Uncategorized (Page 4)

11Oct
Why Not All Home Inspectors Are Alike

Why Not All Home Inspectors Are Alike

There are many factors that you need to consider when you are hiring a home inspector. Some people think that any inspector will do, but that is not the case. There are different types of home inspectors with different levels of experience and expertise. Sound Structure Home Inspection has inspected over 6000 homes and has over 20 years of experience in construction and maintenance management. That is why Sound Structure Home Inspection is the best choice for your inspection needs.

Here are some things that you should keep in mind when you are looking for a home inspector:

Not all home inspectors have the same qualifications.

There are many different qualifications that a home inspector can have. At Sound Structure, we believe that it should be mandatory that an inspector have worked in the trades for years and then get the certifications required to become a licensed inspector. We have numerous licenses and certifications related to inspection and construction. Certifications are just part of being a good inspector. These certifications show that the inspector has taken extra steps to improve their skills. Make sure to ask about the qualifications of the home inspector before you hire them.

Not all home inspectors have the same level of experience.

Not all home inspectors are alike because not all states have the same requirements for licensure or certification. This means that some home inspectors may have more training than others. Additionally, some home inspectors may specialize in certain types of properties, such as historic homes or new construction homes. 

When you’re choosing a home inspector, it’s important to do your research and choose someone who is qualified and has experience inspecting homes like yours. Be sure to read reviews from past clients and ask for referrals from people you trust. Even if two home inspectors have the same qualifications, they might not have the same level of experience. You should always ask how long the inspector has been working in the field. An experienced inspector will be able to spot potential problems more easily than a newer inspector.

Not all home inspectors charge the same fees.

The fees that a home inspector charges can vary depending on their qualifications and experience. Make sure to get a few quotes from different inspectors before you make your decision.

Not all home inspectors provide the same services.

Some home inspectors will only provide a basic inspection while others will offer additional services such as mold testing or radon testing. Make sure to ask about all of the services that an inspector offers before you hire them so that you know what to expect.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many factors that you need to consider when you are looking for a home inspector. Not all home inspectors are alike, so it is important that you take your time and do your research before making your decision. A good place to start is by asking for recommendations from friends or family who have recently bought a house. You can also look for online reviews from previous customers. Once you have found a few potential candidates in the Tequesta, FL area, be sure to ask about their qualifications, experience, and fees. By taking your time and doing your research, you can be sure to find an inspector who meets your needs.

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28Sep
The Most Important Things Home Inspectors Check For

The Most Important Things Home Inspectors Check For

If you are in the market for a new home, or even just considering it, you should know about the things that home inspectors look for. The most important thing is that any potential problems with the house are identified and addressed before you sign on the dotted line. By understanding what to expect from a home inspection, you can be better prepared and avoid any nasty surprises down the road. So what exactly does a home inspector look for? Read on to find out!

1. Roofing – checking for leaks, damage, and proper installation

A roof is one of the most important parts of a house, and it is important to make sure that it is in good condition. Home inspectors will often check the roof for missing shingles, leaks, and other signs of damage. They will also look at the installation of the roof to make sure that it is up to code. In some cases, they may even recommend that the roof be replaced. However, if the roof is in good condition, a home inspector will typically give it a clean bill of health.

2. Exterior walls and trim – inspecting for water damage, holes, and rotting wood

Inspecting the exterior of a house is an important part of any home inspection. This is because the exterior walls and trim are often the first places that water damage, holes, and rotting wood will appear. By checking these areas carefully, home inspectors can often identify potential problems before they become serious. To check for water damage, home inspectors will look for stains on the walls or trim. These stains can be caused by water seeping in through cracks or holes in the exterior. To check for holes and rotting wood, home inspectors will tap on the walls and trim to see if there is any give. They will also look for signs of rotting wood, such as discoloration or mushrooms growing on the surface. By checking the exterior of a house carefully, home inspectors can help to ensure that major problems are identified early on.

3. Windows and doors – looking for cracks, leaks, and improper installation/fit

Windows and doors are an important part of any home inspection. Inspectors will check for glass imperfections, cracks, leaks, and improper installation. These problems can lead to security issues, energy loss, and water damage. In addition, windows and doors are often the first places that pests will enter a home. By checking for these problems during a home inspection, you can help to protect your home from potential damage.

