Author: Rose Drake

Revitalize Your Home With House Painting

Rose Drake Home Improvement , , , ,

house painting

Revitalizing your home with a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most cost-effective home improvement projects. It can transform your house into a more comfortable and appealing space. An experienced house painter loads the roller thoroughly and slowly twirls it as they roll it toward the middle of the wall (or up to the ceiling). This will set the paint and prevent it from dripping off.

Whether you’re planning to sell your home or want to improve its appearance, curb appeal is an important consideration. This broad term describes a property’s attractiveness from the sidewalk, including landscaping, house painting and decorative elements. According to some research at home improvements boosting your home’s curb appeal can increase its value by up to 7%.

Often, real estate agents stress the importance of a property’s curb appeal when listing it for sale. A drab exterior can make it difficult for prospective buyers to picture themselves living in the home, and it may cause them to lose interest. However, a well-maintained lawn, brightly painted trim and a welcoming front porch can set a positive first impression.

While the value of a property can be determined by its location, layout and renovations, many people underestimate the impact of curb appeal on how attractive and well-maintained a home is. A few relatively inexpensive tasks or improvements can significantly boost a home’s curb appeal, such as adding a fresh coat of paint, cleaning up landscaping and replacing outdated light fixtures or numbers on a mailbox.

Painting your home a new color can transform its look, but before you start any DIY projects, check with your neighborhood’s homeowner association to ensure that the colors you choose are acceptable. In some neighborhoods, the color palette is very strict, and you don’t want to risk losing your home’s resale value by choosing a color that doesn’t fit in with the rest of the community.

Curb appeal can also include other cosmetic upgrades, such as a freshly planted tree or a reworked entryway design. The addition of a large planter box filled with colorful flowers adds a welcoming touch to an entryway, while a neatly trimmed hedge or flowerbed can enhance a walkway or front yard.

While the term “curb appeal” can sound like a buzzword, making your home’s exterior attractive is an important part of the home improvement process. It will make it easier to attract potential buyers, and can help you avoid costly repairs or renovations in the future.

Interior Decorating

Interior painting is a popular way to revamp living spaces and enhance aesthetics. Homeowners may decide to take on a DIY house painting project or hire professional services. Regardless of the type of project, choosing the right paint is critical to ensuring that the final result will be long-lasting and durable. It’s also important to understand how trends and color choices affect the painting process.

When choosing colors for the walls in your home, it’s essential to consider how the color will complement existing furnishings and fit into your design vision. A good place to start is by using home design apps that can provide inspiration and help you find a color that suits your personality and home decor.

While the tools and methods of modern day painting may seem to be highly advanced, the practice itself is quite ancient. Evidence of painted stonework dates back tens of thousands of years, and this early practice was likely used to brighten up living spaces and protect the stone from weather damage.

People continued to innovate how they made paint, developing exciting new shades and improving the application process. This led to the rise of professional house painters in Europe, who formed guilds in the 1200s. Today, house painting is a thriving profession that provides many people with full-time employment and self-employment opportunities.

One of the most important parts of a quality house painting job is proper prep work. Preparation can vary by job, but usually includes sanding and scraping the surface. It’s also a good idea to prime the surface before applying paint. This step can prevent the surface from absorbing too much of the liquid and causing bubbling.

It’s recommended that you repaint your home regularly, especially if it is exposed to harsh weather conditions. A fresh coat of exterior house paint will not only make your home look better, but it will also protect the wood from rot and insect infestation.

While DIY projects can be an affordable option, it’s generally recommended to leave the task of painting your home to the professionals. Hiring a professional house painter will guarantee that the results are of high quality and last for a long time. In addition, professionals have the experience and equipment needed to tackle tough tasks like high ceilings and tight corners.

Mold Prevention

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in wet areas. It’s common in nature, and we see it in things like decaying leaves, grass clippings, and even food in the refrigerator. But, if certain types of mold get into your home and grow out of control, they can pose health risks to you and your family. They can also damage your home, lowering its resale value and making it harder to sell.

