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What Home Inspectors Look for in Roofs, Plumbing, and Electrical Systems

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When buying or selling a home, one of the most critical steps in the process is the home inspection. A certified home inspector examines the property from top to bottom, ensuring the major systems are functioning properly and identifying potential safety hazards. Among the most important areas inspected are the roof, plumbing, and electrical systems. These three areas can significantly impact a home’s value, safety, and future maintenance costs.

In this article, we’ll break down exactly what home inspectors look for in roofing, plumbing, and electrical systems, so you know what to expect and how to prepare.

Roof Inspections: Protecting the Home from Above

The roof is your home’s first line of defense against weather damage. During a roof inspection, the home inspector evaluates the entire roofing system for signs of wear, damage, and structural issues. Here’s what they typically check:

1. Roof Covering and Materials

  • Inspectors examine the shingles, tiles, or metal panels for cracking, curling, missing pieces, or rust.
  • They check for signs of improper installation or patchwork repairs.
  • Common defects include aging shingles, granular loss, and exposed underlayment.

2. Flashing and Penetrations

  • Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is examined for rust, gaps, or deterioration.
  • Poor flashing can lead to roof leaks and moisture intrusion.

3. Roof Drainage

  • Gutters and downspouts are evaluated for clogging, sagging, and improper slope.
  • Inspectors ensure that water is being directed away from the foundation.

4. Structural Integrity

  • The roof’s structure, including the decking, rafters, and trusses, is visually inspected (when accessible) for sagging, rot, or signs of leaks.
  • Attics are often checked for water stains or daylight penetration.

Plumbing Inspections: Ensuring Safe Water Flow

The plumbing system is responsible for supplying clean water and removing waste efficiently. A plumbing issue can quickly turn into a costly and unsanitary problem. During a home inspection, the plumbing system is thoroughly reviewed:

1. Water Supply and Pressure

  • Inspectors test faucets, showers, and toilets to evaluate water pressure and flow.
  • They check for leaks under sinks, behind toilets, and around appliances.

2. Pipe Material and Condition

  • The inspector identifies the type of piping (copper, PEX, galvanized steel, etc.) and notes any signs of corrosion, leaks, or damage.
  • Galvanized pipes, for example, are prone to rust and may need replacement.

3. Drainage and Waste Systems

  • Inspectors test drains in sinks, tubs, and showers to ensure proper drainage.
  • They check for signs of slow drainage or gurgling, which can indicate a clogged or poorly vented system.

4. Water Heater

  • The water heater is examined for age, condition, and proper installation.
  • Inspectors check for leaks, rust on the tank, and a working pressure relief valve.

5. Sump Pump (if present)

  • Inspectors will check the operation of the sump pump, especially in basements prone to water intrusion.

Electrical Inspections: Keeping Your Home Safe from Shock or Fire

The electrical system powers your entire home and must meet current safety standards. Faulty electrical wiring is a leading cause of house fires, so this part of the inspection is crucial.

1. Main Electrical Panel

  • Inspectors open the electrical panel to check for labeling, condition, and signs of overheating or corrosion.
  • They verify the panel has enough capacity to support the home’s electrical load.

2. Wiring Type and Condition

  • The inspector identifies wiring types (e.g., aluminum, copper, knob-and-tube) and checks for frayed wires, exposed connections, or amateur modifications.
  • Aluminum wiring in older homes can be a fire hazard if not properly maintained.

3. GFCI and AFCI Protection

  • Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are tested in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and bedrooms for safety.
  • Missing or non-functioning GFCIs are flagged for correction.

4. Outlets, Switches, and Fixtures

  • Inspectors test a sample of outlets and switches throughout the home.
  • They ensure outlets are grounded and properly secured, and that light fixtures function as expected.

5. Visible Electrical Hazards

  • Any exposed wiring, improperly installed fixtures, or unsafe DIY repairs are noted in the inspection report.

Conclusion: Why These Systems Matter

Understanding what home inspectors look for in roofs, plumbing, and electrical systems helps buyers, sellers, and homeowners stay proactive. These critical systems affect not only the safety and functionality of a home but also its resale value and potential repair costs.

If you’re preparing for a home sale or purchase, or just want to ensure your home is in top condition, scheduling a professional home inspection is the best step forward. Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a costly problem—know what’s going on above your head, behind your walls, and beneath your floors.

Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill

Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill

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How to Save Money on Utilities this Summer

You may be enjoying the great outdoors this summer, but your home still needs to be a cool escape from the summer heat. While blasting the A/C inside keeps your home cool, it can also be expensive. Read on for a few easy, affordable ways you can lower your energy bill this summer while ensuring your home remains comfortable.

Seal windows and doors 

Windows and doors are the entryways to your home, so they’re the first point where cool air can escape and hot air can enter. To help reduce your energy bill, check the seals on windows and doors to ensure they’re in good shape, and re-caulk or seal any areas that may have degraded over time. 

Use blackout shades or heavy curtains on windows

In addition to sealing windows and doors, another way to lower your energy bill is by limiting the amount of heat that enters the home. Because sunlight streaming in through a window can heat up a room, make sure that you use blackout shades or heavy curtains to limit the amount of sunlight that comes in through the windows. 

Use ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can help you make the most of the cool air that your HVAC is delivering. You can create a downdraft of cool air by programming ceiling fans to turn counterclockwise. If you use your ceiling fan wisely, you can decrease the intensity of your A/C output. 

Upgrade your thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat is a great way to lower your energy bills. You can choose a specific temperature that you’d like to keep your home at, and set the A/C to run less while you’re not at home. Many newer thermostat systems allow you to adjust temperatures remotely via an app, so you can program the A/C to start cooling your home just before your return from work!

Rethink your lighting

Upgrading your light bulbs and turning off unnecessary lighting can reduce your energy costs. Be sure to turn off all lights before leaving a room, going to bed at night, or leaving the house. It may also be a good idea to power down electronics that aren’t being used at nighttime. You can also consider installing new LED bulbs, which can be 80% more efficient than traditional light bulbs. 

HVAC maintenance

A well-maintained HVAC system will run more efficiently and cost you less money. To ensure your HVAC system is in good condition, be sure to replace air filters regularly so that cold air can get pushed through your home without obstructions. 

Lower water heater temperature

Lowering your water heater temperature is a lesser known way to lower your energy bill, but when used along with the methods mentioned above, you may be able to see the difference in your monthly energy usage. Most water heaters are programmed to 140℉, but you won’t feel the difference if you lower it to 120℉. According to the EPA, lowering your water temperature may amount to as much as $400 in savings over the course of a year. 

Looking for more summer home maintenance tips? Call South Sound Inspections for professional advice today!

Things People Try To Hide From Home Inspectors

Things People Try To Hide From Home Inspectors

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A typical home inspection involves an objective assessment of a home’s many systems, including the roof, plumbing, electrical, foundation and basement, and HVAC.  While home sellers in Washington state are required to disclose maintenance issues, home inspectors cannot assess every single nook and cranny of a home. And unfortunately, some unscrupulous home sellers can attempt to cover up issues to mislead buyers. Here’s an explanation of how home sellers may try to hide issues and a list of the most common problems they try to hide.

How Do Home Sellers Hide Repair Problems from Potential Buyers?

Home inspectors cannot enter rooms or areas of a home that are obstructed or locked. Home sellers can take advantage of this by blocking off or locking rooms that have repair or maintenance issues. Inspectors also cannot move heavy furniture, so if a couch or bookshelf is standing on a section of flooring in poor condition, it may be missed during inspection. While inspectors use tools and technology like thermal imaging cameras, most home inspections are based on visual observations. 

Roof Issues 

The American Society of Home Inspectors does not specify how roof inspections should be performed, so home inspectors are tasked with “observing” the roof, which they may do with the help of a drone camera rather than climbing up a ladder. This can make it easy for home sellers to hide roof issues. If a home seller used roofing sealant as a cheap fix rather than making quality repairs to roof flashings, vents, and chimneys, a home inspector may not spot these cover-ups. 

Mold

Mold is usually easy to identify simply based on smell, but some home sellers try to cover this up. If you enter a home and notice lit scented candles, open windows, and the smell of air freshener, it’s possible that the home seller may be trying to cover up mold. An inspector may be able to identify mold based on moisture readings with a thermal imaging camera, but the candles and air fresheners are one way home sellers attempt to cover up mold issues. 

Window Problems

Windows can be a very expensive item to repair or replace, so home sellers may use shortcuts to cover up window problems. If you notice windows with heavy sealant, caulking, or paint, you should be wary of repair issues. In certain cases, if windows are obstructed or painted over, a home inspector won’t be able to identify problems that need repair. 

Flooring Issues Under Carpeting or Rugs

Issues like excess moisture, cupping, stains, or fractures in floor boards can be covered up by heavy furniture, or home sellers may simply use a large area rug that’s difficult to move to hide floor problems. If you suspect flooring issues, you may be able to request an inspection of the subfloor to identify possible water damage or rot. 

