Handyman & Home Repair in Portsmouth, VA

The median home in the city of Portsmouth was built in 1967, older than the U.S. median of 1980 and older than the Virginia median of 1984.¹ Older houses accumulate small defects - sticking doors, cracked caulk, settled trim - that bundle well into one visit. The Norfolk Intl Ap station averages 41 nights a year at or below 32°F and 4 at or below 20°F.^2,3 Before the first freeze, exterior hose bibs, caulk joints and weatherstripping are the usual maintenance list.

Rainfall is substantial: about 49 inches a year, 13 days of it an inch or more.^2,3 Heavy rain finds every failed caulk joint and clogged gutter; exterior sealing is the most common repair request. Summers bring about 36 days a year at or above 90°F.^2,3 Housing in Portsmouth is mostly detached single-family: 62% of units, with 20% in buildings of five or more units.¹ Detached houses carry the full exterior list: decks, fences, gutters and siding.

Portsmouth is about 8 miles from the ocean or Gulf coast in a straight line.^4,5 Salt air corrodes exterior fasteners, hinges and railings; stainless replacements are the usual recommendation. Heating and cooling loads are both real: about 3,070 heating and 1,873 cooling degree days a year (base 65°F).^2,3 With both heating and cooling seasons, assemblies are specified for moisture movement in both directions.