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It’s so hot, y’all. I know the last thing you want to hear is someone telling you to strap on a tool belt and get outside to survey your property or fix something, but the thing is, there’s stuff you need to look out for when it gets this hot. So drink lots of water and get out there super early or late. Your house needs you! You can do it! Termite Poop Really Inspector Brian? Just a wall full of termite poop, and he runs his bare hands right through it. Yikes. Granted it’s basically wood shavings, but it’s the principle of the thing. I’m finding it hard to get past the poop and arrive at the point here … Right, so termites can be sneaky pests, especially when they turn up in the garage or attic, where you might not find them right away, giving them time to really dig in, so to speak. What begins as surface damage can quickly become structural, and then you’re facing much more costly, more time-consuming problems. Many people believe that termites are not active during the summer because it’s not swarming season, but the summer heat actually speeds up their metabolism, causing worker termites to forage and eat wood more aggressively. Those Beautiful Trees Can’t we just have one thing, Texas summer? Crepe myrtles bloom during much of the summer, making them one of the bits of color in what can be a long, dry season. Unfortunately, as Inspector Travis points out, since many people plant them up against their house, they often grow branches out over the roof (or into the gutters), making them hazardous to the structure. Having that bridge is also conducive to termites and other wood-destroying insects. I’m Melting! While it’s not exactly the case in the video, oftentimes during the summer, the extreme heat can cause similar repair issues. Things literally start to come apart in the heat, like a spigot coming unsealed or a drainpipe coming apart and detached from the wall. The stuff that holds your house together can overheat and melt or disintegrate. Your home is your biggest investment, and you have to take care of it, even in August in Texas. It’s part of adulting. If you have questions about the weird stuff happening to your home in this heat, you can get a home inspection anytime, just reach out to the inspectors!

Keep an Eye Out for These Summer Home Maintenance Issues

It’s so hot, y’all. I know the last thing you want to hear is someone telling you to strap on a tool belt and get outside to survey your property or fix something, but the thing is, there’s stuff you need to look out for when it gets this hot. So drink lots of water and get out there super early or late. Your house needs you! You can do it! Termite Poop Really Inspector Brian? Just a wall full of termite poop, and he runs his bare hands right through it. Yikes. Granted it’s basically wood...

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The kids went back to school this week, and that used to mean it was fall. But it's mid-August, and yet we're all buying fall clothes and fall decorations. Halloween has hit the stores, and my co-worker has her pumpkin spice candle out. (Believe what you want, but pumpkin spice is of the devil, and I will die on this hill). Meanwhile, the heat index is 107 degrees and I've officially lost a layer of skin to my leather car seats. Point being, no matter how much we want it to be fall, it's still summer, and it's going to be summer for quite some time yet here in Texas. That being said, how is your air conditioning doing? After a much needed coolant refill, mine is doing just fine, thank you very much. Now that we're heading into the home stretch, you may be experiencing some issues, like certain rooms that don't get cool, or the temperature that won't go down no matter how low you set the thermostat. Let's hear what the Inspectors have to say about some late summer air conditioning issues. Air Conditioning Tips For Summer This first tip is a great one for those folks who always have to have the latest and greatest new gadget. The hospital grade filter is too much for your house and can actually choke your system's airflow. It'd be like putting a 6.4 L Hemi in your minivan. Tip #2 is for those who always "push" on the "pull" doors. The oblivious ones who can't tell that "this side up" has meaning and purpose. Look for the arrows, y'all. They will show you the way. Tip #3 is to let you know that when they tell you to change you filter every 30-90 days, NOW is when they mean 30 days. When your equipment is working its hardest and longest, that's when you go with the low number. Disconnected Duct = Hot Attic In this video, Inspector Brian discovers a bathroom vent that has become disconnected to the duct that takes all that hot, moist air to the outside, meaning it's escaping into the attic instead. The Texas summer means attics are overheated already, sometimes reaching temperatures of 150 degrees. A hot attic makes your HVAC system have to work even harder to keep your house cool, making energy bills higher and your house warmer. Repair issues like this one just contribute to the problem. Connect Tab A to Slot B Sometimes mistakes are made during installation, especially in new construction homes. A simple exercise of following the ductwork to make sure everything is where it should be led Inspector Adrian to the source of the homeowners problem: the register wasn't blowing cold air because the ductwork was connected to the fresh air intake. Oops! This is an easy fix for an HVAC professional. If you have a hot room, disconnected, blocked, or tangled ductwork may be the problem. Last summer, I came up with "Hotangry" to describe my August heat misanthropy, but it doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. I'm going with "swangry" this year — sweaty and angry. If the heat is getting you down because your house is hot, you may need a home energy assessment. Have an inspector out to let you know how your house is losing energy to keep the cool inside and get those energy bills down.