Repairs, Remodeling, and Landscape Regrading After Major Incidents

While it may be nice to see new paint, cabinetry, or renovations during a home inspection, keep in mind that home sellers may use these to hide major issues. Keep an eye out for basement renovations or major exterior upheavals, like the resurfacing of exterior or interior foundation areas, as those may be attempts to cover up water damage or foundation issues. You can ask the home seller to provide proof of permitted work done when you see evidence of newly rehabbed areas. 

The home inspection process can be complicated, so contact a professional from South Sound Inspections to help guide your journey. 

High Humidity in the Home

High Humidity in the Home

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Why Humidity is a Problem and What to do About It

Living in a damp climate like the Pacific Northwest can lead to issues around the home, specifically regarding humidity. Humid air inside the home can feel heavy and uncomfortable; in some cases, it can also be unhealthy. While there may be a variety of causes for humidity in the home, there are also accessible solutions that can help, too. Read on for information about what to do when your home is feeling too humid.

What are common causes of humidity in the home?

During hot, muggy summer weather, humidity can enter your home if it’s not properly sealed and if your HVAC system isn’t working properly.

 Air leaks caused by open gaps or seams can draw humidity inside. And an HVAC system that is outdated or incorrectly sized can also lead to a humid-feeling home. A good choice for high-humidity is an air-source heat pump, which transfers heat from inside your home to the outside.

Another common cause of humidity in the home can be using appliances for cooking, drying clothes, washing dishes, or taking showers. These activities add more moisture to the air and can make it uncomfortable inside, especially when it’s humid outside, too. Make sure your dryer’s discharge pump is connected properly to the back of the dryer and that it’s depositing air outside. 

Plumbing leaks, moisture from soil under your home, and poor insulation can also cause humidity in the home.

Why is humidity in the home a problem?

Excess humidity in the home may lead to electrical issues, mold and mildew growth, and musty odors.

If the humidity in your home gets to 50% or higher, it may cause corroded wires and condensation – two things you do not want interfering with your electrical system.

High humidity over 60% may damage wallpaper, furniture, brickwork, and floors. It can also encourage mold and mildew growth, which may exacerbate allergies or other respiratory issues.

How can I decrease humidity in the home?

Many homeowners will respond to humidity in the home by purchasing a dehumidifier (or several, depending on the size of the home). But this is only a temporary fix.

You may want to consider either upgrading your HVAC system, or getting it correctly sized to your home. When a large A/C works to cool a small space, it tends to short-cycle (only running for a few minutes), before it shuts down, so it can’t keep up with the humidity building up outside. Homes usually need longer run-times – not extra-large air conditioning units – to keep living spaces cool and dry.

You can also try increasing ventilation in high-humidity areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Install an exhaust fan in these areas and open up windows when possible to circulate some fresh air. 

Should I get a dehumidifier?

Getting a dehumidifier is often a first impulse of many homeowners who are struggling with humidity in the home. A dehumidifier can remove excess moisture from the air, and the amount of time you run it depends on the size of your home. However, portable dehumidifiers are only a temporary solution, and you will have to dump out the water it collects and clean it to prevent mold and mildew growth inside the appliance.

The best long-term solution is to get your insulation inspected to ensure it’s working optimally, and to check your doors and windows to see that they’re properly sealed.

If you’re wondering whether or not your home is prepared for a hot and humid summer, contact South Sound Inspections for more information.

How to Keep Your Home Cool in Summer

How to Keep Your Home Cool in Summer

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Once summer arrives, you and the family are most likely excited about soaking up the sun and enjoying the great outdoors. But it’s a good idea to make sure that your indoor areas can be a welcome escape from the heat. From maintaining your A/C unit, to outfitting your windows and doors for the season, here are some key tips for keeping your home cool in the summer.

Check Your Doors and Windows

Making sure that cool air doesn’t escape your home is key to maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. It’s a good idea to seal gaps around doors and windows, and add a draught guard to the bottom of doors so cool air doesn’t seep out from the bottom.

For windows, clean the window track and sill to ensure that windows fully close. If you see cracks around the window, seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.

Make Use of Curtains

Keeping your blinds closed (if you have them) or shutting your curtains can help to block heat from the sun’s rays outside to keep you cool indoors. Heavier and thicker than typical drapes or blinds, blackout curtains provide a barrier between you and the heat outside. Some blackout curtains also feature a reflective side that helps to redirect heat and sun away from the inside.