Mold prevention is a critical part of the house painting process. Mold can be a serious problem and can cause a variety of respiratory problems for those with allergies. There are several ways to avoid it, including regular cleaning and inspections and adding mold inhibitors to paint.

The best way to prevent mold is to keep moisture levels low. You can use a dehumidifier or air conditioning to help reduce humidity, and make sure any areas that are damp are fully cleaned and dried out. It’s also a good idea to inspect any parts of your home that have experienced water damage, as leaky roofs and broken pipes can boost humidity levels and foster mold growth.

When it comes to cleaning, bleach is the most effective solution for removing mold from hard surfaces. But, it’s important to use a fresh bottle of bleach prior to cleanup, as it degrades quickly in an unopened container. Other cleaning solutions include hydrogen peroxide, which works well on most surfaces but shouldn’t be used in the shower or around any appliances that may release fumes.

Ventilation is also crucial for preventing mold, so open windows and doors to allow for proper airflow. If possible, add fans to rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens that are more prone to condensation, as these can speed up the drying process.

To avoid future mold growth, regularly check your home’s temperature and humidity levels with a hygrometer. Keep these levels as close to 50% as possible, and repair any areas that are higher than this. Similarly, add mold inhibitors to paints before you start painting any walls. These can be purchased at most home improvement and paint stores.

Safety

When painting your home, it is important to remember safety. Whether you are an experienced professional or a DIYer, there are certain risks associated with this home improvement process. Proper preparation and safety equipment can help reduce these risks and ensure the job is completed without incident.

Ladders are a common tool for house painters, but they can be dangerous. Falling from a ladder can cause serious injuries. It is important to follow ladder safety procedures and always have someone watch you when working at heights. Moreover, it is important to practice good housekeeping on the jobsite and remove any items that could be tripped over or obstructed while working.

The chemicals in paints and other coating materials can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. They are also flammable. Proper ventilation is vital to keep toxic vapors from building up in the air. Opening windows and using fans can help to circulate the air, but it is best to use a respirator when spraying or painting indoors. It is also a good idea to wear goggles and gloves while working with these products.

Paint fumes can be especially dangerous for those who are sensitive to odors, pregnant women or babies. They can also lead to dizziness or nausea for some individuals. When painting inside, it is best to choose low VOC products and work during mild weather so doors and windows can be kept open to prevent heat or cold stress.

It is also important to test for lead before sanding or scraping. Lead paints were banned from residential use in 1978, but older homes may still contain them. Using a test kit can allow you to detect and remove any lead before it becomes a hazard. Additionally, it is a good idea to use a face mask when sanding or scraping, and to keep any paints, solvents, or stain strippers away from gas appliances.

How Much Does Insulation Removal Cost?

Rose Drake Insulation , , , , ,
insulation

Insulation removal may be necessary for various reasons, including pest infestation, mold growth, water damage, and more. Damaged insulation can affect energy efficiency and lead to health issues if contaminated with rodent droppings or urine. Professional Perth Insulation Remover is trained in safety protocols and can help minimize cost by safely removing insulation materials for you. The insulation removal cost can vary significantly depending on the type of insulation and attic size.

Labor

insulationInsulation removal can be a complex and time-consuming process. It requires special equipment and knowledge to do it properly. This is why many homeowners choose to hire professional insulation removal services. This can save them a lot of time and energy. In addition, it ensures that the job is done correctly and safely.

If there are any hazards in the insulation, such as mold or asbestos, professionals must take extra precautions and may need to quarantine your home for a designated period of time. Additionally, if the insulation contains rodent droppings or urine, the contaminant must be removed and the attic must be cleaned before new insulation can be installed.