4. Basement – checking for moisture levels, signs of flooding or water damage, and proper insulation

A home inspector will always check a house’s basement to check moisture levels, signs of flooding, and proper insulation. A sturdy basement is essential to the stability of a house – it helps to support the weight of the upper floors and protects the home from outside elements like rain or snow. Additionally, basements can be susceptible to mold growth if they are not properly ventilated or if there is a lot of moisture present. Therefore, home inspectors need to ensure that basements are free of any moisture issues to protect the integrity of the home.

5. Electrical wiring and panels – making sure everything is up to code and safe to use

When a home inspector assesses a house’s electrical wiring and panels, they are looking to make sure that everything is up to code and safe to use. This is important not only for the safety of the occupants but also to avoid power outages and shocks. While most homes will have some form of electrical wiring, older homes may not have been updated to meet current code requirements. This can pose a serious safety hazard, as outdated wiring is more likely to overheat or short-circuit. Home inspectors will also check that all outlets and switches are properly working and that there are no frayed or exposed wires. By ensuring that a house’s electrical system is up to code, home inspectors can help to avoid power outages, shocks, and other dangerous situations.

6. Heating and cooling systems – testing functionality and ensuring they are properly sealed

A house’s heating and cooling system are one of the most important aspects that a home inspector will check. They will test the functionality of the system. They will also look for any issues with how it has been sealed. A well-sealed system is important to insulate the home and ensure an even distribution of temperature. If there are any gaps or cracks, then heat or cool air can escape, making the system less effective. The home inspector will also check to make sure that the ductwork is properly installed. This will ensure that there are no leaks. Lastly, they will confirm that a house’s heating and cooling system is up to par.  When complete, the home inspector can help give buyers peace of mind that they are making a sound investment.

Conclusion

A home inspection is a vital part of the home buying process. By hiring a professional home inspector, you can reduce the chances of future problems and possible injuries. If you are in the market for a new home, contact Sound Structure Home Inspection today to schedule your inspection. We will work diligently to ensure that your new home is safe and sound. Thanks for reading!

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12Sep
The Benefits of Home Inspections

The Benefits of Home Inspections

Home inspections are an important step in the process of buying a home. It is a way to make sure that the home you are buying is in good condition and does not have any major problems. The benefits of home inspections include confirming that the house you are looking at is indeed the one for you.

The benefits of having a home inspection

When you’re buying a home, it’s important to have a professional home inspection carried out as part of the purchase process. A home inspection is an examination of the structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. It’s a great way to have professionals evaluate the quality and worth of your home so you can get the best sale price. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or a seasoned investor, a home inspection is always worth the investment.

Why you should get a home inspection

A home inspection is an important step in the home buying or selling process. By hiring a qualified inspector, you can learn about the condition of the property and identify any potential problems. This information can be used to negotiate a better price, make repairs before listing the property, or simply be aware of any issues that may need to be addressed in the future. In addition, a home inspection can give you peace of mind knowing that you have made a sound investment. Whether you are buying or selling a home, a home inspection is an important step in the process.

The importance of home inspections

Some of the most common issues that are uncovered during home inspections include water damage, structural problems, and electrical defects. In some cases, these issues can be addressed relatively easily. However, if left unchecked, they can quickly lead to more serious problems. As a result, it is always advisable to have a professional home inspection performed before making an offer on a property. This way you can ensure your home is in the best condition when the time comes to sell or buy. 

Home inspection tips

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when selecting an inspector: First, make sure the inspector is licensed and insured. Second, ask for referrals from friends or family members who have recently purchased a home. Third, choose an inspector who has experience inspecting homes in your area. Fourth, be sure to attend the inspection so that you can ask questions and get a better understanding of the condition of the property. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you select a qualified home inspector and avoid making a costly mistake.

Conclusion

A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the process of buying or selling a home. It is a way to make sure that the home you are buying is in good condition. It also ensures it does not have any major problems. Home inspections can help give honest opinions about the structure and state of a home before purchasing. Lastly, it can also be used to negotiate with the seller on repairs or price. Call Sound Structure today to schedule a home inspection today!

 

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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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17Dec
Why a Mobile Home Inspection is Beneficial

Why a Mobile Home Inspection is Beneficial

Many homeowners know that getting their home inspected is an important step whether you are buying or selling. However, they don’t think that mobile or manufactured homes need to be inspected. The opposite of this is true. Mobile homes should be inspected just like traditionally built homes. While inspections between the two are relatively similar, there are some key differences that inspectors check more with manufactured buildings. Here is why mobile home inspections are important and what is on an inspection checklist.