Maintain Your A/C Unit

Your A/C unit works best when it’s clean and well-maintained, so get in the habit of installing new air filters every few months. Clogged, dirty filters can limit the flow of cool air, and if air flow is obstructed, it can bypass the filter and leave dirt on the evaporator coil, which decreases the coil’s heat-absorbing abilities.

If your A/C unit is outside, clear debris like tall grass, weeds, and leaves that may have gathered around it. You can also remove the fan cage to clean out debris from the inside.

Use Your Ceiling Fan Wisely

The direction that your ceiling fan spins can have an impact on how cool your home feels during the summer. To encourage a downdraft of cool air, program your ceiling fan to turn counterclockwise. This can enhance the cooling effects of the A/C when it’s running.

Seal the Fireplace

A fireplace is great for cozy, winter nights, but during the summer you’ll want to ensure that cold air doesn’t make its way up and out of the home, and that warm air doesn’t come into the home. Close and seal the damper to prevent air flow, and adding a chimney cap damper can help to seal off the fireplace from the top.

Check Your Attic Insulation

A well-insulated attic can help keep your home cool during the summer. Inspect your attic to see if the insulation is dirty or compressed – if so, you may need to replace it with newer materials that can more effectively block heat transfer. Seal and weatherstrip around the windows in your attic to ensure hot air doesn’t move from your attic to the rest of the home.

If you’re wondering how your HVAC system will keep up with hot temperatures this summer, contact South Sound Inspections for an evaluation of your heating and cooling systems.

Most Common Home Inspection Repairs in the Seattle Area

Most Common Home Inspection Repairs in the Seattle Area

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Given Seattle’s climate and unique geography – wet seasons, steep hills, and an abundance of greenery — homes in our area tend to present specific issues. These issues are usually identified during home inspections, and there are repairs you may need to consider if you’re moving into a Seattle-area home. Here are some common home inspection repair issues and tips on how to resolve them. 

Sewer Lines

Homes in the Tacoma area specifically are subject to side sewer inspections as part of the entire home inspection process. But, homes outside of Tacoma can also benefit from these inspections due to common issues related to plumbing that occur in our area, like rootbound pipes, offset joints, sagging, broken pipes, and clogs. Professional sewer cleaning services can repair rootbound pipes by using a high pressure water hose with an attached blade to cut through the roots. In extreme cases, sections of pipe may need to be replaced. 

Roof Issues

The roof is the first point of contact that a home has with the Pacific Northwest’s infamous rain. Over time, rain breaks down debris, like leaves, and that process causes mold, which in turn wears away shingles. This leads to leaks that can cause moisture damage or mold in your attic. One approach to address this is using peroxide- or bleach-based solution to spray down the roof and destroy mold. 

Similarly, clogged gutters can lead to water pooling near the edge of the roof or overflowing and flooding near the home’s foundation. An easy repair and preventative maintenance includes cleaning out gutters regularly to ensure they’re clear before the next rain. 

Chimneys are another roof feature that presents problems like deteriorating brickwork and masonry, loose chimney flashings, or cement that wears away between bricks. Fill in visible cracks and call in a professional roof contractor to replace broken chimney flashings.   

Foundation and Soil Issues

Seatte’s hilly surroundings are picturesque, but they can complicate your life if your home sits on sloping ground. A home’s foundation is usually subject to shifting over time, and a home on a slope can experience foundation cracks. A significant issue is also erosion – when rain impacts the soil and causes debris to move downhill towards your home. 

Cracks that are wider than ⅛ inch can be filled in with concrete crack filler, but contact a foundation professional for more complex repairs. Older properties may need to invest in soil regrading, installing a French or surface drain, or adjusting landscaping. 

Mold

The damp Seattle climate can wreak havoc on basements and lead to mold issues. If you have a small area of mold in your home, you can clean it yourself. 

First, protect yourself with gloves and a face mask, and then seal the area to be cleaned by closing vents and opening up a window. Remove furniture and throw away damaged items. Scrub surfaces with a mild detergent solution and then wipe down floors and walls with a diluted bleach solution and let it dry. You can also apply a borate-based detergent mix, without rinsing it off, to affected areas, which can prevent mold from growing.  

Wood Rot

If wood rot is found during an inspection, and it’s a small area, you can fix it by removing the rot and filling in the resulting hole with epoxy or a wood patch. If a larger area is affected, like an entire deck or porch, it may be necessary to replace rotted beams or joists with new wood. Once the new wood fixtures are installed, prevent future rot by sealing your deck and removing mildew buildup by regularly scrubbing the surface with a brush and soapy water. 

