The Homeowner’s Guide to Protecting Your Home from Heat and Water Damage

by Desmond Thornton | Feb 4, 2023 | Uncategorized

The Homeowner’s Guide to Protecting Your Home from Heat and Water Damage

As a homeowner, it is important to understand the potential threats that exist to your home. Two of the biggest threats to your home heat in the attic and water entering the home. These two dangers can cause significant damage to your home and put your family’s safety at risk. In this blog, we will discuss the dangers of heat in the attic and water entering your home, and provide tips to help protect your home from these threats.

Heat in the Attic

Heat in the attic can be a major problem for homeowners, especially during the summer months. When hot air accumulates in the attic, it can cause the roof and other building materials to become overheated. This can cause the roof to deteriorate, leading to leaks and other problems. Additionally, heat in the attic can cause the temperature in your home to rise, making it uncomfortable to live in during the hot summer months.

To prevent heat in the attic, it is important to properly ventilate your attic. This can be achieved by installing proper vents on the roof and adding insulation to the attic floor. It is also important to keep your attic free of clutter, such as boxes and other storage items, as these can block vents and make it difficult for hot air to escape.

Water Entering Your Home

Water entering your home can cause significant damage, leading to mold, rot, and other problems. This can occur as a result of leaks, floods, and other water-related events. To prevent water from entering your home, it is important to have proper drainage around your home and to check your home’s plumbing regularly for leaks. Additionally, it is important to have a backup plan in case of a flood, such as sandbags or a sump pump.

Another important factor to consider when protecting your home from water damage is to make sure your home is properly sealed. This includes sealing windows, doors, and other areas that are susceptible to water leaks. Additionally, it is important to have a professional inspect your home to ensure that it is protected from water damage.

In conclusion, heat in the attic and water entering your home are two major threats to your home and can cause significant damage. To protect your home from these threats, it is important to properly ventilate your attic, have proper drainage around your home, and have a backup plan in case of a flood. Additionally, it is important to have your home inspected by a professional to ensure that it is protected from water damage. By taking these steps, you can help protect your home and your family from these potential dangers.

“The Power of Solar: How Installing a Solar Attic Fan Can Benefit Your Property”

by Desmond Thornton | Feb 4, 2023 | Uncategorized

The Power of Solar: How Installing a Solar Attic Fan Can Benefit Your Property

Attics are often overlooked as a source of energy waste and discomfort in homes. Hot air can become trapped in the attic, making the entire house feel hotter and increasing the strain on air conditioning systems. This is where solar attic fans come in – these innovative fans use the power of the sun to keep attics cool and comfortable.

A solar attic fan operates by drawing hot air out of the attic and exchanging it with cooler air from outside. This helps to reduce the temperature in the attic and reduces the amount of heat that can build up in the home. By removing hot air from the attic, a solar attic fan can help to reduce the overall temperature of the home, making it feel more comfortable and saving you money on energy bills.

Another benefit of a solar attic fan is that it helps to extend the life of your roof. Hot air in the attic can cause roofing materials to degrade and reduce their lifespan. By removing hot air, a solar attic fan can help to keep your roof in good condition and extend its life.

Solar attic fans are also easy to install and maintain. They are powered by the sun, so there are no electrical or fuel costs to worry about. They are also quiet and have no moving parts, so there is no need for regular maintenance or replacement.

Installing a solar attic fan is also a great way to improve the energy efficiency of your home. By removing hot air from the attic, a solar attic fan can help to reduce the load on your air conditioning system, leading to lower energy bills. It’s a win-win situation – you’ll be able to enjoy a more comfortable home and save money at the same time.

Another great thing about solar attic fans is that they are environmentally friendly. They use the power of the sun, which is a renewable resource, and do not produce any emissions. By reducing energy consumption, you’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint and doing your part for the environment.

In conclusion, installing a solar attic fan is a smart and cost-effective way to improve the comfort of your home and reduce energy consumption. With no electrical or fuel costs, easy installation, and no maintenance required, there are plenty of benefits to be had. So, why not invest in a solar attic fan today and start enjoying the many benefits that it has to offer?

