more pronounced.
A yard that slopes toward the house can direct rainwater right against the foundation wall. Over time, this leads to settling, cracking, and even basement leaks. Ideally, the soil around the perimeter should slope away at about six inches over ten feet. It’s a simple fix that can save thousands in future foundation repairs.
Roof and Flashing Deterioration
Roofing issues are one of the most expensive types of exterior damage to repair — yet they often start with something minor. A missing shingle, cracked sealant around a vent, or loose flashing around a chimney can all allow water into the roof decking.
In Arlington, where summer storms can bring heavy rain and high winds, roofs endure a lot of wear. I’ve seen leaks that began with one missing nail cap and ended with rotted decking and damaged insulation. Homeowners should visually check their roofs every season and schedule professional inspections at least once every few years, especially after major storms.
Cracked Driveways and Walkways
Concrete expands and contracts just like soil does. Small cracks might seem like no big deal, but when water seeps in and freezes (even in mild Tennessee winters), those cracks widen. Over time, uneven slabs can direct water toward the foundation instead of away from it.
Beyond appearance, cracked and uneven walkways can become safety hazards. Sealing small cracks early and keeping expansion joints filled can prevent much larger problems down the road.
Failing Caulking Around Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are natural weak spots in any home’s weather barrier. When caulking dries out or separates, water and air infiltration increase dramatically. Even minor leaks around these openings can raise energy costs and lead to rot inside the framing.
I often find that freshly painted homes hide deteriorated caulking, especially near window sills or door thresholds. Re-caulking once every few years and inspecting for gaps after major weather changes helps maintain both comfort and efficiency.
Damaged or Missing Vent Screens
Small details like vent screens may not seem critical, but in West Tennessee they’re essential for keeping pests — from birds to rodents — out of attics and crawlspaces. Once inside, animals can damage insulation, wiring, and ductwork, creating costly repairs and potential fire hazards.
During inspections, I always check gable, foundation, and soffit vents to make sure screens are intact and properly fitted. Preventing pest access is far easier than cleaning up after an infestation.
The Cost of Neglect vs. The Value of Maintenance
Every exterior issue, no matter how small, tends to grow if ignored. The cracks widen, the wood softens, and the water spreads. But the opposite is also true — a little maintenance goes a long way. In my inspections, the homes that age best aren’t the ones built the strongest; they’re the ones that have been cared for consistently.
Keeping your home’s exterior in good condition is about more than curb appeal — it’s about protecting the structure, preserving value, and ensuring your family’s comfort for years to come.
📞 Schedule Your Arlington Home Inspection Today
Serving Arlington, Lakeland, Bartlett, and surrounding West Tennessee communities, Upchurch Inspection provides certified home inspections, exterior evaluations, and specialized services including mold testing, radon testing, water testing, and sewer scope inspections.
📞 Call (901) 350-8885 or visit UpchurchInspection.com to schedule your inspection today.