If you’d like to learn more about what kinds of repairs to prepare for in your new Seattle-area home, contact South Sound Inspections for a professional evaluation. 

Common Fixes Before Moving In

Common Fixes Before Moving In

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After you’ve completed the home inspection, signed the mortgage papers, and packed up all your things, moving into a new place may still require some work. While the home inspection identified issues that needed to be repaired before you moved in, there may be smaller fixes that still need to be done to make your new house a home. Make the most of your fresh start by completing these common fixes for moving into a new home. 

Change Your Locks

One of the very first tasks to take on after you move in is changing, or rekeying, the locks. If you are moving into a home with previous owners, definitely take the time to change the locks because you cannot be sure who may have an extra set of keys that allows access to your property. A newly built home with no previous owners won’t require this step, but keep reading below for more quick fixes.

Pest Control

Older homes in urban areas usually need more attention when it comes to pest control, but these fixes are a great idea for new homes, too. Install door sweeps at the bottom of all exterior doors to act as a barrier between your home and outdoor pests. Caulk the sides of doors and windows, and seal utility openings with expandable foam, steel wool, copper mesh, or cement. Identify and repair small openings or cracks near attic vents, the roof, and crawl space areas, since those are popular places for pests to enter your home. 

Fire Safety

The last thing you want in your new home is a fire hazard. Ensure safety for you and your family by purchasing a fire extinguisher and installing a smoke alarm, if you don’t have one already. When arranging furniture, appliances, and any electronics in your new home, make sure those areas are free of overloaded power strips and that they’re not hot to the touch. Outlets and extension cords should also have proper air circulation. 

Heating and Cooling System Clean Up

Whether you’re moving into a home with previous owners, or a newly built property, chances are the HVAC system could use a clean up. In newly built homes, debris and dust from construction can build up in vents and cause odors or particles to settle on your new home’s surfaces. In older homes, you will likely deal with dust remnants from the previous owners. You can clean the vents yourself with a vacuum and other common household supplies, or call a professional service that can clear the vents for you. 

Squeaks and Creaks

Creaking floors, squeaking door hinges, and noisy floorboards may not have been included in the home inspection report as red flag items, but you can make these minor repairs right when you move in. You can use surfboard wax, WB-40, or petroleum jelly to lubricate door hinges. Wooden floor creaks are usually caused by wood shrinkage around the nails, and you can fix this by using counter snaps, which are screws driven into the wood. After inserting the screws, fill in the holes with wood putty. 

Looking for more advice about what to repair after moving into a new home? Contact South Sound Inspections for an expert opinion. 

Why Get an Inspection for a New Home:

Why Get an Inspection for a New Home:

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Common Questions about New Construction Inspections

Newly constructed homes are attractive to potential buyers because without previous residents, it seems less likely that a new home will have problems. But, newly constructed homes can also have structural and mechanical issues that you should be aware of, which is why new builds need inspections, too. Some newer homes are built with speed, rather than quality, in mind, which can lead to costly repairs down the road. Here are some reasons why new construction homes also need inspections.

Why get an inspection for a new home?

You should get an inspection for a new home, just as you would a previously-owned home because sometimes builders make mistakes, and you need to be aware of these problems before moving in. An inspection for a new home may reveal hidden issues that should be addressed with repairs or maintenance before you start living there. 

How many inspections does a new home need?

A newly built home can have up to three inspections before residents move in. The first is called a foundation inspection, which happens before concrete is poured for the foundation. This inspection looks at how the ground has been excavated and graded, and identifies any issues with the anchors and footing. 

A second inspection happens before the walls and sheetrock are put up. This framing inspection checks that beams, posts, and studs are installed correctly, along with wiring, window flashings, and plumbing. 

The third and final inspection happens once the home is complete, and as a typical inspection it includes assessments of electrical, HVAC, plumbing, foundation, walls, floors, windows, and roof. This inspection gives an objective, unbiased assessment of the new home’s overall condition. After each inspection the builder has an opportunity to fix any issues. 

What happens after a new home inspection?

If an inspector notices issues during the foundation or framing inspection, the builder has an opportunity to fix them. The builder can re-grade soil, adjust frames, or re-wire electric systems before the next steps in the building process. After the third and final inspection, the inspector can still recommend repairs to ensure the home is safe and completed according to code and building standards. In many cases, newly built homes have a warranty that covers the cost of repairs made by the builder. 