How Mobile Home Inspections Are Different

As stated above, many of the items checked by inspectors for a typical house is inspected for a manufactured home. The main differences in inspections are a result of how mobile homes are built. Factory-built homes are made with different materials and fabrication methods. In addition, they are more susceptible to damage compared to traditional homes. For inspectors, this means doing extra checks on specific features that could cause a mobile home inspection to fail.

Problem Areas Inspectors Check

One of the main areas checked by mobile home inspectors is the electrical wiring. In older mobile homes, aluminum wiring is used with GFCI protection missing. In addition, the electrical meter is occasionally found away from the main structure. Other systems may be more difficult to find as well. Wiring, plumbing, and ductwork may not be visible depending on how the home was constructed. This is because the underside of a mobile home is sealed in a plastic membrane or covered in a sheathing.

If a homeowner has made additions to their manufactured home, these should also be looked at. Owners typically use additions to create extra space for their homes. The problem is that mobile homes are designed to flex. If the piers the home is built on are unstable, any additions built can separate from the main structure. This makes the home more susceptible to leaking. In addition, structural damage can occur anywhere, from incorrect installation to if there are issues with transportation.

What Else to Look For

There are additional areas that a mobile home inspector will check to ensure a home passes inspection. An example of this is windows. Many windows in mobile homes are single-pane, so it’s important to ensure they have proper insulation. If a window has a faulty seal, it can lead to condensation and temperature fluctuations. Doors are also checked to make sure they close properly. Structural issues may be indicated by doors that stick or aren’t properly aligned.

How the home is built also matters. You want to check the internal and external walls on the property. Pushing the walls ensures they are sturdy and not wobbling. Siding is also important to a well-built manufactured home. Metal siding has a higher likeliness of leaking at doors and windows compared to other siding types. Hardwood siding tends to leak at seams and joints. For homes that are double-wide, check to see if a load-bearing wall is built.

Electrical systems should also be checked. This part should be left to an inspector or electrician, due to the higher risk of fire from poorly installed outlets and panels. There are elements a homeowner can check proactively. For example, look for any hanging or damaged wires. You can also buy a receptacle tester that plugs into an outlet to check its functionality.

Questions to Ask Before a Mobile Home Inspection

Once you decide on a home inspector, you want to make sure they are qualified to correctly check a property. There are questions you should ask before hiring a contractor:

  • Are you familiar with the HUD code for mobile homes? Manufactured homes are known as “HUD-code homes”. This is because any mobile homes built after the summer of 1976 have to meet standards from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The code has been updated over the years to focus homes on being more storm-resistant and energy-efficient. Any inspector should know current HUD standards and their evolution.
  • How many mobile homes do you inspect each month? Depending on the area the home is located, the number of homes an inspector checks per year can vary. Those in rural areas will have more experience with manufactured home inspections.
  • How much do you charge? The average home inspection can range from $250 to $400. This depends on many factors, including the size of the house, how old the home is, and the length of time an inspection will take.

Having an inspection done on a manufactured home is just as important as one for a traditional home. Whether you are a buyer or seller, scheduling an inspection adds value and helps ensure your property is safe.

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03Dec
Radon Testing In Your Home

Radon Testing In Your Home

You’ve likely heard about the importance of getting a home inspection during the buying process. Whether you are a buyer or a seller, having an inspection done lets you know if there is an issue with your home, and gives you the chance to handle them before closing. Something most people don’t think about is doing a radon test. However, it is an important thing to schedule. While it can be done proactively, it’s better to get a test done by a professional. Here is what to know about radon testing and why it’s important.

What is Radon?

Before making an appointment to test your home for radon, it helps to know exactly what it is. Radon is a gas that is odorless and colorless and occurs naturally in the earth. It is released as various elements such as radium and uranium breaks down in the soil under your house. Radon can enter your home through small cracks or openings in foundations. In addition,

When kept to tiny amounts, such as in the air outdoors, radon is not a major health risk. As it builds to higher levels, however, those risks increase. This is especially true if it is allowed to build in a tightly sealed building. As a radioactive gas, radon can be very dangerous when someone is exposed to it for long periods of time. Inhaling radon at these extended levels can lead to an enhanced risk of lung cancer. According to scientists, 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer deaths are associated with radon. This makes testing for radon an essential step for both new and existing homeowners.