You're Ready For Fall, But Your Air Conditioning Knows It's Still Summer

The kids went back to school this week, and that used to mean it was fall. But it's mid-August, and yet we're all buying fall clothes and fall decorations. Halloween has hit the stores, and my co-worker has her pumpkin spice candle out. (Believe what you want, but pumpkin spice is of the devil, and I will die on this hill). Meanwhile, the heat index is 107 degrees and I've officially lost a layer of skin to my leather car seats. Point being, no matter how much we want it to be fall, it's...

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"Dependable ... reliable ... cool ..." These are the words you want to associate with your HVAC unit, definitely not "strange" or "weird." Yet that is what we have for you today: odd HVAC situations our inspectors encountered in the field that were definitely out of the ordinary. Take a look and see what you think of these head scratchers. Phantom Register Sometimes, when it comes to building a home, not everyone is working with the same set of plans. It looks like in this house, ducts were set up for a register that was never built. That means all that cold air is just blowing into the attic. Spray Foam Party Spray foam is a great, very efficient type of insulation when it’s deployed correctly, but unfortunately, that’s often not the case — and that was egregiously so in this case. You definitely don’t need to insulate the actual HVAC unit itself. Were they just spraying everything in sight or what? It's Alive! What's a sign your filter isn't catching everything? Well, definitely when there's a small farm of mold or bacteria growing outside the filter in your HVAC. WTH!? Please call to get your unit serviced STAT if you see something like this. Some combination of moisture and material getting through the filter is likely causing this. Imagine being the homeowner breathing that junk! Make sure you get your HVAC serviced at least once a year, and if you have questions about this or any other type of home maintenance, you can always give us a call at Green Scene Home Inspections!

Weird AC Situations That Will Have You Scratching Your Head

"Dependable ... reliable ... cool ..." These are the words you want to associate with your HVAC unit, definitely not "strange" or "weird." Yet that is what we have for you today: odd HVAC situations our inspectors encountered in the field that were definitely out of the ordinary. Take a look and see what you think of these head scratchers. Phantom Register Sometimes, when it comes to building a home, not everyone is working with the same set of plans. It looks like in this house, ducts were...

