Exterior Protection Checklist Audit
How to use this checklist
Walk the exterior first. Use a flashlight. You’re looking for gaps, cracks, missing seals, and openings around edges and penetrations.
Rule of thumb: If a gap looks big enough to fit the tip of your pinky, it’s worth addressing.
CHECKLIST:
Step 1 — Roofline, Eaves, and Soffits
☐ Gaps at soffit returns and roofline transitions
☐ Loose or damaged vent screens (attic, gable, roof vents)
☐ Openings where fascia meets siding/trim
☐ Damaged or missing caulk at trim joints
☐ Evidence of nesting activity (debris, staining, droppings near edges)
Step 2 — Windows and Trim
☐ Gaps between window frame and siding/trim
☐ Cracked or missing caulk around frames
☐ Damaged screens or bent frames
☐ Weep holes blocked (can trap moisture and attract pests)
☐ Shrubbery touching window areas (bridges pests to the home)
Step 3 — Doors and Thresholds
☐ Door sweep missing, torn, or allowing daylight underneath
☐ Weather stripping cracked or loose along sides/top
☐ Threshold gaps at corners (common entry point)
☐ Garage door bottom seal worn or curled at corners
☐ Door frames out of square (creates persistent gaps)
Step 4 — Foundation Line and Siding Transitions
☐ Cracks in foundation, expansion joints, or mortar gaps
☐ Siding meets foundation gaps (especially corners)
☐ Openings behind hose bibs, spigots, or wall plates
☐ Mulch/soil piled high against siding (invites pests and moisture)
☐ Wood-to-ground contact (trim, steps, posts)
Step 5 — Utility Penetrations
(These are some of the highest-value checks.)
☐ AC line set entry gap (refrigerant line into wall)
☐ Cable/phone/fiber entry point gap
☐ Plumbing penetrations (kitchen, bath, exterior)
☐ Dryer vent cover intact and sealed to siding
☐ Exhaust vents with intact screens/louvers
☐ Meter boxes and conduit entries sealed
WHAT TO DO NEXT
If you checked “yes” on any items
Don’t seal everything blindly if you suspect active pests (you can trap them inside).
Reduce exterior pressure: remove clutter, trim back vegetation, store items off the ground.
Schedule an inspection if you’re seeing repeat activity or aren’t sure what matters.
UPLOAD A PHOTO
Want us to review what you found?
Upload photos of gaps or problem areas and we’ll tell you what stands out.
FAQ
How often should I do this checklist?
Monthly during peak seasons and after big storms or repairs.
Will sealing gaps solve everything?
It helps a lot, but some issues also require reducing exterior pressure and targeted treatment.
Do you treat inside?
We focus on exterior prevention first and only treat inside when it’s truly necessary.