Exterior FAQ
Surrey exterior renovation questions
Stucco, rainscreen, siding choices, permits, painting season, windows, moss and rebates.
How do I know if my stucco is letting water in? j
Warning signs include cracks that keep reopening, dark staining below windows or at corners, bulging areas, and soft or musty spots inside on exterior walls. Some damage shows no outside signs at all, which is why we moisture-test the wall before recommending repair or replacement.
Do I need a rainscreen when I replace my siding? i
In most cases, a drained gap behind the new cladding is required or strongly recommended in the Lower Mainland's climate, and it is the best protection against the kind of moisture damage many older homes suffer. We confirm the requirements for your project and include the rainscreen details in the design.
What is the best siding for Surrey's rainy climate? i
Fibre cement is a popular choice because it resists rot, insects and fire and holds paint well. Vinyl is the lowest-maintenance and most affordable. Engineered wood and cedar give a warmer look with more upkeep. The installation, meaning the barrier, rainscreen and flashing behind it, matters more than which of these you choose.
Do I need a permit for exterior renovation in Surrey? i
Painting and like-for-like repairs usually do not. Recladding a whole house, replacing a roof structure, enlarging window or door openings, and heritage properties can need a City of Surrey permit or other approvals. We check what your project requires before starting.
When is the best time to paint the outside of a house in Surrey? i
The drier months, generally late spring through early fall, are best. Paint needs dry surfaces and suitable temperatures to bond and cure, so painting in wet weather risks peeling. Book early, because that window fills up quickly.
Should I replace windows at the same time as siding? i
If the windows are near the end of their life, yes. Installing new windows before the siding lets them be flashed properly into the new weather barrier. Replacing them later means cutting back the new cladding, which costs more and risks leaks.
Is moss on my roof a problem? i
It can be. Moss holds moisture against the shingles, lifts their edges and speeds up wear, and it is common on shaded Surrey roofs. Light moss can be cleaned and treated. If shingles are already curling, cracked or losing granules, it may be time for a new roof.
Are there rebates for new windows or exterior upgrades? i
Energy-efficiency rebates for items like windows, doors and insulation are offered from time to time by provincial and federal programs, and utilities. They change often, so check the current CleanBC Better Homes listings before you start. We can supply the product details and invoices those programs usually ask for.
How do I get an exterior renovation estimate? i
Use the
exterior estimate form or call
(604) 649-5404. Photos of the house and a note about what concerns you are enough to start. We then inspect the exterior, check for moisture, and give you a written scope and price.
Can I add a window to my Surrey townhouse? j
The City of Surrey’s guide for condos and townhouses says modifying the exterior envelope, such as adding a window, needs a building permit, and the application must include strata council approval. We start with the strata before drawings are finalized.
What does the City need if I want a bigger window? j
When an existing window or door is enlarged or a new one is installed, the City asks for an elevation drawing of the affected face of the building and a cross-section drawing through the wall with the application.