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When it's in the 80's during the day and the 30's at night, you know you're in Texas during the winter. It's around this time of year that, after relying on their heaters for a couple of months, people start needing to switch back and forth from heat to AC, which is harder on the system than running one or the other. So now is a good time to be sure you are giving your HVAC some love, to make sure it will see you through to the surface of the sun, otherwise known as summer in Texas. Here are some HVAC tips from our experiences in the field: Mind the Gap A little gap in your duct work may not seem like that big of a deal, but think about it this way: when you're driving in your car, think how quickly even opening a window a crack has an affect on the temperature of the car. All that air moving rapidly affects the car quickly, even through a small opening. The same is true with your HVAC. Pressurized air moving rapidly through your system will flow quickly through any gaps, reducing the efficiency of your HVAC by causing it to work harder to cool or heat your space. These gaps commonly occur over time without proper maintenance. As the season changes, it's a great time to have your HVAC serviced to check that your system is sealed up tight. Tin Foil Is Not Just For Aliens The attic is basically a giant unconditioned space sitting on top of your house, so in the summer, you have an oven up there, and in the winter, a freezer, making it harder for your HVAC to do its job. Attic insulation helps with this, but then you have that pesky attic hatch that opens up and lets all that unconditioned air right in. This simple tool that Inspector Matt shares in the video is a great solution to seal your attic hatch, making your attic more efficient. Watch the Drain Lines We’ve discussed drain lines, or condensate lines, before. A critical part of maintaining your HVAC system is actually just being aware of these lines. If the secondary line is dripping outside your house, you know the primary is clogged and it’s time for some maintenance. Inspector Sean also brings up a great point in the video: Do you have a drain pan alarm for your attic unit? Anyway, to clean your condensate line, you can use a home mixture of vinegar and water, or a product called NuLine. You should do this every 3-6 months to keep your lines from clogging. For more HVAC maintenance tips, read on here. If you want someone to check out your HVAC or anything else going on at your house, or even just learn more home maintenance tips, you can get a seasonal inspection anytime.

Texas Winter Temperature Highs and Lows Are Hard on Your HVAC — Tips To Get You Through It

When it's in the 80's during the day and the 30's at night, you know you're in Texas during the winter. It's around this time of year that, after relying on their heaters for a couple of months, people start needing to switch back and forth from heat to AC, which is harder on the system than running one or the other. So now is a good time to be sure you are giving your HVAC some love, to make sure it will see you through to the surface of the sun, otherwise known as summer in Texas. Here are...