The preferred method of removing insulation is by machine. Professionals use a vacuum system that uses a hose to suck up the insulation from the attic. This process is much faster and more efficient than bagging and removing the insulation by hand. It also prevents airborne contaminants from being reintroduced into the home during the removal process.

If the insulation is contaminated with hazardous materials, it must be removed and replaced by professionals. This is often the case when there are signs of mold or rodent droppings. If left unchecked, these contaminants can lead to health problems and poor energy efficiency.

For homeowners who prefer to remove the insulation themselves, a DIY approach can be a cost-effective option. However, it is important to understand that this can be a messy and dangerous project. It is essential to take proper safety precautions and wear appropriate protective gear, including rubber-coated gloves, a mask, or respirator, and goggles. It is also necessary to cover the floors and walls of the attic with a protective covering.

It is also a good idea to purchase a commercial-grade insulation removal vacuum and a ladder. In addition, you should have a HEPA-filtered Shop-Vac and 50-gallon waste bags, as well as a rake and dustpan for cleaning up the mess after the removal process is complete. Homeowners should also make sure they have a suitable place to dispose of the old insulation, such as a large dumpster or local recycling center.

Equipment

Insulation is an important part of a home’s structure. It helps keep the interior of the home comfortable, reduces energy bills, and adds to the resale value of the property. It can also help to control pests and mold. However, over time insulation can lose its effectiveness and need to be replaced. This is especially true for older homes that may have rodent infestations or significant contamination. When replacing insulation, the old insulation must first be removed to allow for a clean and proper installation. This is an arduous and time-consuming process. The cost of this step will vary depending on the type of insulation being installed and how damaged or infested the existing insulation is.

The removal of old insulation can be done either by hand or by machine. Hand removal is typically done for batt insulation, a type of rolled insulation made of fiberglass. Machine removal involves using a vacuum to suck the insulation out of the attic and into a machine that shreds it. The resulting waste is then deposited into a dumpster outside the house.

For this process, a commercial-grade insulation removal vacuum must be used. These vacuums are gas-powered and typically come with around 150 feet of hose to reach from the attic to the outside of the home. If the vacuum is not professional-grade, it can quickly clog, adding to the overall cost of the project.

Other equipment that is often required for this process includes a ladder, a pair of work gloves, a respirator mask, and a dustpan. The respirator mask is essential because it will protect the lungs from airborne particles of mold and other toxins. The pair of work gloves will prevent the hands from becoming irritated and itchy during the removal process. A dustpan is also used to remove any remaining debris that is unable to be sucked out of the attic.

In addition to the equipment, other factors that can add to the overall cost of an insulation removal are obstacles and hazards in the attic that will need to be navigated or removed prior to removing the insulation. These may include ductwork, wiring, or other structural elements. It is also possible that the insulation is contaminated by animal droppings or other hazardous materials. These contaminants can be stirred up by the vacuuming process, releasing toxins into the home.

Materials

Insulation is made of a variety of materials, including fiberglass, cellulose and mineral wool. Fiberglass insulation is commonly used in blown-in and roll/batt type formats, while cellulose and mineral wool are commonly found in rigid board and duct insulation forms. Other types of insulation include spray foam, which can be installed over the existing material or used in gaps and crevices to create an air seal. The type of insulation your home needs will depend on your climate, the R-value you require and any other insulation needs that may exist (e.g., a vapor barrier or soundproofing).

The cost of the materials you need to purchase to remove your old insulation will vary depending on the type you choose, whether you opt for DIY or hire professionals to handle it, and the size of your attic. In general, you will need a ladder, a commercial-grade insulation removal vacuum and an assortment of supplies for the job, such as commercial waste bags, HEPA filter shop vac, 50-gallon garbage bags, rakes, dustpans, and a hose with a large attachment for reaching hard to reach areas. A pair of rubber-coated gloves and a respirator or surgical mask are also recommended to protect yourself from the toxins released during insulation removal.

