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Category Archives: Home safety

Categories Home Inspection, Home safety

Get Your Home Ready for Fall

Fall

Warmer weather is starting to disappear, leaves will be falling, and soon teen girls everywhere will be buzzing about pumpkin spiced lattes. Yes, the signs of fall are upon us.

Just as the seasons change, so do our own needs and concerns within our homes. If you live in a colder climate, you don’t want to be caught off-guard and unprepared.

Prepping your home in anticipation of the colder months can prevent unwanted repairs or even the devaluation of your home.

Follow our advice to “Fall-proof” your home and ensure you don’t run into any unnecessary problems.

Inside the House

1. Check for Drafts

Replace any seals or caulks around windows and doors or buy heavier, insulated drapery for windows to keep your house cozy.

2. Furnace Inspection

Contract an HVAC professional to test for leaks, check heating efficiency and change the filter.

3. Winterize AC

If you live in a colder area that won’t use central air conditioning consider covering your outdoor unit.

 

Exterior of the House

1. Review Your Roof

Remove leaves or debris from flat roofs and check for loose or broken shingles/tiles.

2. Clear the Gutters

Prevent clogging by removing all debris and draining outdoor faucets in colder areas.

3. Inspect Siding

Look for any cracks or holes.

4. Chimney Maintenance

If you regularly use a wood fireplace have it professionally cleaned and inspected.

5. Look at the Trees

Make sure there are no dying, low hanging or rotten limbs that could fall on your home or a power line.

6. Install Storm Windows

Replace screens with more appropriate coverings.

7. Tend to Patio Furniture

Remove, clean and cover cushions or bring outdoor furniture indoors.

 

In Your Garage

  1. Test your generator
  2. Keep extra gas handy
  3. Service summer equipment – Empty fuel in your lawnmower, clean trimmers and get any necessary repairs taken care of so when spring rolls around your tools are ready to go!

Deep Clean

Although many attribute spring to be the season of cleaning, fall is actually the time to start. Slash your spring cleaning list by getting on top of your chores earlier in the year.

  • Dust closets when swapping out summer clothes for sweaters.
  • Wash walls, baseboards, switch plates and light fixtures.
  • Steam clean stone surfaces.
  • Inspect grout, especially around showers and backsplashes.

Preventative maintenance can save you big on emergency repairs and wasted energy costs.

Add value to your property by properly keeping up with your home’s needs—taking a few simple steps now can help you avoid a full-blown crisis down the road.

We’re here to help!

If you’re preparing to put your home on the market, you won’t want to neglect the fall home maintenance guide. Additionally, make things much easier on yourself by calling in the pros!

At Elite Inspection Group we are bridging the gap between homeowner and inspector.

We offer extended services, easy and efficient scheduling, and once we’re finished, we will take you through the report in terms that you can easily understand.

If you’re ready for your home inspection today get in touch with us here!

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
Categories Home Inspection, Home safety

Don’t Let These Tips Slip Your Mind During a Move

Move

We already know that moving can be a complete disaster in both practice and emotionally speaking if you don’t properly prepare.

Perhaps the easiest way and most important aspect of moving will be getting a full, professional home inspection; whether it’s a seller’s inspection or buyer’s inspection.

Get the most bang for your buck and save yourself from future problems by letting us assess your home!

In our last post we talked you through some important tips to maintain sanity while moving, but today we want to go over some crucial factors and resources that will be key in crafting your stress-free move.

Because moving, especially if you have a large family, can be incredibly taxing it’s no surprise that you will forget a few things, some of which may feel unforgettable. We’re here to help you in planning your big move.

1. Change the Locks

You don’t know who has keys to your new home, don’t take any chances and have the locks changed before moving in.

2. Steam Clean

Give your new home a fresh start by having the carpets steam cleaned before moving in furniture.

This will require a little planning, and you can save money by renting or borrowing a steam cleaner and doing the work yourself.

Again, if you don’t have the time look for a professional service or hire hourly help from TaskRabbit.

3. Fight off Unwanted Guests

No, we don’t mean nosey neighbors! We’re talking about the little critters like termites, ants and or mice. Tackle this issue before moving in to save yourself frustration.

4. Moving Survival Kit

This should be done before packing the major items in your home and should stay with you during the move, aka in your car.