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When winter arrives, your heater works harder to keep your home warm and comfortable. This extra effort often leads to higher energy bills. But what if a small, inexpensive change could reduce those costs while improving your home's air quality? Swapping your old HVAC filter for a MERV 8 pleated filter is one of the easiest upgrades you can make to save money and protect your heating system this winter. MERV 8 pleated HVAC filter installed in home heating system Why Your Heater Works Overtime in Winter As temperatures drop, your heating system runs more frequently to maintain a cozy indoor environment. This increased runtime means your heater uses more energy, which can quickly add up on your utility bill. But the real culprit behind soaring energy costs is often poor airflow caused by dirty or inefficient filters. The Hidden Cost of Poor Airflow When your HVAC filter is clogged or low quality, air struggles to pass through. This forces your heater to work harder to push warm air throughout your home. The result is: Increased energy consumption Faster wear and tear on your heating equipment Uneven heating and cold spots in rooms Ignoring your filter’s condition can lead to costly repairs and higher bills over time. The Smart Move: Upgrading to a MERV 8 Pleated Filter Replacing your old filter with a MERV 8 pleated filter is a simple step that offers big benefits. But what exactly does MERV mean, and why is 8 the ideal rating for most homes? What Is a MERV Rating (and Why It Matters)? MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It measures how effectively a filter captures particles from the air. Ratings range from 1 to 20, with higher numbers filtering smaller particles. Low MERV (1-4): Basic filtration, captures large particles like dust and lint Medium MERV (5-8): Captures smaller particles such as mold spores, pet dander, and dust mites High MERV (9-16): Filters very fine particles including some bacteria and smoke Very High MERV (17-20): Used in hospitals and clean rooms for ultra-fine filtration Why MERV 8 Is the “Goldilocks” Choice for Most Homes A MERV 8 pleated filter strikes the right balance between filtration and airflow. It improves indoor air quality without restricting airflow or putting extra strain on your HVAC system. The Dangers of Cheap Fiberglass Filters Many homes use basic fiberglass filters because they are inexpensive. However, these filters: Trap fewer particles Allow dust and allergens to circulate Require more frequent replacement Can cause your system to work harder due to poor filtration Why High-MERV Filters Can Backfire Filters with very high MERV ratings may trap more particles but can also reduce airflow if your HVAC system isn’t designed for them. This can: Increase energy use Damage your heating equipment Reduce system efficiency MERV 8 filters provide effective filtration without these drawbacks. Benefits of a Clean Filter: Comfort, Savings & Health Upgrading to a MERV 8 pleated filter offers multiple advantages beyond just lowering your energy bill. Lower Energy Bills & Longer Equipment Life A clean, efficient filter allows air to flow freely, so your heater doesn’t have to work as hard. This means: Reduced energy consumption Lower monthly heating costs Less wear on your HVAC system, extending its lifespan Healthier Air for You and Your Family MERV 8 filters capture common indoor allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander. Cleaner air helps reduce allergy symptoms and respiratory issues, making your home healthier during winter months when windows stay closed. Step-by-Step: How to Swap Your HVAC Filter Safely Changing your HVAC filter is a quick task you can do yourself with minimal tools. What You’ll Need New MERV 8 pleated filter (check your HVAC unit for the correct size) Screwdriver (if your filter compartment has screws) Vacuum or cloth to clean the filter slot Quick Replacement Steps Turn off your HVAC system to avoid dust circulation. Locate the filter compartment, usually near the air return vent. Remove the old filter carefully to avoid spreading dust. Vacuum or wipe the filter slot to remove debris. Insert the new MERV 8 filter with the airflow arrow pointing in the correct direction. Close the compartment and secure it. Turn your HVAC system back on. When to Replace Your Filter Again Check your filter every 1 to 3 months during winter. Replace it sooner if you have pets, allergies, or a dusty environment. Regular replacement keeps your system running efficiently. Green Scene Home Inspections’ Winter Energy Tip Our experts recommend pairing your filter upgrade with other simple steps like sealing drafts and insulating pipes. These actions complement your HVAC improvements and maximize energy savings. Expert Advice for Home Efficiency Schedule a professional HVAC inspection annually Keep vents and registers clear of furniture and clutter Use a programmable thermostat to reduce heating when you’re away FAQs About HVAC Filters & Winter Energy Savings How much can I save by upgrading to a MERV 8 filter? Savings vary by home size and system, but many homeowners see a 5-15% reduction in heating costs. Will a MERV 8 filter fit all HVAC systems? Most residential systems support MERV 8 filters, but check your manufacturer’s guidelines. Can I reuse a MERV 8 filter? No, these filters are disposable and should be replaced regularly for best performance. Does upgrading my filter improve air quality? Yes, MERV 8 filters capture more allergens and dust than basic filters, improving indoor air quality. Is it hard to install a new filter? No, filter replacement is straightforward and can be done without professional help.

