A slow draining sink, tub, or shower are a common problem and one that we find often during the home inspection. A slow draining plumbing fixture can be the result of a simple clogged trap or it can indicate a more significant plumbing issue that would be outside the ability of a typical homeowner [...]
Using a battery pack at the igniter for a gas fireplace can be necessary when the home has lost power or if electricity has been disconnected from the electric igniter at the gas fireplace. It may not occur to all homeowners that utilizing a gas fueled appliance still requires a small amount of electricity [...]
Is your sliding door sticking, grinding, or generally difficult to open? This issue can often be resolved with relatively simple maintenance that homeowners can perform themselves. Sliding doors need to be maintained in order to preserve their satisfying smooth operation, as well as their energy-efficiency and general condition. The easiest maintenance a homeowner can [...]
Moldy sealant is a common issue that can quickly make a bathroom look aged and unsightly. The sealant or caulking around your plumbing fixtures is easy pickings for household mold and mildew with an ideal combination of warmth, moisture, and organic materials such as soap, skin cells, or food particles. The issue can be [...]
Allowing downspouts to drain directly at the foundation of a home is a common but potentially dangerous practice. Although it may seem harmless, this condition can have significant ramifications that jeopardize both the structural integrity and the safety of the occupants of the home. The risks posed by this practice can result in a [...]
Modern plumbing pipes are often comprised of plastic components. Plastic is a material that has an extremely long life, is durable, and affordable. It quickly became the material of choice for plumbing piping throughout the industry for these reasons. One consideration for protecting various plastic components from potential long-term damage is preventing exposure to sunlight. Sunlight is [...]
Fiberglass batt insulation has been installed in residential construction since the 1930s. Fiberglass batts are easy to install and are used to slow the spread of cold and heat in a home. Common areas to find fiberglass batts are in walls, ceilings, and floors. Fiberglass batts can be a good insulator when properly installed. [...]
A common defect that we find during a home inspection is water heaters that are not properly strapped to prevent damage or injury during a seismic event. Each state has different regulations regarding seismic strapping for water heaters and it generally correlates with the seismic risk in that area. Seismic risk in Oregon and [...]
Water heaters are a crucial component of modern households, providing hot water for various household tasks such as showers, washing clothes and dishes, and even cleaning. However, to ensure that the water heater operates efficiently and effectively, it is essential to set the right water temperature. In this article, we will cover the steps [...]
High water pressure can cause several problems in a home and lead to damage to pipes, fixtures, and appliances. It can also increase the cost of energy and water bills. In this article, we will discuss the effects of high water pressure, what a safe water pressure is, how to reduce water pressure, and [...]