This could be a few bags that have all the things you’ll need right away medications, some clothes, food, new keys, pet supplies, etc.

Some key items to include: Passport and important documents (because you want to keep them close), garbage bags, cleaning supplies, a utility knife, flashlights, and toilet paper will be useful.

5. Remember the Outdoor Items

Often people forget the small stuff in the backyard, like the bird feeder, wind chimes, or the statue you got for Mother’s Day. Bring these things inside when packing, so you don’t leave them behind.

6. Prepare Appliances

Especially the big ones. If you’re taking your refrigerator, you need to make sure it’s ready to go at least 24 hours before the move. It should be completely dry and empty before moving.

7. Let the Post Office Know

Fill out the change of address form at least two weeks before moving to ensure your mail arrives to your new location.

8. Color Code

Assign each room a color then put that color on the outside of the box. For example, say all the kitchen boxes will be yellow then you paint a small, visible area of the box yellow.

Additionally, this can help movers by letting them know which color goes to which space.

What are some other tips you like to use when moving? Have you recently purchased a house or are looking into buying one?

Stay away from the money pit by letting us do your home inspection, call the pros today!

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
Categories Home Inspection, Home safety

DIY Home Maintenance

Home Maintenance

There are many things you can regularly check to ensure your home is in tip-top shape.

And by staying on top of home repairs, you can potentially save yourself from unexpected and costly repairs.

Keep in mind that while checking your home, if you come across some serious issues, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

If you’re the type of person who prides themselves on being “on top of things” or you generally like to be aware of what’s going on in your home, this post will be just what you’re looking for.

However, if you’re the complete opposite and find that you’re often catching up in different situations, this post will be helpful for you too.

It’s easiest to tackle this list if you break it up by seasons. As we are drifting out of summer, we will begin with the Fall checklist.

Fall Projects

As moderate temperatures begin to settle, it’s time to pick up your rake and head outside.

This will be an essential time to prep your home for winter, especially if you live in a harsher environment.

  • Clean gutters
  • Inspect deck for any loose nails or screws
  • Inspect roof for any damage
  • Drain sediment from water heater
  • Insulate exposed pipes
  • Check/clean fireplace
  • Tend to cracks and gaps in driveway or walkway
  • Check for frayed wires

Winter Projects

Make it through another cold season without any problems by checking these items off your to do list!

  • Check toilets and sinks for leaks
  • Inspect hose on washing machine, dishwasher, and ice maker
  • Test sump pump
  • Inspect and replace any bad weather stripping around doors and windows
  • Keep an eye on steps and handrails in case of ice
  • Trim trees and shrubs near your house

Spring Projects

  • Check roof and clean gutters
  • Change AC air filter
  • Schedule a septic system inspection
  • Check concrete slabs for cracks and fill accordingly
  • See if outside faucets suffered from freeze damage
  • Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Summer Projects

  • Review foundation for drainage issues
  • Check basement and crawl spaces for moisture
  • Keep an eye on any pests (termites, ants, etc.)
  • Clean AC filter and bathroom vents
  • Scrub away any mold or mildew build up outside the home

Incorporating these monthly practices into your routine will prove beneficial in the long run.

Remember that these lists are meant to serve as a helpful guide to important home maintenance projects, but if you are serious about taking care of your home and your wallet then you should follow a few more tips monthly, regardless of the season:

  • Clean/replace HVAC filters
  • Clean garbage disposals and kitchen drains
  • Clean range hood filters

How often do you check these items off your to-do list? Are you having doubts about something you found?

While you can be on top of the ball and actively work to keep your home in good shape nothing can replace the touch of a pro.

If you come across anything concerning or you want a professional opinion don’t hesitate to call us today!  

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
Categories Home safety

8 Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore

home projects

Your home is your greatest investment and probably your greatest possession, so why leave problems on the back burner when you notice them?

While busy schedules or financial burdens are seemingly good reasons to put off home improvements, doing so may actually cost you more in the long run.

We want to point out some of the red flags that you should always address as soon as possible. Taking care of these issues right away can save you BIG in the future.

1. Roofing Problems

Your roof is essential to your home, and we’ve talked about easy ways to maintain it.

Refresh yourself with these tips to keep your roof in working order. Leaking, loose shingles, or any discoloration means it’s time to call in a pro and take care of the minor issue before it becomes a major one.