While removing your own insulation, it is also a good idea to spread plastic sheeting in the attic space over things like wires and ductwork, so that these items are not disturbed. If you decide to partner with professionals for your insulation removal, they will have the necessary equipment and safety gear.

Over time, your home’s attic insulation may lose its even distribution due to home service providers working in the attic, or from animals living in the space and stomping down parts of the attic. This can lead to thicker and thinner areas in the attic, as well as pockets of moisture that are not conducive to the blown-in or vacuuming method of removing insulation. The attic must also be clear of obstructions that can interfere with the vacuuming process, such as slats and nails from previous roofing or other home construction projects. In some cases, insulation may be contaminated by mold or other dangerous substances that will add to the overall removal and disposal costs.

Additional Services

If the attic insulation is damaged or contaminated, you may need to hire professionals for remediation services. These services include removing and disposing of mold, rodents, and other pests that can contaminate your home’s environment. These contaminants can affect the health and safety of your family, so they must be removed and disposed of properly. These additional costs can significantly increase the overall cost of attic insulation removal.

Before the contractors arrive, you can save money by preparing the attic yourself. This includes covering the attic access door, creating a clear pathway to the attic and removing items that could be in the way of the workers. You can also save money by bringing your own tools, equipment, and supplies to the job site.

Insulation removal is a demanding DIY project, and it’s important to consider the costs of labor and equipment rental. Obtaining quotes from several companies can help you determine how much the project will cost and which contractor offers the best value. You should also compare the types of services offered by each company, including whether they offer bundled packages or discounts for multiple projects.

Professional attic insulation removal is typically more expensive than DIY removal, but it’s well worth the investment to ensure the job is completed properly and safely. These professionals have the experience, specialized equipment and expertise to remove the insulation in an efficient manner. They can also prevent damage to the attic and other parts of your home, which can result in higher energy bills.

When hiring an insulation removal service, you should consider whether the company offers a warranty or guarantee on its work. A guarantee will give you peace of mind that the company stands behind its work and will fix any problems with the installation. A warranty should also cover the labor and material cost of removing the old insulation and installing new insulation.

 

Why Air Conditioning Repair Is Necessary

Rose Drake HVAC , , , , ,
hvac

During hot weather, air conditioning technicians often charge emergency fees. This ensures they can service a home’s AC unit promptly. Many problems can be prevented by keeping up with maintenance appointments. This will save you repair costs and replacement expenses. Here are a few common reasons you might need air conditioning repair: clogged filters, leaking evaporator coils, or inefficient cooling cycles. Contact Comfort Pro’s Heat And Air professionals for appointments today.hvac

Dirty Evaporator Coil: The evaporator coil of your air conditioning system is a vital part of the cooling process. It absorbs heat from the circulating air in your home and transfers it to another location, but it can suffer from a host of issues when routine AC maintenance is overlooked.

Dirty evaporator coils can be relatively easy to miss, especially since they often do not show any obvious signs or symptoms until the AC is working harder than normal to meet your cooling demands. However, if you do pay attention to your bills, you may be able to catch this problem early on, which can save you money in the long run.

A dirty evaporator coil will reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner, and it can even result in a buildup of frost. The ice can block the transfer of heat and stop the evaporator coil from functioning. If you do notice that the evaporator coil is covered in frost, turn off the air conditioning and call for an AC repair service immediately.

In addition, a dirty evaporator coil can increase the amount of moisture in the air. This can lead to mold and mildew, which will damage your AC unit and cause the evaporator coil to break down.

You can prevent dirt and debris from getting into the evaporator coil by cleaning it regularly with an air hose. You should also trim the surrounding shrubs and foliage to allow adequate airflow. In addition, it is a good idea to periodically “comb” the aluminum fins with a metal comb to keep them from becoming bent, which can impede airflow and slow the rate at which heat is absorbed.