Cut Energy Bills This Winter with a Simple HVAC Filter Upgrade

MERV 8 pleated HVAC filter installed in home heating system

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A home inspection is a vital step in buying or selling a home. It helps identify potential issues before finalizing the deal. Understanding the home inspection process can save you from costly surprises. It provides peace of mind and confidence in your investment. This guide will offer essential tips for a successful home inspection. You'll learn about the process, requirements, and benefits. Avoid common mistakes and make informed decisions with our comprehensive advice. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or agent, this guide is for you. Understanding Home Inspections: A Comprehensive Guide What Is a Home Inspection and Why Is It Important? A home inspection is a thorough evaluation of a property's condition. It involves assessing major systems and components. During an inspection, the inspector examines the roof, foundation, plumbing, and more. This process helps uncover hidden issues that may affect the home's value. The importance of a home inspection lies in informed decision-making. Buyers gain insight into potential problems before committing. Sellers can address issues before listing, increasing buyer confidence. Key aspects of a home inspection include: Visual assessment of the property Identification of repair needs Evaluation of safety hazards Investing in a home inspection can prevent unexpected expenses down the line. It is a safeguard for future safety and value. Both buyers and sellers benefit from understanding the property's true condition. This knowledge leads to more successful real estate transactions. Understanding the Home Inspection Process Understanding the home inspection process is key to ensuring a smooth experience. The process starts by hiring a qualified inspector. It's essential to choose an experienced professional with solid credentials. Once an inspector is selected, they will schedule a visit. The actual inspection typically takes about two to four hours. This duration can vary based on home size and age. During the inspection, the inspector performs a visual evaluation. They check several systems and structures to assess their condition. Areas inspected often include: Roof and exterior Foundation and basement Plumbing and electrical systems Heating and cooling systems Interior components Buyers should attend the inspection to ask questions. This allows them to learn more about the home. Sellers also benefit from understanding potential issues beforehand. Proper preparation and clarity about the process reduce anxiety. It ensures all parties involved feel confident and informed. A clear understanding of the inspection process paves the way for addressing any necessary repairs or negotiations. Key Home Inspection Requirements and Standards Home inspection requirements can vary by state and region. Understanding these standards ensures all necessary areas are covered. Inspectors follow a checklist to comply with these rules. Typically, inspectors adhere to guidelines from professional associations. These associations set standards for thorough examinations. Key standards might include: Inspecting readily accessible systems Evaluating exterior conditions Assessing major home systems Documenting defects and safety issues Buyers and sellers should be aware of specific local requirements. This awareness helps ensure that their inspection meets legal and professional expectations. Following established standards boosts confidence in the inspection's accuracy. It helps in identifying potential issues early, aiding in informed decision-making. Home Inspection Checklist: What Inspectors Look For A comprehensive home inspection checklist efficiently guides the inspection process. This checklist includes essential elements both inside and outside the house. Inspectors begin by assessing the roof for any potential leaks or damage. They examine the gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. The focus then moves to the exterior walls and foundations to check for any cracks or deterioration. Inside the house, inspectors assess the plumbing and electrical systems, ensuring they function correctly and safely. The heating and cooling systems are also meticulously evaluated. Additional areas of concern include: Attic and insulation Ventilation systems Doors and windows Basement and crawl spaces Inspectors document their findings with photographs and notes. This comprehensive assessment helps buyers and sellers understand the home's condition. A thorough inspection can prevent future surprises. Home Inspection Benefits for Buyers and Sellers Home inspections provide significant benefits for both buyers and sellers. For buyers, they confirm the property's condition. A comprehensive inspection uncovers potential issues that could impact the sale. Sellers, meanwhile, can utilize inspections to address problems in advance. Resolving issues before listing can enhance buyer confidence and potentially raise the sale price. Understanding the property's condition enables better market positioning. Key benefits include: Identifying safety hazards Negotiating repairs or price adjustments Reducing unexpected future repair costs Both parties gain from clearer insights. These insights facilitate smooth transactions and build trust between them. Overall, inspections contribute to informed decision-making. How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost? The cost of a home inspection varies based on several factors. Location, size, and age of the home play significant roles in determining the cost. On average, buyers can expect to pay between $300 and $500 for a standard inspection. Costs can fluctuate if additional