Karbowski Residence – Exterior Trim, Paint & Gutter Restoration – Lake Orion, MI - The Exterior Zone

The Challenge

The Karbowski family contacted The Exterior Zone after discovering wood rot and active water intrusion above a rear sliding glass door. The vinyl-sided home had decorative wood trim along peaks, garage doors, and doors, much of which showed advanced deterioration. Temporary plastic and duct tape had been applied to stop leaking, but long-term protection required a full professional restoration.

The homeowners were referred by Rob B., and sought a solution that not only repaired the damage but improved the overall durability, ventilation, and curb appeal of their home.

Our Approach

We began with a Zone Expert Diagnostic Evaluation to identify moisture entry points, inspect transition boards, and assess ventilation balance. Our findings revealed multiple flashing and drainage concerns behind decorative trim and awning attachments—common in vinyl-over-wood configurations.

From there, our plan focused on:

Replacing all compromised trim and fascia with composite MiraTec.
Correcting J-channel and Z-flashing interfaces to prevent future infiltration.
Upgrading soffit ventilation and gutter performance.
Finishing the exterior with premium Benjamin Moore finishes for long-term protection.

Scope of Work

Wood Trim & Flashing

Removed and replaced rotted transition boards, rake trim, and fascia throughout home.
Installed new 4/4 MiraTec composite trim across peaks, garage doors, and chimney chase.
Custom-bent TZ and Z-flashing at all horizontal transitions, ensuring proper water drainage at siding joints and trim intersections.
Rebuilt chimney chase top with stacked 1×6 and 1×4 assemblies and integrated 24-gauge X-brace steel chimney cap (black).
Re-flashed and re-secured awning above sliding glass door—lowered 3″ for improved drainage and structural fastening into studs.

Surface Preparation & Painting

Full hot-water exterior wash and mildew removal using low-pressure cleaning system.
Sanded and prepped all trim surfaces; sealed seams with TowerTech 2 Urethane Acrylic and NPC Solar Seal 900.
Primed all bare wood and applied Benjamin Moore Regal Select High-Build for wood and Aura Exterior for metal.
Stained custom cedar shutters with Benjamin Moore Woodluxe Semi-Trans Oil Stain (Negro).
Color scheme: Black trim & garage doors, white basement window frames, black shutter stain.

Ventilation & Gutter System

Installed (24) 8×16 louvered soffit vents to improve attic intake airflow.
Fabricated and installed 6″ seamless black aluminum gutters with Raytec hidden hangers and 3×4 downspouts.
Integrated cleanout leaf filters and Zip Hinge extensions for easy homeowner maintenance.

Detail Repairs

Replaced rotted sheathing at chimney and rear slider.
Corrected apron flashing and transition gaps.
Added new garage door weatherstripping and updated TZ flashings around openings.

The Result

The transformation achieved both beauty and performance. The new black-and-white exterior palette modernized the home’s curb appeal while the composite trim, advanced sealants, and precision flashing provided structural resilience against Michigan’s weather.