<p></p> <img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/AdobeStock_468205064.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/> <p></p> <p><em>Originally written by Radu Binzari of Strong Builders Construction, Inc.</em></p> <p>A crucial aspect of home energy efficiency is keeping outside air from getting inside. To identify potential catalysts of air transmission, perform the following inspections on your home’s exterior:</p> <ul> <li>Check bricks and blocks for cracked mortar or loose joints.</li> <li>Check siding for loose or missing pieces, lifting or warping, or signs of mildew.</li> <li>Inspect painted surfaces for paint failure (peeling, blistering, chalking), water damage or mildew.</li> <li>Examine all trim for tightness of fit, damage or decay.</li> <li>Assess the condition of caulking in joints where two different materials meet, such as where wood siding joins the foundation wall.</li> <li>Check windows for cracked or broken glass, loose putty around the glass panes, or evidence of moisture between the panes.</li> <li>Assess weatherstripping on windows and doors for damage and tightness of fit.&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a></p> <p><strong>Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/real-estate-home-inspections/ca/contra-costa-county/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Home Inspection Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/real-estate-home-inspections/ca/alameda-county/" target="_self">Alameda County Home Inspection Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/real-estate-home-inspections/ca/san-mateo-county/" target="_self">San Mateo County Home Inspection Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/real-estate-home-inspections/ca/san-francisco-county/" target="_self">San Francisco Home Inspection Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/real-estate-home-inspections/ca/napa-county/" target="_self">Napa County Home Inspection Companies </a>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/home-inspections-of-all-types/" target="_self">The Essential Guide to Home Inspections of All Types</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>