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02Sep
The Different Types of Home Inspections

The Different Types of Home Inspections

A home inspection is an assessment of a home’s condition. It is performed by a trained and experienced inspector who will look at the home’s structure, systems, and components and identify any problems that may exist.

What to expect: The inspection will take a few hours and the inspector will provide a written report with their findings. There are a few different types of home inspections. Your situation and needs will determine what type of inspection you need.

1. Pre-purchase Home Inspections

Importance: A home inspection is an assessment of a home’s condition. A pre-purchase home inspection is an objective examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. Home inspectors look for any major defects or repairs that may be needed. A professional home inspector will take the time to explain the condition of the property and answer any questions you may have. A home inspection is a valuable tool in the home buying process, providing peace of mind and helping to avoid any unforeseen problems down the road.

2. New Construction Home Inspections

Importance: It is important to have a new construction home inspected because even though the home is new, there could be hidden problems that the builder is not aware of. There are many potential problems that can go undetected during the construction process, and a professional home inspector will be able to identify any potential issues. Some of the most common problems that are found during new construction home inspections include faulty wiring, plumbing leaks, and structural issues. In addition, the inspector will also check for things like mold and mildew, which can be a problem in new homes due to the high humidity levels during construction. By having a professional home inspection performed before you finalize your purchase, you can rest assured that your new home is safe and sound.

What to expect: The inspection will take a few hours and the inspector will provide a written report with their findings.

3. Warranty Home Inspections

Importance: A warranty home inspection is important because it can help identify any problems with the home that are still under warranty. Warranty home inspections are important for protecting your investment. Many things can go wrong with a home, and if you don’t have a warranty, you could be stuck paying for repairs yourself. With a home inspection, you can get peace of mind knowing that your home is in good condition and that any problems will be covered by the warranty. Home inspectors will check for things like leaks, cracks, and other damage. They will also make sure that all of the appliances are working properly. If there are any problems, they will let you know so that you can get them fixed before they become bigger problems and your warranty expires. Warranty home inspections are an important part of owning a home, and they can save you a lot of money in the long run.

4. Maintenance Home Inspections

Importance: A maintenance home inspection is important because it can help identify any potential problems with the home before they become serious. Home inspection is a vital part of home maintenance. By regularly checking your home for potential problems, you can avoid costly repairs and help keep your family safe. While you can certainly inspect your home yourself, it’s often best to hire a professional inspector who has the training and experience to spot potential problems. A professional inspector will also be able to provide you with a written report detailing any areas of concern. If you’re thinking of hiring a home inspector, be sure to ask for references. You should also check reviews to ensure that you’re choosing a reputable, qualified professional.

Sound Structure Home Inspection

If you’re in Tequesta, FL and looking for a pre-purchase home inspection, new construction inspection, warranty home inspection, or maintenance home inspection, call Sound Structure today!

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18Aug
Why You Should Only Use a Home Inspector with An Extensive Construction Background

Why You Should Only Use a Home Inspector with An Extensive Construction Background

When you’re buying a home, it’s important to have a thorough inspection done. This ensures that you’re not inheriting any major problems. Many people choose to use a general home inspector for this task. However, if you really want to be confident that your new home is in good condition, it’s best to use someone with a background in construction.

1.Why you should only use a home inspector with an extensive construction background

A home inspector should have an extensive construction background in order to be effective. This is because they need to be able to identify potential problems with the home that could lead to expensive repairs. Furthermore, a home inspector with an extensive construction background will know what to look for in order to ensure that the home is up to code. This is important because it can help to prevent major accidents from occurring. Finally, a home inspector with an extensive construction background will be able to provide a more detailed report to the home buyer. This report will include information on the condition of the home, as well as any potential problems that could arise in the future. As a result, it is important to only use a home inspector with an extensive construction background.

2.How an experienced home inspector can help you avoid problems

Buying a home is a big investment, and it’s important to do everything you can to protect your investment. One way to do this is to hire an experienced home inspector. A home inspector can help you avoid problems by identifying potential issues before you buy the home. For example, an inspector can check for water damage, structural problems, and electrical issues. In addition, an inspector can help you negotiate for repairs or a lower price if there are problems with the home. An experienced home inspector can give you peace of mind and help you avoid costly mistakes.