Protecting your home from burglars

by Desmond Thornton | Feb 3, 2023 | Uncategorized

Protecting Your Home from Burglars: Tips and Tricks

Homeowners can take steps to secure their homes and prevent break-ins. Inspectors can advise clients on basic strategies to make their homes less appealing to burglars.

According to InterNACHI, theft accounts for over three-quarters of reported crimes in the US. In 2005, law enforcement reported over 2 million burglaries. Survey results show that burglars typically enter homes through the following entry points: 81% through the first floor 34% through the front door 23% through a first-floor window 22% through the back door 9% through the garage 4% through the basement 4% through an unlocked entrance 2% through a storage area 2% through the second floor

In Canada, the burglary rate is seven times higher than in Norway and slightly higher than in the US (877 per 100,000 people) but lower than in Australia (2,275 per 100,000 people).

Exterior Doors:

Doors should be made of solid steel or solid-core wood
Doors should be free from signs of rot, cracks, and warping
Doors should have quality deadbolt locks and a cage or box for mail slots
Glass panes should be placed away from the lock and spare keys should not be kept in obvious locations
A peephole can be installed and bump-resistant locks can be considered

Pet Doors:

Pet doors should be avoided or kept as small as possible and far from the lock
Electronic pet doors that only open with the pet’s collar are available

Sliding Glass Doors:

Should have locks on the top and bottom
Should not be able to be lifted from the frame
A cut-off broom handle can be placed in the track to prevent opening

Illumination:

Lights should be placed on all four sides of the house
Some lights should be left on when the home is unoccupied and motion-sensor lights can be installed

Windows:

Should be made of strong glass and be in good condition
Can be secured with bars, grilles, grates, or wire screening
Windows should not be obstructed by landscaping or structures and lighting can be installed around them

Landscaping and Yard:

Shrubs and trees should not block the view of entrances
Fences can deter burglars but should not be too obstructive
A loud radio, a car parked in the driveway, regularly cut lawn can make the home seem occupied

Other tips:

Dogs can be an effective burglar deterrent
Timers can be used for lights and radios to make the home appear occupied.

Fire Extinguisher

by Desmond Thornton | Feb 2, 2023 | Uncategorized

Fire extinguishers are commonly found indoors and serve as a means to extinguish fires and prevent their spread. They are small metal canisters that contain a compressed gas, usually nitrogen, which propels a directed spray of flame-retardant chemicals when activated. It is important for building occupants to understand the proper use and placement of fire extinguishers.

Fire extinguishers are classified based on the type of fire they are effective against. These fires are categorized by their fuel source and assigned identifying letters: “A” for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, “B” for combustible liquids such as gasoline and oil, “C” for electrical fires, “D” for combustible metals, and “K” for fires involving vegetable oils and animal fats in kitchens.

Fire extinguishers are also classified by the type of chemical agent they contain, such as dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water, and wet chemical. Each type is appropriate for different types of fires and it is important to use the right extinguisher for the right type of fire.

For proper inspection, fire extinguishers should be located within 30 feet of commercial cooking equipment that uses cooking oil or animal fat and within 75 feet of travel on every floor. The extinguishers should be in a visible and accessible location, not obstructed or obscured, and with a clear and readable pressure dial in the green or “charged” area. The pull pin should be securely fastened, the hose should be intact, and the body of the extinguisher should not have any visible dents or cracks. The fire extinguisher should be in its proper location and properly mounted. The label should be legible and easily readable.

Inspectors should not test fire extinguishers, determine the number of extinguishers needed or their ratings, or ignite or extinguish fires. The National Fire Protection Agency recommends that fire extinguishers be tested every 5 to 12 years depending on the type. It is important to regularly test and replace fire extinguishers to ensure they are in proper working order.