What does an inspector look for in a new home?

During the third and final inspection, a home inspector treats the new home similar to a pre-owned home. Here are some common items an inspector will examine:

  • HVAC: Dust and debris leftover from construction is a common issue in new homes, and the HVAC system should be checked for obstructions. 
  • Electrical: If a new home was built quickly, and the wiring or electrical systems were installed poorly, an inspector will point out issues to be repaired.
  • Foundation and structural problems: Watch for cracks more than 1/8th of an inch wide because they can indicate the foundation has been bent.
  • Windows and doors: During a fast build, it’s likely that doors and windows could have been hastily and incorrectly installed.
  • Flooring: Poorly installed floors can buckle or warp, and heavy appliances being dragged across new floors can cause scratches.
  • Walls and nail pops: When new homes settle and walls complete the drying process, it’s possible that the heads of some nails may stick out from the drywall.
  • Siding: A hasty vinyl siding installation can lead to warping and buckling.
  • Plumbing: Sometimes it’s possible that pipes get clogged with construction site debris, and running toilets and blocked drains are common issues in new homes.
  • Grading and drainage: When a new home’s lot is not properly graded, water can run toward the house, rather than away, and cause flooding issues.

If you’re in the market for a newly built home, contact South Sound Inspections to learn more about inspections for new construction.

Problems to Look for When Buying an Old Home

Problems to Look for When Buying an Old Home

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Older homes certainly have unique features that newer homes can lack, like built-in bookshelves, hardwood floors, crown moldings, and stained glass windows. Some older homes also boast high quality materials; for example, walls are more likely to be built with plaster and lathe, making them more soundproof. While you may be excited about the possibilities of living in an older home, there are still common issues to be aware of. Read on for information about problems to look for when buying an old house.

1. Foundation

The foundation supports a house’s entire structure, so issues with a foundation are critical to the overall safety and livability of any home. As a foundation ages, these issues may occur:

  • Uneven floors
  • Doors and windows that “stick” or have trouble closing
  • Cracks in the concrete near the ground or basement
  • Drywall cracks

If an inspector notices any of these warning signs of a damaged foundation, you should schedule some repairs. 

2. Lead Paint

Homes built prior to 1978 are likely to have lead paint, which has since been banned from consumer use because it is toxic, especially for young children. It’s possible that an old house may have a coat of lead paint underneath layers of newer, safer paints. If an inspector discovers the presence of lead paint, it can be removed safely with the help of a certified professional.

3. Asbestos

Similar to lead paint, asbestos is another material that was popularly used in home builds decades ago, but has now been found to be unsafe. Asbestos is a toxic mineral that was commonly used in insulation and fireproofing materials for homes built before 1980. 

A home inspector may be able to identify areas where asbestos likely exists, but you should hire a professional to test the materials to make sure.

If a professional evaluation reveals asbestos, it’s possible to remove it from your home. In certain instances, a professional may determine that removal would be too risky, and it’s best to avoid disturbing areas (i.e, do not remove floor tiles or walls) that contain asbestos. 

4. Roof

An old roof may cause numerous problems like water leaking into your attic, or even pest infestations. Over time, shingles may get damaged, or become covered in mold or algae.

A roof in poor condition can also make your home less energy efficient as indoor air escapes outside through cracks in the roof, and it can also be a fire hazard if water leaks onto any electrical wiring inside.

5. Water Damage and Leaks

A damaged roof is one possible cause of water damage and leaks. Basements in older homes can harbor cracks in the foundation that allow water and moisture to seep in, and older plumbing systems can fall victim to rusted pipes. 

Some old houses also use hand-dug wells as a water source, which run a risk of contamination. Check your prospective home’s water source and get a professional safety assessment. 

6. Electrical systems

Homes 50 years old or more were not built with laptops, flat screen TVs, multiple appliances, and device charging stations in mind. Some older homes may feature knob and tube wiring, which cannot withstand modern day electrical needs. 

Another issue with old homes is aluminum wiring because it is prone to overheating and loosening over time. You should also consider the amperage needed for your home. Most modern homes need 200 amps, but many older homes are only built with 60 or 100 amps. Finally, ungrounded outlets, which lack an attached grounding wire, can also be a common issue. 

7. Insects and Pests

Insects, rats, mice – even squirrels and raccoons – can make nests in older homes, and termites are known to devour water-damaged wood in old houses. Be sure to check attics and basements for signs of pest infestations, like eaten-away insulation, droppings, holes, and gnaw marks. 