2. Discolored Ceiling Stains

This is an indicator of moisture coming into your home, either from the roof or pipes in your bathroom.

Take some time to find the source of the leak and save yourself thousands in water damage or even worse, the loss of personal belongings.

3. Crumbly, Wood Windows

This is a sign of rot and could lead to a much larger issue. If your windows are peeling or crumbling, address them ASAP!

4. Electrical Issues

Flickering lights may be a sign of improper or old wiring. This issue needs to be examined by a licensed professional early on. Any electrical issue within the home can be dangerous for everyone inside.

5. Leaky Faucets or Toilets

Monitor your water bill each month, if your bill skyrockets, but you haven’t increased usage call a plumber. A hidden leak may be plaguing your home!

6. Replacing a Deck

Failing to stay on top of routine cleanup and maintenance can really do a number on your deck.

The cost of maintaining a deck is less than $100 a year while replacing it from the ground up can run upwards of $8,000. Keep it clean from debris, reapply sealant, and do an annual inspection for rot to keep your deck healthy.

7. Driveway

Many people don’t think about the necessity of maintaining their driveway but think about how much it’s exposed to.

Your driveway handles the constant weight of heavy vehicles and is fully exposed to harsh conditions (extreme heat, ice, etc.).

Asphalt driveways are prone to crumbling if not protected so be vigilant with your application of driveway sealer.

8. Clogged Gutters

Neglecting your regular gutter maintenance can lead to problems with mold, cracks in flooring, or even erosion.

Spending a little time on your Saturdays cleaning out the gutters will help safeguard your home against bigger problems in the future.

Most of these home improvement issues are easily avoidable with a little regular upkeep, but if left unattended they can spiral into something ugly really quickly.

We Can Help

Don’t hesitate to call a professional, like us, if you have any concerns with your home today!

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
Categories Home safety

Is Your Deck Dangerous

deck

You’ve probably been spending the last few weeks outside on your deck. Grilling out, watching sunsets, and just enjoying time with friends and family.

When you’re letting loved ones, neighbors, and even family pets spend so much time in a space of your home, don’t you want to be certain that it’s totally safe?

Because our decks are exposed to the elements, they can deteriorate quickly. While this sounds dreary, the upside is that with a little upkeep most deck problems are preventable or manageable.

Common Issues

According to Angie’s List, home inspectors said nearly one-third of the decks they inspected were unsafe. Make sure that your home doesn’t fall into this category by watching out for these issues.

1. Water Damage

Getting a seal done once is not enough, reapplying sealant is necessary every few years.

To test this out sprinkle some water on your deck, if it doesn’t bead up and rather soaks into the wood then you know it’s time for a new seal!

2. Rotting Wood

This is the worst case scenario for your deck. Check your posts, beams, handrails and stairs.  

Regularly replace problematic boards to maintain the stability of your deck.

3. Fasteners

Do you see any exposed or rusty nails, screws, or anchors? Are they loose?

All of these are potential safety risks for the people occupying this space. Be sure to use bolts in place of nails when fastening wood to wood.

4. Gapping Boards

Many types of wood will shrink over time causing gaps in the deck. The only solution is to remove and replace.

Deck Safety

  • Railings and banisters are secure, the rails are at least 36 inches high and 4 inches apart.
  • Test stairs for a wobble, replace any loose ends ASAP.
  • Steer clear of adding too much weight, a large Jacuzzi or too many people may not be appropriate for your deck.
  • Consider netting or Plexiglas to keep children safe and avoid securing with staples as they can easily dislodge.
  • Alternatively, add slats or spindles to fill in the gaps in railing.
  • If you have a gate, check that the latch is out of reach for children.
  • Annual inspections can ensure structural efficiency.

Hire a Professional

Many see the deck as the perfect DIY opportunity or at least an area of the home where you can save money, but hiring a professional as well as regular upkeep will save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

If you’re buying a home with a deck, be sure to ask for proof of a building permit for construction as well as a certificate of occupancy.

The best deck spaces are the ones where all of the family wants to spend their free time.

We Can Help!

Be proactive and keep these factors in mind when it comes to your deck! If you have any doubts about your deck’s structural safety or you’re buying a home with a deck, give us a call!

We’re here to help!

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Garrett HandAuthor Garrett Hand
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