3.The benefits of using a home inspector with an extensive construction background

A home inspector with an extensive construction background can provide a number of important benefits. First, they will have a thorough understanding of how homes are built and the potential problems that can arise. This knowledge can help them identify potential issues before they become serious problems. Second, they will be familiar with the latest building codes and standards. This can help to ensure that your home meets all safety requirements. Finally, their experience in the construction industry can be invaluable in negotiating repairs with contractors. If you are considering purchasing a home, be sure to use the services of a home inspector with an extensive construction background.

4.What to look for in a home inspector

When you’re buying a home, it’s important to have a home inspector take a look at the property before you finalize the purchase. A home inspector can help identify any potential problems with the home that you may not be able to see yourself. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a home inspector:

  1. Make sure the home inspector is licensed and insured. This will protect you in case anything goes wrong during the inspection process.
  2. Choose an experienced home inspector who has plenty of experience inspecting homes like the one you’re interested in purchasing. 
  3. Ask for referrals from friends or family members who have recently purchased a home.
  4. Make sure the home inspector is willing to answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have about the property.
  5. Once you’ve selected a home inspector, be sure to attend the inspection so that you can ask questions and get a better understanding of any issues that are discovered. By taking these steps, you can be confident that you’re getting the best possible home inspection for your new home purchase.

Conclusion

A home inspector with an extensive construction background can provide a number of important benefits when you are buying a home. They will have a thorough understanding of how homes are built and the potential problems that can arise. In addition, they will be familiar with the latest building codes and standards. Their experience in the construction industry can be invaluable in negotiating repairs with contractors. If you are considering purchasing a home, be sure to use the services Sound Structure Home Inspection. Our background is construction.

 

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04Aug
How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater with Proper Maintenance

How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater with Proper Maintenance

If you want your water heater to last for as long as possible, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. Just like any other appliance in your home, water heaters need to be inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. By taking some simple steps to care for your water heater, you can extend its lifespan and ensure that it continues to work properly for years to come.

 

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything.

Introduction: Why water heater maintenance is important

Water heater maintenance is important because it helps prevent water damage, mold growth, and overuse of energy. A water heater inspection should be performed at least once a year by a professional, like Sound Structure Home Inspection. This inspection will help identify any potential problems with the water heater, such as a water leak. If a water leak is found, it is important to have the water heater repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent further water damage. In addition, water heater maintenance helps to ensure that the water heater is operating efficiently. An inefficient water heater can drive up energy costs and shorten the lifespan of the water heater. By having your water heater inspected and maintained on a regular basis, you can help to prevent these problems.

What to do: Steps for properly maintaining your water heater

Maintaining your water heater is important in order to prolong its lifespan and prevent any costly repairs. Here are steps to help maintain your water heater:

– Check the temperature and pressure relief valve regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.

– Flush the tank yearly to remove any sediment that has built up.

– Inspect all electrical connections and components for any signs of damage.

– Have a professional check the unit annually to ensure it is operating efficiently.

By following these steps, you can help maintain your water heater and keep it running smoothly for many years to come.

When to do it: How often you should inspect and clean your water heater

It is important to maintain your water heater in order to prevent rust and corrosion. You should inspect your water heater at least once a year, and clean it if necessary. To clean your water heater, start by draining the tank. Then, flush the tank with a garden hose to remove any sediment that has built up. Next, use a brush and cleaning solution to scrub the inside of the tank. Finally, refill the tank with fresh water. If you have a gas water heater, be sure to follow all safety instructions when draining and flushing the tank. If you have any questions or concerns about maintaining your water heater, be sure to consult a professional.

Conclusion: Summing up the importance of water heater maintenance

A water heater is an important appliance in any home, and it is essential to keep it well-maintained. Regular maintenance will prolong the life of the water heater and prevent costly repairs. It is also important to have a professional inspect the water heater on a regular basis to ensure that it is operating safely and properly. By taking these simple steps, homeowners can rest assured that their water heater will provide years of reliable service.

How Sound Structure Home Inspection Can Help

Sound Structure Home Inspection is a professional home inspection company that offers water heater inspection and maintenance services. Our team of highly trained and experienced inspectors will thoroughly check your water heater to ensure that it is in good working condition and identify any potential problems. We will then provide you with a detailed report of our findings and recommend the best course of action to take.

 

Our water heater inspection and maintenance services are designed to help you keep your water heater in good working condition and prevent costly repairs or replacement in the future. Contact us today at (772) 626-0953 in Taquesta, Florida to schedule an inspection!

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29Jul
Should an Outbuilding Be Inspected?

Should an Outbuilding Be Inspected?