Dirty Compressor Coil: The evaporator coil absorbs heat from the air that blows through your home to cool it, while the condenser coil releases absorbed heat back into the outdoors. Both coils need to be free of dirt and debris buildup to function properly.

Dirty evaporator coils can cause your system to overwork, causing increased energy bills, wear-and-tear on other AC parts, and a shortening of the unit’s lifespan. You may also notice that your home isn’t as cool as it used to be if the coils are dirty.

A dirty compressor coil is another major reason to call an HVAC professional for AC maintenance. Both coils need to be clean for your system to run efficiently, but the evaporator coil is especially important since it’s where heat is absorbed from the air.

Your dealer will carefully remove the outer casing and top of your air conditioner to expose the evaporator coils. If necessary, he or she will use a shop vac to remove loose dirt and debris from the surface of the coils. He or she will then use a fin-straightening tool to straighten any bent coil fins.

Once the coils are clean, your dealer will use a special coating to ensure that any remaining dust and debris doesn’t return to the coils in the future. He or she will also inspect the entire unit to make sure that it’s operating properly, including ensuring that it’s in a well-ventilated area and has adequate space around it. This is particularly important as some plants, bushes, or debris can block the airflow to and from the unit. Contact your local HVAC dealer if you’re interested in having your evaporator and condenser coils cleaned or for more information about AC maintenance services.

Low Coolant Levels: Most gas, diesel, and hybrid engines generate a significant amount of heat when in operation. A portion of this is channeled into the air conditioner to cool your car, while the remainder must be managed in some other way or your engine will overheat and stop working. The cooling system is responsible for keeping the temperature under control, and one of its essential components is coolant. If your coolant levels are low, it will not be able to transfer as much heat from the engine, and you may notice the temperature gauge in the instrument cluster rising higher than normal.

Coolant is a clear liquid, so it’s easy to tell when the level is dropping. However, it can be hard to determine the correct level of coolant in your vehicle, especially if you have an older model. Some vehicles have a coolant level sensor that will warn you when the fluid is getting low, but not all do. The best way to check the coolant level is to open the hood and look in the reservoir.

In addition to affecting the cooling of your engine, low coolant levels can affect your AC system. A low coolant level means there will not be enough refrigerant to absorb as much heat from the compressor during each cooling cycle, so it will run longer and not be as effective. This can also cause the evaporator coil to become frosty and have to be replaced. Make sure to always use a certified air conditioning repair professional to work with refrigerants, as these chemicals are ozone-depleting and require special care when handling. The right professional will be able to recharge the air conditioning system with the proper amount of coolant, and they will inspect the system for any other issues as well.

Faulty Thermostat: One of the most common problems with air conditioning is a faulty thermostat. This can lead to the system constantly running and not cooling. You can do a few things to prevent this from happening. First, make sure the batteries are not dead. You can also check to see if the settings are correct. Lastly, clean the thermostat. This can help prevent dirt and dust from building up. If you still have no luck, call in a professional. A professional will have the tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix the problem quickly.

Another sign that your thermostat is faulty is that it isn’t turning off when the room temperature reaches the set point. A new thermostat can fix this by sending the correct signals to your air conditioner.

A dirty thermostat can also cause issues with your air conditioner. When a thermostat becomes dirty, it can’t sense the actual temperature of the room. This leads to it cycling on and off. Oftentimes, this cycle can cause the system to overheat and damage other components.

You can prevent your thermostat from becoming dirty by cleaning it regularly. You can use canned air or a soft artist brush to remove dust from the cover. You should also change the batteries in your thermostat regularly. This is a simple task that can take just minutes. Doing this on a routine basis will help you avoid a battery failure. It’s also a good idea to have a technician test the wiring connections on your thermostat regularly. This can catch problems early and prevent expensive repairs. It’s always best to hire a professional because they have the tools and knowledge necessary to repair your thermostat quickly and effectively.