services are required. Specialized tests, like radon or mold checks, may add to the overall expense. It's wise to budget accordingly and consider these potential extras when planning. Here's a quick breakdown of factors influencing the cost: Location: Regional price differences Home Size: Larger homes require more time Extra Tests: Specialized inspections increase costs Despite the expense, a thorough inspection is a small investment for peace of mind. This step ensures a better understanding of the property's true condition. How Long Does a Home Inspection Take? The duration of a home inspection often depends on the size and condition of the property. Typically, inspections last between two to four hours. Larger or older homes might require more time for a comprehensive evaluation. Factors affecting the duration include: Property Size: Bigger homes have more areas to inspect Property Condition: Older homes might have more issues Inspector's Expertise: Experienced inspectors work efficiently Attending the inspection allows buyers to ask questions and gain insights into the home's condition. Choosing the Right Home Inspection Services Selecting the right home inspection service is vital for an accurate assessment. Credentials and experience greatly influence the quality of the inspection. Look for certified inspectors with good reviews and recommendations. To ensure a reliable inspection, consider the following factors: Certifications: Check for credentials from recognized institutions Experience: Prioritize inspectors with years of experience in the field Customer Reviews: Read feedback and testimonials from previous clients A thorough home inspector will also provide a detailed report with clear findings and recommendations. This report is essential for making informed decisions about your potential home purchase. Common Home Inspection Mistakes to Avoid Avoiding common home inspection mistakes can save both time and money. One frequent error is not attending the inspection. Being present allows you to gain firsthand knowledge and ask questions. Ignoring minor issues during an inspection is another pitfall. Small problems can escalate and lead to major repairs down the line. It's wise to address them early. To avoid these and other mistakes, keep these tips in mind: Attend the inspection to understand all findings Address even minor issues promptly Research your inspector to ensure reliability By steering clear of these common pitfalls, you'll ensure a smooth home inspection process. Essential Home Inspection Tips and Advice Preparing for a home inspection can make the process much smoother. Start by researching potential inspectors. Look for credentials and read reviews. Communicate with your inspector before the inspection. Share any specific concerns you have about the property. This ensures the inspector pays special attention to those areas. Understanding what the inspection covers helps manage expectations. Remember, it's not about passing or failing. Instead, it provides a snapshot of the home's current condition. Here are some helpful tips: Research and choose a qualified inspector Communicate any specific concerns in advance Review past inspection reports if available These tips will guide you through a successful home inspection, increasing your confidence in the process. Understanding Your Home Inspection Report Deciphering the home inspection report is crucial. It's a detailed account of the property's current state, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. Pay close attention to any listed issues that may require immediate action. Review the report with care, preferably with your agent or inspector present. This helps clarify any uncertainties or technical details. Use the list below to manage your response to the report: Identify urgent repairs or safety issues Note items needing monitoring or future attention Evaluate areas for potential improvements Taking time to understand the report fully aids in making informed decisions and negotiating repairs effectively. Special Considerations: New Construction Home Inspections Even new homes require thorough inspections. Assumptions that new construction is problem-free can lead to unpleasant surprises. Builders may miss minor issues, or code compliance might fall short during construction. New construction inspections focus on areas where errors often occur. These could include: Improperly installed systems or fixtures Incorrect building materials Incomplete finishes or minor defects Include these checks in the inspection to ensure quality. New homes demand attention to confirm they meet safety and quality standards. Early detection of issues can save costs and stress in the long term. After the Inspection: Next Steps and Negotiations Once the home inspection is complete, review the report carefully. Understand the findings and their implications for the property's value and safety. Highlight critical issues that need immediate attention. Negotiations often follow a detailed review. Use the inspection report to request repairs or a price adjustment. This can include: Major structural issues Significant safety hazards Large-scale repairs needed Keep communication open with the seller. Work collaboratively to resolve any issues found. This ensures a smoother transaction and helps in making an informed decision. Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Home Inspection A thorough home inspection is vital for making informed decisions. Knowing the process and findings helps you get ready for any problems. The insights from a detailed report guide future home improvements and maintenance. Remember, a home inspection is an investment in your property's safety and value. Trust the process, ask questions, and use the findings wisely to protect your investment.