“Stay Safe with a Proper Dryer Vent: Understanding the IRC M1502 Guidelines”

by Desmond Thornton | Feb 1, 2023 | Uncategorized

Stay Safe with a Proper Dryer Vent:

Understanding the IRC M1502 Guidelines

Clothes dryers are an essential household appliance, but did you know that a poorly installed or maintained dryer vent can pose a significant fire hazard? The International Residential Code (IRC) outlines guidelines to ensure dryer vents are safe and efficient. In this blog, we’ll break down the IRC M1502 standards for clothes dryer exhaust and explain why it’s important to follow these regulations.

The first requirement is that the dryer vent must be properly connected and free of any restrictions. This is to prevent the buildup of lint, which is highly flammable, in the exhaust duct. Any restrictions or kinks in the duct can reduce the dryer’s ability to expel heated water vapor, leading to overheating and potential fire hazards.

The IRC recommends using a minimum of 0.016-inch-thick rigid metal ducts, with smooth interior surfaces, to prevent lint buildup. The length of the exhaust duct should not exceed 35 feet, and any 90-degree turns in the vent will reduce this number by 5 feet. The duct must terminate on the outside of the building and be equipped with a backdraft damper. The diameter of the exhaust duct should match the manufacturer’s specifications.

It’s worth noting that the IRC will allow deviations from these standards if the manufacturer’s instructions permit it. However, confirming compliance with these deviations is beyond the scope of a General Home Inspection. The transition duct should not be concealed within construction, and flexible transition ducts used to connect the dryer to the exhaust duct system should be limited to single lengths not to exceed 8 feet.

Finally, IRC M1502.2 states that exhaust ducts should not terminate in crawlspaces or attics, as this can deposit moisture and encourage the growth of mold or other material problems. The duct must terminate at the exterior and away from any door or window. Screens should not be installed at the duct termination, as they can accumulate lint and pose a fire hazard.

In conclusion, following the IRC M1502 guidelines for clothes dryer exhaust is crucial for ensuring the safety of your home. Proper installation, maintenance, and inspection of your dryer vent can prevent fires and save lives. If you have any doubts about the safety of your dryer vent, it’s always best to consult a professional inspector.

The Importance of Hiring a Professional Home Inspector in Chattanooga, Tennessee

by Desmond Thornton | Jan 29, 2023 | Home Inspections, Uncategorized

The Importance of Hiring a Professional Home Inspector in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Are you in the process of buying a new home in Chattanooga, Tennessee? If so, hiring a professional home inspector should be at the top of your to-do list. A home inspection is a comprehensive examination of a property’s condition, providing you with a thorough understanding of the property’s strengths and weaknesses before you make a purchase.

Why You Need a Home Inspector

A home inspector will examine the property’s structure, systems, and components, including the roof, walls, foundation, electrical and plumbing systems, heating and cooling systems, and more. By hiring a professional home inspector, you can avoid costly surprises and identify potential problems before you finalize the purchase of your new home.

The Benefits of Hiring a Home Inspector in Chattanooga, Tennessee

When you hire a home inspector in Chattanooga, Tennessee, you will receive a detailed report of the inspector’s findings. This report will give you valuable information about the condition of the property, and it will help you make informed decisions about the purchase of your new home.

In addition to providing a detailed report, a home inspector in Chattanooga, Tennessee, can also provide you with valuable advice and recommendations on how to address any issues that may arise during the inspection. This can include everything from simple repairs to major renovations.

Choosing the Right Home Inspector in Chattanooga, Tennessee

When choosing a home inspector in Chattanooga, Tennessee, it’s important to choose someone who has experience and expertise in the field. Look for an inspector who is licensed, insured, and certified by a professional organization, such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).

It’s also a good idea to choose a home inspector who is willing to take the time to answer your questions and provide you with a comprehensive inspection report. This will help you to feel confident in your decision to purchase the property, and it will give you peace of mind knowing that you have a thorough understanding of the property’s condition.

In conclusion, hiring a professional home inspector in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a critical step in the home buying process. By taking the time to choose the right inspector and understanding the benefits of a home inspection, you can ensure that you are making an informed decision when purchasing your new home. So, don’t delay, contact a home inspector today and take the first step towards making your dream of homeownership a reality.

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