How Radon Testing Works

A radon test is designed to collect radon gas and radioactive particles in the air. Once a sample is collected and measured, it is used to determine the exact amount of radon in your home. Inspectors usually place a tester on the lowest level of a home. This is due to the fact that radon rises from the ground. Home versions of a radon test do exist; however, they are not recommended as they are not as accurate as a professional test.

Two types of radon tests exist: active and passive. Passive tests are designed to collect materials over a set timeframe, usually 48 hours though some can last up to a week. These tests often use charcoal canisters that are placed in your home and the charcoal absorbs any radon gas. After the timeframe ends, the can is sent to a lab for measurement. Active tests consist of a device that is continuously plugged in and constantly measures data in real-time. They have the option of being used on a short-term or long-term basis, depending on your needs. Following the test, you will receive results that will determine if you need mitigation.

Other Things to Know

Scheduling a radon test can be beneficial for both buyers and sellers. For sellers, it’s recommended by the EPA to test for radon before putting your home on the market. A passing score can be used as a positive that can be advertised in a listing. For buyers, it’s a way to achieve peace of mind knowing that your home is not in need of mitigation. If a home does need mitigation, a professional will install a radon mitigation system. While it’s impossible to completely remove radon, a mitigation system can keep its concentration to low levels. A pipe is installed underneath the soil in your house and extends upwards. An exhaust fan is attached and is designed to draw any gas towards the outside of your home.

It’s also important to note that there are conditions where you will need an additional radon test. For example, if you had a test done during the summer, you want to schedule a second one for the winter months. Radon levels can vary depending on the season. Since radon levels tend to be higher in the winter, it’s the best time to check to see if gas levels can be highly concentrated. Another time to schedule an additional test is after you’ve made changes to your home. Any structural, HVAC, or exterior change can cause a spike in radon levels, so it’s wise to check upon completion.

Radon at high levels can be a dangerous situation that can lead to serious health impacts. However, by properly testing for the gas with the help of a professional, you can reduce the risk to your home.

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19Nov
Why a Foundation Inspection is Important

Why a Foundation Inspection is Important

For people that are either buying or selling a home, scheduling a home inspection is one of the first steps taken during the purchasing process. A completed inspection ensures that there are no major defects within the home.  In addition, any issues that do appear are noted and repairs can be scheduled without major repair costs down the line. However, there is another inspection type that is just as important to schedule. Foundation inspections can help determine if the home is structurally sound. Here are the reasons getting a foundation inspection can be valuable to homeowners.

Differences Between a Home and Foundation Inspection

Before scheduling an inspection of a home’s foundation, it’s important to note what separates it from a typical home inspection. A normal home inspection is done by an inspector. These inspections mainly focus on elements such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and anything else that impacts the safety of a property. On the other hand, structural engineers handle foundation inspections. They specifically target the foundation and structural integrity of the home. A key thing to note is that these two are not usually interchangeable; some home inspectors don’t offer structural reviews and vice versa.

What a Foundation Inspection Covers

During a foundation inspection, a structural engineer will typically review both interior and exterior elements before putting together a report. For interior examinations, inspectors will first look at elevation levels of the house to ensure they are consistent. From there, an inspector looks at other elements.  These include isolated cracks to determine if they threaten foundation integrity. They also monitor load-bearing devices and support beams and see if there is prevalent mold or water damage.

From there, inspectors look at the exterior foundation. The main areas of focus for an engineer include checking drainage, irrigation, and landscaping systems. In addition, they look for any signs of damage to walls, concrete, or any other materials used during construction. Once an inspection is completed, the property owner receives a full report which lists any issues found. They also receive details of any costs and repair time associated with any known problems.

Problems to Look Out For

The best possible outcome for a foundation inspection is to have zero issues. This indicates that the home’s structure is sound. However, there are times when problems will occur, and recognizing potential trouble spots early can prevent higher repair costs as well as damage to your home. One of the most notable warning signs is when a house has sloping floors. This is due to the wooden joints in the home structure bending. While some sloping can occur naturally due to a home’s age, more expansive sloping is a problem to investigate.

Another thing to look out for is observing if the walls of a foundation look uneven. These walls can appear as bowing, bulging, or leaning. These can indicate structural problems, and if left unchecked for long periods of time, can cause substantial damage, and can even lead to collapsing walls.