Warm Air: If your AC is blowing warm air it means the system has a refrigerant leak or it’s simply worn out. This is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. A professional can repair or replace the compressor, evaporator coil, or condenser coil to solve this issue. Depending on the cause of the refrigerant leak, the technician may be able to repair it and recharge your system with a new Freon.

Another reason your AC may be blowing warm air is that the ductwork is damaged or clogged. A professional can inspect and clean the ductwork to remove any debris or obstructions that are preventing cool air from entering your home.

Your thermostat may be set to ON instead of COOL, or it’s been bumped or changed by someone else. This can cause your air conditioner to run constantly, even if it’s not cooling the house. Make sure the thermostat is set to COOL and that the fan settings are set to AUTO.

Older systems rely on the refrigerant Freon, which is now a banned chemical that depletes protective ozone in the atmosphere. These chemicals are being phased out and replaced with HCFCs that are less harmful to the environment. If your air conditioning system is older than 10 years or if it needs frequent repairs, you should consider replacing it with an energy-efficient model.

The best way to keep your air conditioner in tip-top shape is to have it serviced once a year by a certified professional. Having a well-maintained AC unit will extend its lifespan and help you avoid costly air conditioning repairs in the future.

 

 

What to Expect From a Home Inspection

Rose Drake Home Inspection , , , ,
Home Inspection

Before hiring a home inspector, ask friends and family members for recommendations. Also, compare their prices and online reviews. Home Inspection Colorado Springs is a noninvasive visual examination of a house or condo’s physical structure and systems. It’s a critical step in home-buying that can save you money and hassle later.

Home InspectionHaving a home inspected is vital before putting it on the market, whether you are selling an existing property or building a new one. While some problems are cosmetic, others may indicate severe structural damage and need to be fixed in order for the house to be safe for inhabitants.

A home inspector will assess the structure of the building from the foundation up, including walls, ceilings, floors, and other features. They are looking for issues like uneven and bowing walls caused by movements in the foundation, which can be an indicator of severe structural damage. Uneven wall surfaces are often accompanied by cracks and gaps, which can also be signs of severe structural issues.

In some cases, the home inspector will recommend that a professional structural engineer examine the property. This is usually because the damage is extensive and requires a detailed load-bearing assessment, which a professional engineer can provide. If the structural inspection indicates that there are major problems, a professional engineer will typically suggest that a licensed contractor or home inspector conduct further assessments and repairs.

When preparing for a home inspection, homeowners should ensure that all utilities are turned on and that the attic and basement are clear of clutter. This will make it easier for the inspector to access the areas they need to inspect. They should also leave a clear path to the HVAC and furnace so that they can be tested. Providing the home inspector with a clean path will help them provide a more accurate report and will also help them save time and money on the inspection. This will make it possible to complete the inspection and make a sale on the property in a timely manner.

Home inspectors will test light switches and outlets, look at the electrical panel and visible wiring. They’ll be looking to see if there are enough outlets in each room, if the wiring is up to code and whether or not there are GFCI outlets, which help prevent electrical fires in rooms that might come into contact with water (kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms). If they see anything out of the ordinary, they’ll flag it. Older homes may have DIY electrical projects that aren’t up to code, and a home inspector will be able to identify these for future buyers.

GFCIs are required by law in any room where electricity might be in contact with water, and if they’re not working correctly it could lead to a dangerous power surge or even a fire. They’ll also look at the sink and bathtub faucets for leaks, check the vents in the ceiling to see if there are any stains or moisture damage, and inspect the pressure relief valve on the water heater for proper operation.

It’s a good idea to attend your inspection so that you can see the inspector at work and ask questions. This will make the whole process go a lot smoother, and you’ll have a better idea of how serious any issues are so that you can bring them up to the seller and ask for them to be fixed before closing.

Of course, a home inspector can’t catch every little problem, and most are not electricians, so they will likely flag any issue that they aren’t qualified to fix and defer to an electrician for further investigation. This is another reason why a pre-listing home inspection is becoming more popular, as it gives you an opportunity to fix any underlying problems before they become deal killers.