If you’re wondering about the condition of an older home you’re thinking of purchasing, contact South Sound Inspections today! 

Tips for Keeping Your Home Sale Ready

Tips for Keeping Your Home Sale Ready

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When it comes to real estate, first impressions matter. That’s why you want to make sure your home looks its best before you put it on the market. Potential buyers want to see themselves in a fresh, clean home that’s been well-maintained. Here are some tips to help you keep your home sale ready inside and outside without doing any major or expensive upgrades.

Consider Curb Appeal

When you decide to list your home, aesthetics are everything. Be sure your house looks attractive from the street by completing these minor improvements to the front exterior:

  • Landscaping. Trim overgrown trees and hedges, plant perennials or annuals for seasonal color, eradicate weeds, and treat areas of dry or dead grass. Consider adding hanging baskets or pots of low maintenance annuals, like geraniums, if you have a sunny front porch.
  • Painting. Get rid of any peeling or faded paint by adding a fresh coat to your exterior, including shutters. Painting the front door in a color that pops, like a bright red, blue, or yellow, is an easy way to make your home look more inviting.
  • Repair driveways and walkways. Add a fresh coat of asphalt to your driveway, or repair cracks in the concrete. Also take this opportunity to update walkways with new flagstones.
  • Get your roof in order. Clean out gutters and replace broken or missing shingles.

Care for the Backyard

Buyers like a well-maintained backyard that they can see themselves spending time in, so consider these updates:

  • Stain the deck or porch. A nice deck stain not only gives your backyard a polished look, it can also protect your deck from the elements.
  • Care for the lawn. Make sure the grass is neatly mowed and free of weeds like dandelions and crabgrass.
  • Fix fencing. You can repaint and weatherproof wood fences and repair broken fence posts. If you have a metal chain link fence, replace rusted metal components.

Freshen Up Interiors

Potential buyers love walking into a home that feels bright, clean, and airy. Here’s how you can create that feeling in your home: 

  • Add a fresh coat of paint. New paint can make an older home feel like new. Choose neutral colors and save money by painting yourself. Removing wallpaper is a great way to make your home appeal to a variety of buyers.
  • Focus on lighting. Add new, updated light fixtures, window treatments or blinds. Also get your windows cleaned to emphasize natural lighting.
  • Update the kitchen. Kitchens can make or break a home sale, so update older cabinets, appliances, and hardware, freshen up the paint with a neutral color, and if your budget allows, purchase new, stainless steel appliances to give your kitchen a sleek, updated look.

Minor Repairs

People want to see a home in good condition, so little things like these matter:

  • Fix leaky faucets, showerheads, or running toilets.
  • Make sure door hinges are oiled and don’t squeak, and that doors close easily and fully.
  • Broken floor tiles in the kitchen or bathroom should be replaced, and carpets should be steam cleaned, especially if you have pets.

Once you’ve completed these tasks, you can call a professional home inspector to get more information about the systems in your home that aren’t visible to the naked eye. Call South Sound Inspections to schedule a pre-listing inspection that will give you information you need about what repairs your home may need before selling.

Toilet Do’s and Don’ts

Toilet Do’s and Don’ts

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6 Tips for Toilet Maintenance

Your bathroom is one of the most frequented rooms in your home, so when your toilet is on the fritz, it can cause major problems. You can avoid toilet issues like clogging and flooding, or even the dreaded running toilet, when you learn some simple toilet maintenance tips. Read on for more information about do’s and don’ts for your toilet. 

DO Watch What You Flush

Toilets are designed to handle #1, #2, and toilet paper – nothing more. Avoid flushing thick paper products like paper towels and napkins, as well as things like floss, bandaids, or cotton balls. 

Some brands of tampons claim that the tampons themselves (not the applicators) can be discarded in the toilet, but the reality is that flushing tampons can stress a septic system. Flushable wipes are also commonly found in bathrooms, but those take a while to degrade, and in the meantime they can clog plumbing. Also use caution with super absorbent types of toilet paper. 

DO Keep a Plunger Handy

Even if you’re doing your due diligence by not flushing tampons, wipes, and thick toilet paper, it’s still possible that your toilet may clog. In these cases it’s best to keep a plunger nearby. The best type is a ball-shaped or fold out cup-style plunger. When plunging a toilet to remove a clog, be sure to press down gently and then pull up vigorously; if you press down too hard, you may move the clog further down rather than up and out. 