Cracks in the foundation are another issue you need an inspector to look at. Typically, cracks form over time as the soil located underneath the home settles. It can be difficult to determine which kind of cracks are minor and which indicate a bigger problem. On average, those cracks that are ¼ inch are not a major issue in terms of impact on a home’s foundation. A crack that is wider than ¼ inch, however, could be an early sign of problems with the foundation.

Costs of Foundation Repair

Getting a foundation inspection has many benefits. The primary one is to avoid costly repairs as a result of significant foundation damage. While a normal inspection can average anywhere from $200 to $600, depending on location and other factors, the cost to repair a foundation that has suffered damage can greatly vary. For minor issues that only require patchwork, repairs can typically go for around $500. As the damage increases, so does the costs to fix it. Major structural damage will need to have steps taken to strengthen the foundation in addition to needed repairs. These collectively range from $4000 to $10000 when everything is factored in.

A foundation inspection may not seem like a necessity at first. However, scheduling a foundation inspection alongside a traditional home inspection can provide both buyers and sellers with peace of mind. Knowing that a home is built with structural integrity adds a level of comfort, as well as the knowledge that expensive repairs can be avoided.

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05Nov
Why You Should Get A Pool Inspection For Your Home

Why You Should Get A Pool Inspection For Your Home

A swimming pool can be a fantastic addition to any home. During the summer it can serve as a gathering place for friends and family. It can also be a personal cool-down spot in the middle of the hottest days. Many homeowners don’t think of their pool as something that needs an inspection. However, scheduling one can save you from major headaches down the line. Here are some of the primary reasons to schedule a pool inspection.

What Pool Inspectors Look For

An inspector looking at a swimming pool reviews all aspects from both the inside and the outside to check for potential problems. An inspection outside of the pool typically starts with a walk around it to look for any visible issues. From there, they check specific elements of the pool. For example, they review decks for broken drains or damaged grout. In addition, inspectors check the coping, which is the area around your pool. Doing this checks for any further grout issues such as chips or cracks. From there, exterior parts like pumps, filters, or pipes are all checked for wear and corrosion, which could cause leaks.

Examining the inside of the pool is just as important as the outside, and most pool inspectors will do thorough checks of the interior to ensure it is in peak condition. Inspectors will look at the plaster and tile to check for any leaks, as well as vinyl lining for tears and creases. They also look at external hardware with metal components such as railings or ladders for potential corrosion. Inspectors drain and clear areas such as drains and skimmers. For pools that have a lighting system installed, an inspector can review and verify that it can safely function. They check pools with electrical systems to verify necessary components are correctly installed. However, licensed electricians with pool equipment experience repair any frayed wires or any other issue.

Benefits of a Pool Inspection

Whether you are in the process of buying a home or if you’re a current owner, there are many good reasons to have a swimming pool checked by an inspector. One of the biggest benefits of this is overall safety. Homeowners avoid serious injury by having a pool that is inspected and with major issues resolved. For new home buyers, an inspection can indicate how much attention a pool needs, whether it has regular wear and tear or something more serious. In addition, homeowners have peace of mind knowing their pool is updated for safety and brought up to a regular code.

As for current homeowners, an inspection can serve as early prevention of potentially major issues. With a swimming pool, it will eventually need repairs at some point depending on how old it is. A regular inspection can catch issues sooner, which can keep the property owner from having to pay higher repair costs. It can also detect issues that are harder to see at first glances, such as slow leaks or a faulty deck.

What is the Best Frequency to Have a Pool Checked?

Depending on the age of your pool, how often you need to have your pool inspected can vary. Many experts suggest a yearly inspection of a swimming pool, which ensures that most of the hardware runs in top condition during the season. Some inspectors will offer annual reviews of specialized services as well. These include filtering and heating systems, or polls with automation and remote systems, which are repaired for insufficient water levels.

What Pool Inspections Do Not Cover

Swimming pool inspectors cover the majority of internal and external features of a pool. That said, there are some areas and conditions that they do not normally check during an inspection. For example, during bad weather, inspections do not occur due to the possibility of damage to equipment as a result of a storm. In addition, inspectors don’t test water in the pool. A pool specialist handles this or a homeowner does it manually. The sustainability for external accessories such as a diving board or a slide. Equipment that is already damaged or not working properly is also not tested.

The key to having a working swimming pool that is ready for use during the peak of summer is regular maintenance and review to make sure that all parts are working properly. By scheduling an inspection, new and existing homeowners can ensure that their pool is safe, secure, and ready for the season, all without major repair bills.

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