You likely know how important it is to have a home inspected before buying or selling. It provides details of potential problems and helps with accurately pricing a home. However, an area you likely don’t consider for an inspection is outbuildings. They are part of your property and can be part of an insurance policy. But do you need an inspection done? Here is what to know about an outbuilding.

What is an Outbuilding?

An outbuilding is an extension of your home designed in multiple ways. Many homeowners use these buildings as a way to have extra space for storing lawn tools or sports equipment. Others elect to use them as an external room. An outbuilding comes prefabricated or as metal structures. Whether it’s a shed, greenhouse, or another type of building, the design varies based on the need.

How Outbuilding Inspections Work

The process of doing inspections of outbuildings is relatively similar to those done for traditional homes. An inspector looks at elements such as the roof, structure, foundation, and the building’s exterior. If the outbuilding includes electrical and plumbing systems, inspectors review these as well. Inspectors also look at attics should the building have them included.

Deciding on an Inspection

Knowing what goes into an inspection of an outbuilding, do you need one if it’s on your property? Some inspectors include a review of the building as an ancillary service. Others perform inspections in addition to a regular home inspection, even if it isn’t required. Depending on where you live, local requirements require that every building on your property is inspected. Another factor to consider is how detailed the outbuilding is. If it’s relatively basic, the need for inspection is minimal. However, the more finished the building is, the higher the chances of needing an inspection.

An outbuilding is a great way to have additional space for your home. While an inspection isn’t normally thought of, scheduling one for a building ensures that it is safe for any purpose.

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15Jul
How Robots Are Used In Home Inspections

How Robots Are Used In Home Inspections

In recent years the evolution of technology has been expansive. Tasks that have been done in traditional methods are now being completed in unique ways. This is especially true in the home inspection industry. Now, inspectors use items such as drones and infrared devices to complete their inspections. Another device that is gaining popularity among home inspectors is robots. Also known as crawl bots, they provide multiple benefits for inspectors. Here is how they work and why inspectors use them.

What is Crawlspace Robots?

Also known as crawl bots or crawlers, crawlspace robots are mechanical devices that can inspect smaller spaces. They are specifically designed for crawlspaces, which are usually tight and stuffy. Inspectors may find items like exposed wiring, mold, and even animals in these spaces, giving them a reason to avoid doing so themselves if they can. This is where a robot is beneficial. It is a remote-controlled device that closely resembles an RC car. This allows inspectors to examine crawlspaces while being a safe distance from the space itself.

Benefits of Use

Using crawlspace robots offers home inspectors a number of advantages. For example, they look in every direction and send detailed videos back to the inspector. From there, they share these images with the homeowner or buyer. These robots also provide enhanced comfort for inspectors, who don’t have to move on their hands and knees in tight spaces and potentially extreme temperatures.

Features of Crawlspace Robots

A home inspection robot can vary in price and features, depending on your needs. One of the available features is the ability to control and record video directly to a smartphone. Others use a remote control and record video on the robot itself. Some robots have the option of a tether, giving inspectors the opportunity for analog video recording.

Drawbacks

There are reasons that inspectors don’t elect to use these robots, however. The biggest of these is price. Higher-end models can be expensive to purchase as well as replace. But, it is possible to build a version for inspectors with the capability to do so. Another pitfall is that robots can get stuck while moving. Whether it’s on a pipe, ledge, or other kinds of debris, any obstruction leads to problems.

A robot serves as a great tool for home inspectors to examine spaces they may have difficulty reaching. While they are an investment for the inspection company, they provide beneficial insights to give a complete picture of a home.

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01Jul
Proactive Mold Prevention Tips

Proactive Mold Prevention Tips

Homeowners know the importance of protecting it from the elements. This includes taking steps to prevent things like mold. There are multiple reasons to do everything possible to keep mold out of your home. In addition to an unsightly appearance, mold can lead to many health problems. Plus, it may result in damage to your home. Fortunately, there are steps to take to prevent it from developing and save you the trouble of needing remediation. Here are some mold prevention techniques to consider.

Keep Everything Dry

Mold loves to grow in moist environments. This makes it important to keep your home as dry as possible. Mold can flourish in any material, including furniture, clothes, and paper objects. As mold thrives at 65% humidity, it’s recommended to keep your home at 30-50%. Dehumidifiers and fans also serve as a way to keep air dry and circulated.

Cleaning Helps Mold Prevention

One of the easiest ways to prevent mold in your home is through cleaning. It’s not just about open areas, either. Regularly cleaning cabinets and closed spaces can help prevent excessive mold spread. In addition, focus on areas such as bathroom and kitchen sinks, which can be more prone to mold. Many stores carry mold and mildew cleaners if you have to clear a patch, but there are ways to make it yourself.

