BBQs, Bonfires, and Blown Shingles: 5 Ways Summer Fun Can Hurt Your Home’s Exterior

Introduction

Summer in Northern Michigan is unbeatable—lake days, backyard barbecues, dogs playing in the yard, bonfires under the stars. But while we’re enjoying the warmth and sunshine, our homes are quietly dealing with the side effects of all that fun. Between cookouts, storms, and intense heat, your exterior takes more abuse than you might think.

At Revive Exteriors, we’ve seen it all—from warped siding to scorched trim—and we know a little prevention can go a long way. So before you fire up the grill or light that bonfire, here are five ways summer fun can accidentally hurt your home’s exterior (and how to avoid it).

1. Grills and Siding Don’t Mix

Vinyl siding looks great, but it doesn’t stand a chance against the heat of a backyard barbecue that’s set too close. Grills radiate enough heat to melt or warp siding from several feet away. Even a quick cookout can leave permanent damage.

How to Prevent It:

• Keep grills at least 10 feet from your home or deck railings.

• Use a heat-resistant grill mat to protect decking.

• Watch wind direction—hot exhaust and grease can drift farther than you expect.

2. Bonfires and Flying Sparks

Nothing beats a Michigan summer night around a firepit—but a stray spark can cause big problems. Embers can melt vinyl siding, leave scorch marks on gutters, and even singe asphalt shingles if they travel upward on a gust.

How to Prevent It:

• Use a spark screen on your firepit.

• Place the firepit at least 25 feet from your home or garage.

• Avoid fires on windy nights.

• Always extinguish completely before heading in for the night.

3. Lawn Games and Ladder Scrapes

Frisbees, baseballs, and cornhole boards don’t usually mix with windows, gutters, or trim. Even casual backyard fun can leave behind dents or cracked seals if things get rowdy.

How to Prevent It:

• Designate a “safe play zone” away from the house.

• Keep ladders and yard tools stored properly to avoid accidental bumps or gouges.

• Check for loose siding panels or gutter seams after big get-togethers—small dings can turn into water leaks later.

4. Storms and Sudden Wind Gusts

Michigan’s summer weather is unpredictable. One minute it’s sunny, the next a thunderstorm rolls through with high winds strong enough to lift shingles, bend gutters, or drive water behind siding.

How to Prevent It:

• Schedule a free roof inspection after severe storms.

• Trim overhanging branches that can whip or fall on your home.

• Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent overflow during heavy rain.

5. Overwatering and Foundation Splash-back

We love a green lawn—but watering systems that spray against siding or soak near the foundation can lead to rot, mold, and erosion.

How to Prevent It:

• Adjust sprinkler heads to spray away from your home.

• Ensure downspouts extend 4–6 feet from the foundation.

• Inspect siding bottoms and window trims for any water-stained or soft areas.

Final Thoughts

Summer should be carefree, not costly. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy every bonfire, barbecue, playing fetch with your furry friends, and backyard games without damaging your biggest investment—your home.

At Revive Exteriors, we’re here to help homeowners protect what they’ve worked so hard to build. From heat-warped siding to storm-damaged roofs, we restore and reinforce homes across Northern Michigan with craftsmanship that lasts.

Schedule a free summer inspection today and make sure your home is ready for whatever the season brings.