Home Inspectors are often called upon to examine plumbing in homes. This includes inspecting fixtures, supply lines and drains in the basement, bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, water heater, sewage systems, and more. This part of the inspection is critical to ensure a functioning plumbing system and can help prevent future emergencies, such as a burst pipe or a clogged sink.

Most inspectors will also check for signs of water damage in the basement, including musty odors, mildew and mold growth, and damaged floors or walls. This can be caused by a variety of issues, from simple leaks to severe flooding. The home inspector will note these conditions and provide recommendations on how to correct the problem.

A plumbing inspection can be useful for anyone thinking of buying a property. A faulty plumbing system can be very costly, and it is worth investing in an inspection before making a final decision. This will give the buyer an idea of what the cost would be to repair the plumbing, and may even make them reconsider the purchase altogether if the repairs are too expensive.

A home inspection is a limited, noninvasive examination of the condition of a house, usually conducted in connection with the sale of that house. It does not guarantee the future condition, efficiency or safety of the house. It is important to remember that a home inspection should not be confused with a home appraisal, which determines the value of the property. A professional association of home inspectors, such as InterNACHI or the American Society of Home Inspectors, can provide a list of qualified home inspectors in your area. This will help you find an inspector who is competent and has good credentials.

Many homeowners don’t make it a habit of going into their attic, but that is one of the places that home inspectors go to during a home inspection. There are several things that an inspector will be looking for in the attic, including water damage, insulation, and even the structural integrity of the roof.

An inspector will look at the attic for signs of moisture, mold, and rot. Moisture can lead to wood rot and rust on metal fixtures. It can also cause mold and mildew which can be unhealthy for occupants. In addition, excessive moisture in the attic can cause damage to the rafters and ceiling below it, leading to expensive repairs.

Insulation in the attic is a big deal. It helps to lower energy bills because it keeps the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. If there is not enough insulation in the attic, it will be noticeable on the house’s energy bills.

A home inspector will also check the attic framing and roof sheathing to see if it is sturdy. This will help determine if the framing is adequate to support the roof and protect the house from high winds.

An inspector will also examine the electrical system in the attic. This will include checking the main service panel, power outlets, branch circuit wiring and light fixture circuit wiring. The inspector will not open any panels or dismantle any devices, but he or she will observe their condition and operation. The inspector will also be looking for grounding, GFCIs and the compatibility of amperage and voltage ratings. In addition, he or she will be looking for the presence of aluminum branch circuit wiring.

Many home inspectors will find it a challenge to inspect crawl spaces, especially if they are un-insulated or covered by other storage. However, a well-equipped and experienced home inspector will make every reasonable attempt to gain access while communicating with the client. If a space is completely inaccessible then it should be saved for a later inspection and the client should be informed of this.

Regardless of whether a crawl space is insulated, it should be properly ventilated to control humidity. This helps to prevent wood rot, mold growth and fungus. It’s also a good idea to use a dehumidifier in the crawl space and to replace any insulation that has been damaged over time. This helps to reduce energy costs by preventing heat loss through the floor and ceiling.

Some of the most common issues found in crawl spaces include water damage, sagging floors, contaminated insulation, mold growth and rodent activity (which can lead to significant structural damage). Inspectors should be looking for signs of moisture on the soil/floor/vapor barrier, potential mold growth, rotting of joists/beams, efflorescence, and rust staining of furnace, water heaters or steel structural components.

A professional home inspector can identify these problems early and prevent costly repairs in the future. This is a major reason why real estate agents often require a home inspection prior to selling a property. A crawl space inspection can help homeowners understand how much repair work will be needed and allow them to negotiate a price that takes this into account. Also, if an inspector finds significant problems that will be expensive to repair, they can recommend the homeowner address these issues before closing on the property. This can save both parties a great deal of time and money.