Consider Replacement Materials

Depending on the age of your home, elements of it may be more susceptible to mold. Should mold get in and the damage is significant, these parts will need to be replaced. There are mold-resistant materials designed to be added to your home and prevent future mold outbreaks. These include wood, insulation, caulk, sealant, and paint. While these materials help with mold prevention, they still require thorough cleaning both before and after installation.

Other Mold Prevention Options

There are other ideas you can do to ensure a mold-free environment in your home. For example, check your home HVAC system to ensure there is no mold present, including replacing air filters as needed. Also, dust and vacuum regularly. Monitoring for leaks and cracks in your home help indicate signs of potential water damage. Plus, keep excess water away from your property by keeping your gutters clean or sloping the foundation.

Mold is a problem for homeowners, especially if it is allowed to grow. By knowing ways to prevent it’s buildup, you keep your home from experiencing damage.

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17Jun
Do You Need a Chimney Inspection?

Do You Need a Chimney Inspection?

When scheduling a home inspection, an inspector will look at multiple elements of your home to determine if they are structurally sound. One of these you may not consider is a chimney inspection. It’s not surprising that it can be overlooked; while many home inspectors will look for signs it is falling apart or a potential leak, they don’t go much deeper. This is where a specialized chimney inspector comes in. But is one needed for your home? Here is the key information to consider.

Why You Need a Chimney Inspection

When you have a chimney in your home, you may not think about getting it inspected. However, there are multiple reasons that getting an inspection done can be beneficial. For starters, getting it cleaned and inspected prevents fires that can damage your home. Not cleaning the equipment in the fireplace is the leading cause of home heating fires. In addition, using your chimney results in the buildup of creosote. This residue is the collection of smoke, particles, and gases from fires burning in the chimney. The more the creosote builds up, the harder it is to remove. Finally, a chimney obstructed by materials such as sticks, leaves, or nests, prevents gas from escaping. This leads to fine particles that may enter your home and cause burning eyes, runny nose, and amplifies asthma and bronchitis.

What Is In an Inspection

Once you select a certified technician to inspect your chimney, they will first check its interior to look for potential damage. Using a camera, they examine the inside and take photos and videos to look for issues with the flue and gas lines. They also check the entire system, as smoke from your chimney can find its way to attics or basements. In addition, as the roof is connected to the flue and exterior brickwork, it is reviewed as well.

A quality chimney technician will also to determine if a structure fire occurred, which can impact the contract during the home buying and selling process. They also look for structural damage caused by previous fires. This may indicate the chimney is in need of repair or replacement. Other items an inspector review is if items are obstructing the chimney and if there is any water damage.

Proactive Maintenance Options

There are things you can do on a proactive level to keep your chimney or fireplace safe. First, make sure you read and understand instructions on your fireplace as well as specific elements. Also, use only well-seasoned, dry wood in a fireplace, and learn the best places to store wood when not used.

A chimney can be a major addition to your home, and attractive to potential buyers. By understanding how to have it inspected, you are able to keep it well-maintained and at its best performance during the colder months.

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03Jun
Lead-Based Paint and Home Inspections

Lead-Based Paint and Home Inspections

There are lots of things to consider when purchasing a home. One thing you may not think of is how the age of your home can impact its overall safety. If you have a home that was built before 1978, there is a chance it contains lead-based paint, which can lead to health concerns. While it stopped being sold to consumers that year, there could be traces of the paint still in your home. The good news is that while not all inspectors can check for this paint, there are some that can check to see if there is some left. Here is what to know about lead-based paint.

What Makes Lead-Based Paint Dangerous?

Even in lower amounts, lead can be the cause of multiple health problems. This is especially true of younger children. Symptoms of lead poisoning for younger people can include irritability, abdominal pain, and developmental difficulty. Other symptoms can appear in older adults as well. While lead paint was banned for use in 1978, it doesn’t mean that older homes don’t have it. An EPA study showed that 24% of homes built from 1960 to 1978 have lead paint in them.

How It’s Tested For

Lead-based paint can’t be identified purely by sight. However, there is a sign that can indicate that it exists. As lead paint deteriorates, it develops a pattern known as alligatoring, or looking like scales. This can be looked at on both the inside and outside of the home. This can give you an idea that lead paint is in your home, but an inspector can provide a true test. In instances where lead is suspected, an inspector uses an X-ray to go inside the paint layers through to the base wood of the wall.

