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 [...]
When inspecting manufactured homes, most defects found are comparable to that of a traditional site built home. However, manufactured homes are unique in that they are typically built off-site in a controlled environment using specific building requirements and can have their own unique set of defects that are commonly found when inspecting manufactured homes [...]
Often when buying a home, it can be easy for potential home buyers to overlook certain defects that may not be as apparent as others. One of the components of the home that is often overlooked is that of the kitchen appliances and their installation. All appliance manufacturers have general guidelines and requirements that [...]
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 [...]
A disconnected dryer vent is a common issue that presents a safety and health hazard for a home’s occupants. Dryer vents are often routed through inaccessible areas, such as attics and crawlspaces. Because it is common for dryer vents to be out of view, it is also common for them to be neglected. Dryer [...]
Clogged sinks are a nuisance and can negatively affect the day-to-day operation of your plumbing system. Most of the time a clogged sink can be easily repaired by a homeowner using a few inexpensive tools. However, if the following repairs do not alleviate the issue, the clog may be the result of a more [...]
Siding deterioration and moisture penetration can be detrimental to a home if not addressed. Moisture that penetrates the siding material can seep into the substrate and framing causing structural issues. Moisture penetration also creates a conducive condition for mold and mildew growth. Additionally, improperly installed siding can create an avenue for wood destroying organisms. [...]
When functioning properly an automatic garage door is a convenient component of a home that helps to protect homeowners and their possessions. A malfunctioning garage door opener, on the other hand, can be a significant safety hazard. Modern garage door openers should have two automatic reverse features installed. They should reverse when resistance is applied [...]