DO Clean Your Toilet Regularly

To ensure your toilet remains in good working order for a long time, make sure you clean it regularly. You can use natural cleaners and disinfectants like baking soda, vinegar, and mild soap for porcelain. And you can remove stubborn rust stains from a toilet bowl by using Acid Magic – just be sure to wear protective glasses and gloves when working with harsh chemicals. 

DON’T Ignore a Running Toilet

If your toilet is running, you may be wasting dozens of gallons of water per day, so it’s best to address the issue immediately. There may be a few causes for a running toilet: a broken toilet flapper (or flush valve); the chain may be caught; the float may need to be lowered; or, the refill tube needs to be repositioned.

Toilet flappers drop down and seal off the tank when enough water has flowed through; but, if it’s stuck in the raised position, or if it’s degraded and not sealing properly, it causes water to keep running and flowing. It’s easy and inexpensive to replace your old toilet flapper with a new one that seals the tank effectively and stops a running toilet. 

DON’T Flush Hazardous or Reactive Chemicals

While it may seem acceptable to flush paints down the toilet – they are liquid, after all – paints can stick and congeal to the sides of septic pipes and cause clogs. You should also avoid flushing paint thinners or other corrosive chemicals because they can eat away at plumbing. 

DON’T Be Afraid to Call a Plumber

Some toilet maintenance jobs or repairs are best done by the experts. If you’ve tried a DIY solution like replacing an old toilet flapper, or put your best effort into plunging a toilet that’s still stubbornly clogged, call a professional for an evaluation and an effective fix. 

If you’re curious about your home’s plumbing system and how to best maintain it, call South Sound Inspections today to schedule a visit. 

7 Tips for Spring Home Maintenance

7 Tips for Spring Home Maintenance

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After enduring a long, cold winter, your home will be ready for some springtime maintenance to prepare for the warmer months. If your home’s interior and exterior needs a bit of TLC, follow these spring home maintenance tips. 

Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning

Spring is a beautiful season, but the allergies that come along with it can be a pain. You can help reduce the impact of indoor allergies by clearing your home of particles that irritate your sinuses. You can clean air ducts yourself by using a vacuum, a cleaning brush, a screwdriver, and some paper towels. 

First, loosen up the dust by turning on the “fan” function of your HVAC system to help move dust closer to the registers. Then, turn off the HVAC system. Use a screwdriver to remove vent grates and wash them. Once the vent grates are off, use your cleaning brush to knock off any debris stuck to the sides of the vent, and then vacuum the remaining dust. Finally, replace the vent grates. 

Seal Up Doors and Windows

Cold air, snow, and ice can wreak havoc on the areas around your doors and windows, so check those seals and make sure they’re intact. Air leaks can increase your energy costs down the line, especially during the summer when the A/C is running. Scrape off damaged caulk before replacing it with a fresh coat, and be sure to use the correct material for exterior or interior seals. 

Care for Exterior Siding and Paint

Once all the snow and ice has melted, you want your home to look its best. Examine your siding and paint to determine what needs to be redone. If you have vinyl siding that’s showing signs of mold, consider cleaning it with a solution of water and vinegar, and replace siding or trim that’s already rotted. 

Chimney Check

If you used your fireplace during the winter, spring is the time to clean and maintain your chimney. You can hire a chimney sweep to inspect and clean the flue, but you can also make sure that there are no cracks, mold, or crumbling masonry around the chimney. Clean the grates, tiles, and doors; check for damage to the liner; and, verify that the damper opens and closes properly. 

Fill In Low Areas of Your Lawn

Spring rains may cause flooding problems if your lawn isn’t level, but you can avoid this issue by using compacted soil to fill in low areas. Making sure your lawn is properly graded can prevent damage to grass and garden areas, and decrease the risk of flooding or water damage to your foundation.

Inspect Concrete

Your home’s concrete foundation needs a thorough inspection at least once per year. Check your driveway and walkways for cracks. You can replace any pavers that are damaged, and patch up an asphalt driveway. Look for cracks on the exterior and interior of your concrete foundation, and call in a professional for assistance. 

Check Sump Pump

With the heavy rains of the spring season, it’s a good idea to make sure your sump pump is functioning correctly to avoid a flooded basement.  To make sure it works, you can trip the sump pump manually, or dump a large bucket of water into the basin to see that the pump kicks on. You don’t want to discover it doesn’t work when heavy rains arrive!

If you have concerns about proper spring home maintenance, or want to schedule a professional inspection, contact South Sound Inspections today. 

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