Why You Should Test

If you think there is lead paint in your home, having a test done offers peace of mind. There are numerous reasons to have your home tested. The biggest is if you have family members that are most likely to be affected, such as young children. By having a test complete, you can schedule an abatement if enough of the paint is prevalent. In addition, if you plan on making renovations to your home, an inspection is helpful. Construction and repairs can disturb lead paint and cause dust that could include lead elements.

Testing your home for lead-based paint offers a number of advantages. While the number of homes that have it continues to drop, it is still beneficial for people looking to purchase an older home.

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20May
Weatherstripping Your Windows and Doors

Weatherstripping Your Windows and Doors

Homeowners know the importance of ensuring that weatherstripping is installed correctly in their homes. Doing so ensures that your home is warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Many home inspectors make checking a home’s weatherstripping a key part of the inspection process. However, it should be proactively checked by homeowners whether it was added recently or during the initial construction. Here is how it’s done and what to look for.

What Forms Are Available?

Weatherstripping comes in multiple forms for both windows and doors. One of the most popular options is in tape form. As a self-adhesive, it can be cut to various sizes and installed easily. Also available are door sweeps. These keep air from leaking out from the bottom of doors. Made from either vinyl or rubber, they are attached with either screws or adhesive tape. Finally, v-seals, which are for both doors and windows, compress to fill in gaps of air entry points.

Checking For Air Leaks

You likely are aware of the core areas where air leaks can occur. However, there are additional areas that aren’t usually thought of. It’s easy to check these areas yourself. One method is by feeling around your windows and doors for any drafts. This also gives you a sense of places in your home where you may need additional insulation. An energy auditor or home technician also performs these types of inspections.

Applying Weatherstripping

While it can be done by professionals, installing weatherstripping is a relatively straightforward process. Once you decide on the material you want to use, determine how much you need. This includes measuring the perimeters of all areas where the material will be installed. You also want to install it when the temperature is over 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and on a dry, clean surface.

Other Factors To Consider

There are other things to know before you decide on installing weatherstripping. First, the best time to replace any existing weatherstripping is when you hear, see, or feel any changes to airflow around doors and windows. Experts suggest checking it every year. Also, for doors, it should be installed on the inside or around frame grooves for best results. With windows, depending on the style, place around the window jamb or between the sash and jamb for double hung versions.

Call Us To Check Your Weatherstripping

Having your weatherstripping checked is a key part of owning a home. Whether it’s done yourself or by a professional, it provides huge benefits in terms of energy efficiency. When installed correctly, it allows you to save money and keep your home comfortable all year long.

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06May
Proactive Home Inspection Preparation

Proactive Home Inspection Preparation

Once you’ve decided to sell your home, there are numerous elements to consider for the buying process. This includes finding an agent, determining a listing price, and making sure it’s ready for presentation. An important part of this process is home inspection preparation. A solid home inspection report is key to ensuring the sale goes through. The good news is that there are steps you can take to make the inspection process goes as smoothly as possible.

Clear All Access Points

When setting up an inspection, the last thing you want is for it to be impossible for the inspector to get where they need to be. Ensure that inspectors have a clear path to necessary areas, including attics, basements, and under sinks. Experts suggest leaving 4 to 6 inches of space clean around the perimeter of your home’s exterior for access. This means removing unnecessary plants and items like trash cans.

Look at Functionality

If you know there are specific items that an inspector will review in your home, you can check their functionality before the inspection happens. This includes everything from opening windows and doors to testing all your light switches. In addition, make sure your home’s weatherstripping is intact, run fans that are in your home (both ceiling and bathroom), and check the manual and automatic garage doors.

Check for Water Damage

A home inspector will look for leaks or water damage during an inspection. Getting in front of them helps you repair them before the inspection occurs. Look for leaks in key areas, such as around faucets, toilets, and bathtubs. Also, check appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators that are prone to leaks. In terms of water damage, you want to review areas like walls, floors, or ceilings. This is to look for damage signs such as buckling, warping, or sagging.

Make Repairs Before Home Inspection

If there are issues that you can fix before the inspection, do so. From broken light bulbs to clearing clogged drains, any proactive fixes you make help the inspection process go smoothly. Other repairs you can make include fixing insulation in attics and crawl spaces, replacing cracked windows, and updating missing pieces of a roof.

Call Us For a Home Inspection

A home inspection is an important part of the home buying process. By doing proactive home inspection preparation and maintaining a checklist of tasks to do before the it occurs, you make it easy for an inspector to complete.

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