Exterior remodeling Roof, walls, windows and decks
Exterior remodeling covers the parts of your home that face the weather: the roof, siding, windows and doors, decks, gutters and trim. Whether you are planning a roof replacement, new siding or a full exterior renovation, the work is judged by how well it sheds water, not only by how it looks from the street. Call 804-566-7669.
How it works
- Call 804-566-7669Your call connects to an independent contractor in your area.
- Talk it throughSay what you want done, the age of the house and when you hope to start.
- Get it in writingScope, schedule and price on paper before any work starts. Then you decide.
Exterior jobs
Pick the job closest to yours for what it involves, what decides it, and when to call.
1What exterior remodeling covers
The exterior of a house is a layered system. Roofing and siding are the visible outer skin, but behind them sit underlayment, housewrap, flashing and sheathing that do most of the real work of keeping water out. Windows, doors, vents and roof penetrations are the weak points where that system is interrupted, and they need careful detailing every time something is replaced.
Most exterior projects start with a problem: a roof that leaks or is losing granules, siding that is cracked or soft, drafty windows, a deck that feels springy, or water pooling against the foundation. Start with the job that stops water first. A new paint job over rotted trim or new siding under a failing roof edge usually has to be redone sooner than you expect.
If several jobs are on your list, order matters. Roofing usually comes before gutters, and windows are often replaced before or together with siding so the flashing can be integrated with the new housewrap. Decks attached to the house tie into the siding and need a flashed ledger. Planning the sequence with a local contractor can save you from paying to remove new work later.
2What decides it
Need work done on the outside of your home?
3Before you hire
Ask these before you sign anything.
- Ask how flashing is handledHave the contractor explain how they flash windows, doors, roof-to-wall joints and penetrations, not just what finish product they use.
- Ask who pulls the permitIn most places the contractor pulls the permit, and a homeowner-pulled permit can shift responsibility for code compliance to you.
- Get a plan for hidden rotAsk how rotted sheathing, trim or framing will be handled and priced if it turns up once old material is removed.
- Confirm the manufacturer’s install requirementsMany roofing, siding and window warranties depend on installation that follows the manufacturer’s instructions, so ask whether the crew follows them.
- Check local registration and insurance yourselfRequirements vary by state and city, so verify any contractor registration or license and ask for proof of insurance before work starts.
Need work done on the outside of your home?
Talk to a local contractor about it today.
4Questions
What happens when I call?
Your call to 804-566-7669 connects to an independent local contractor. Describe the project, ask your questions, and decide whether you want a quote. Calling does not commit you to anything. iLikeToFix earns a referral fee when a call connects; here is how that works.
What exterior project should I do first?
Start with whatever is letting water in. A leaking roof or failing flashing usually comes first because water damage spreads into sheathing, framing and insulation. After that, windows and siding are often done together so the flashing and housewrap tie in properly, and gutters and paint usually come last so they are not damaged by other work.
Do I need a permit for exterior remodeling?
Often, yes. Roof replacement, structural decks and porches, and windows or doors that change size commonly need permits, and some places also require them for siding. Like-for-like repairs and painting usually do not. Rules vary by city and county, and homes in historic districts or HOAs may need separate approval, so check locally before work starts.
Can exterior work be done in winter?
Some of it can. Roofing, siding and window work is often done in cool weather, but many sealants, adhesive strips on shingles and paints have minimum temperature limits listed on the product label. Rain and snow also make tear-offs risky because the house is open. Painting and deck staining usually wait for warmer, dry weather.
Why does exterior work so often uncover rot?
Water that gets behind roofing, siding or trim can sit against wood for years without showing on the surface. When the old material comes off, soft sheathing, sill plates or rim joists are common finds. Ask any contractor how they price that work, and if you see stains or mold inside, it may help to read about water damage first.
How do I compare quotes for exterior work?
Compare scope line by line, not just totals. Check whether each quote includes tear-off and disposal, underlayment or housewrap, new flashing, trim, permits and cleanup, and how hidden rot will be priced. A lower quote that reuses old flashing or skips housewrap details may cost more over the life of the house.
More remodeling guides
Exterior remodeling start with one call
Talk to a local contractor. Calling does not commit you to anything.