I don’t know about you, but I can get so caught up in taking care of things inside my house
that I sometimes forget to take a good look outside. It’s easy to miss small issues until they become big, expensive problems.
A missing roof shingle? Eh, no big deal—until a storm rolls through, and suddenly, you’ve got a leak. Overgrown bushes? They seem
harmless—until they create a perfect hiding spot for someone who shouldn’t be there.
That’s why I’ve made it a habit to do a quick “walk-around” of my house every so often, looking for anything that might need attention. It doesn’t take long, and it gives me peace of mind knowing I’m staying ahead of potential
problems.
If you’re not already doing this, here are a few things to keep an eye on:
1. Roof
and Gutters Check: You don’t need to climb up there yourself (and I wouldn’t recommend it!), but take a step back and look at your roof. Are any shingles missing, curled, or loose? If so, they might need to be replaced before bad weather makes things worse.
Also, peek at your gutters—if they’re overflowing with leaves or pulling away from the house, they won’t do their job properly.
2. Foundation and Driveway Scan: Walk around the base of your home and look for cracks in the foundation. Small cracks can sometimes be sealed easily, but if
they’re growing, it might be time to call in an expert. Also, check your driveway and walkways for cracks or uneven areas that could become tripping hazards.
3. Overgrown Landscaping: Bushes and trees that are too close to windows or doors aren’t just a cosmetic issue—they can be a safety risk. They provide easy hiding
spots for anyone who shouldn’t be lurking around. Trim them back so you can clearly see all entrances to your home. While you’re at it, check for branches
hanging over the roof. Heavy snow or high winds could send them crashing down. 4. Outdoor Lighting: Ever pull into your driveway at night and realize one of your porch lights is out? Good lighting is important for safety, so take a minute to check your outdoor bulbs. Consider motion-sensor lights in darker areas—they’re great for security and can help prevent late-night stumbles. 5. Windows and Doors: Check that all doors and windows shut properly and aren’t loose or drafty. If a window doesn’t lock well, it might need a new latch. And while you’re there, give the glass a once-over—cracks, even small ones, can weaken over time.
6. Pests and Critter Damage: Look for signs of unwanted guests, like small holes in the siding, chew marks, or nests in the eaves. If you see a line of ants heading into your house, it’s time to act before they invite their entire extended family.
7. Hose Bibs and Exterior
Pipes: If you live in a colder climate, a frozen outdoor faucet can turn into a burst pipe inside your home. Make sure hoses are disconnected before freezing weather, and if you notice a slow drip, fix it before it becomes a bigger issue.
8. Mailbox and House Numbers: Is your mailbox leaning? Are your
house numbers faded or missing? This may not seem urgent, but clear house numbers are crucial if emergency services ever need to find you
quickly. Make It a Habit
I try to do this little inspection every few months—before winter, again in spring, and anytime after a big storm. If you’re short on time, just tackle one or two things at a time. The key is to notice small
problems before they turn into big headaches.
Next time you step outside, take a quick look around. Your future self (and your home repair budget) will thank you.
On another note...
Do you know someone who could use a little extra comfort right now? Whether they’re recovering from an illness or surgery, facing a tough health challenge, or simply in need of a
pick-me-up, I’ve put together a Gifts of Comfort Idea List. It’s filled with thoughtful and practical gift ideas designed to lift spirits, provide warmth, and
bring a little joy when it’s needed most—easy, meaningful, and sure to brighten their day! 
