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Home Inspector - Inspection Consulting, Inc.
Questions on home inspections, construction techniques, dispute resolution are part of our business. Let me know if you have something to discuss.
RECENT BLOG POSTS
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Built-Up RoofBuilt-up roofs can last 5-7 years or 30 years depending on the number of layers. Most residential roofs are 3-ply (layers). These roofs last about 15 years if they drain properly. A slope is preferred and flat roofs with standing water have double the rate of deterioration. If a 5-pl...
11/29/2006
Asphalt Roof DeteriorationThe age of roof coverings is judged by malleability, curling, and granulation failure. An inspector judges these characteristics to broadly express the age of the roof and remaining life.Manufacturers supply shingles with a rating, either 15, 20, 25 or 30 years. Most rec...
11/28/2006
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Attic VentilationAttic ventilation allows heat to escape from an attic in the summer and moisture to escape in the winter. Both are essential for roof warranties and to keep a house comfortable in hot weather. In general, new homes or homes with 10" of insulation in the attic will have ventilatio...
11/28/2006
Garage SafetyGarages should be equipped with solid core entry doors from living spaces into the garage that have a mechanical closer such as spring hinges. Garage walls that abut living spaces should have walls that resist fire spread for one-hour minimum on the garage side. Both of these feature...
11/28/2006
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Insulated GlassInsulated windows are manufactured with a rubber like seal between the two panes of glass. These seals are vulnerable to failure and when these windows fail, moisture enters the sealed unit and can be seen as a fogged window. We make every effort to identify fogged units, however d...
11/28/2006
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StuccoStucco may not be well suited to heavy rain. If water penetrates stucco either by saturation or by entering cracks, rusting of the nailing system and wire mesh can result. Over a period of many years the stucco can become detached from the structure. Repair of stucco that has failed is very...
11/28/2006
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DecksDecks constructed in recent years are required to be made from decay resistant species of lumber such as redwood or cedar or from pressure treated lumber. A deck constructed from hemlock or Douglas fir will rot in a very few years. Decks and treated lumber must always be nailed with galvaniz...
11/27/2006
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TreesTrees must be monitored to protect against falling on the house during winter storms. If trees sway excessively, contact a tree service and consider the removal or topping of dangerous trees. Trim any branch that has grown within 3' of an electrical line to prevent a fire hazard. The power c...
11/27/2006
Retaining WallsRetaining walls of the highest quality are built on concrete footings similar to the footing under a house. Those that are not on footings are subject to movement, particularly if water builds up behind and no weep holes or footing drains are installed. Once a retaining wall has sh...
11/27/2006
Window/Area WellsWindow wells tend to gather debris and limit drying of wood windows. As such, basement windows are frequently in poor repair. Maintain as much separation of wood windows and soil as practical in window wells. Area wells are installed around the foundation vents when grading or su...
11/27/2006
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Kevin Mickels

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Questions on home inspections, construction techniques, dispute resolution are part of our business. Let me know if you have something to discuss.