Thorough Home Inspections for Buyers in Dallas and Surrounding Areas

Ensure a successful home inspection with our essential tips and advice. Learn the process, benefits, and avoid costly mistakes for peace of mind in real estate.

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Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, especially in a bustling area like Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW). With its thriving economy and diverse culture, the DFW housing market is full of opportunities, but it also presents challenges. This blog post provides essential insights that can help first-time buyers make smart choices and navigate the housing landscape with confidence. Understanding the DFW Housing Market The DFW housing market stands out as one of the fastest-growing in the United States. Over the past decade, the region has seen a population increase of over 20%. This surge is largely due to job growth in sectors like technology, healthcare, and finance. As more people move to the area for work and a better quality of life, home prices have risen accordingly. For first-time buyers, familiarizing themselves with the local market is crucial. Knowing that the median home price in DFW exceeded $350,000 in 2023 can help buyers set realistic budgets and expectations. The competition can be fierce, especially for homes in popular neighborhoods, making it vital to be prepared. The Importance of Home Inspections Conducting a home inspection is one of the most important steps in the buying process. A solid inspection can reveal issues that might be hidden from the naked eye. For instance, structural problems, electrical wiring issues, or outdated plumbing can lead to costly repairs later on. First-time buyers should not overlook this step. In the DFW area, companies like Green Scene Home Inspections offer detailed evaluations that can save buyers money and headaches down the road. Investing in a home inspection typically costs between $300 and $500, which is a small price compared to the potential expenses from unforeseen repairs. Neighborhoods to Consider DFW boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique character. Here are three popular options for first-time buyers: Deep Ellum: This vibrant area is known for its art scene and live music. With a growing number of restaurants and bars, it attracts many young professionals. The average home price here is around $450,000, making it a trendy yet competitive choice. Frisco: A family-oriented suburb, Frisco is famous for its top-rated schools and expansive parks. Homebuyers looking for a safe environment will find lovely single-family homes averaging around $400,000 here. Oak Cliff: This neighborhood combines historic charm with modern amenities, making it appealing to diverse buyers. Sample home prices range from $300,000 to $500,000, catering to various budgets. Researching potential neighborhoods that align with your lifestyle and needs is essential for ensuring a satisfying home purchase. Financing Options for First-Time Buyers Understanding financing options is crucial when purchasing a home. Various programs help first-time buyers lessen the financial burden. For example: Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) provides first-time homebuyer grants and low-interest loans that can significantly reduce upfront costs. Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans are popular as they require lower down payments, typically around 3.5% of the home price. Before starting the home search, buyers should talk to lenders for pre-approval. This can speed up the process and improve chances in a competitive market. The Role of Real Estate Agents First-time buyers may find the DFW housing market complex. This is where a skilled real estate agent can be their best ally. A knowledgeable agent will have insights into local market trends and negotiation tactics that can save buyers money. When searching for an agent, look for someone with proven experience in DFW and a solid track record with first-time buyers. A strong partnership with an agent can make the entire home-buying experience smoother. Future Market Trends Keeping an eye on market trends is important for first-time buyers. Projections suggest that the DFW housing market will continue to thrive, with an expected 2-3% increase in home values over the next year. This trend means potential buyers should act timely to avoid paying even higher prices later. Additionally, it's crucial to be aware of external factors like rising interest rates, which can affect purchasing power. Keeping informed about these trends can help first-time buyers make strategic decisions and time their purchase wisely. Wrapping Up Purchasing a home in the DFW area can be a rewarding journey for first-time buyers. By grasping the local housing market, prioritizing home inspections, and exploring various neighborhoods, buyers can feel more at ease throughout the process. Additionally, leaning on an experienced real estate agent and staying updated on market trends can further smooth the buying experience. With thorough preparation and valuable insights, first-time buyers can find the perfect home in the vibrant DFW area.

6 Essential Insights on DFW Homes for First-Time Buyers

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, especially in a bustling area like Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW). With its thriving economy and diverse culture, the DFW housing market is full of opportunities, but it also presents challenges. This blog post provides essential insights that can help first-time buyers make smart choices and navigate the housing landscape with confidence. Understanding the DFW Housing Market The DFW housing market stands out as one of the fastest-growing in the United...

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Ensuring the safety of your home’s electrical system is crucial, especially in areas where water and electricity meet. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to protect against electrical shock by cutting off power when they detect a ground fault. This guide will walk you through how to test GFCI outlets in your home, what the results mean, and why this safety feature is essential. Understanding GFCI Outlets GFCI outlets are usually found in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor areas where moisture is common. They have a "Test" and "Reset" button that are vital for their operation. If the GFCI functions correctly, it can prevent serious electrical hazards. For example, homes with GFCI outlets in wet areas can reduce the risk of electrical shock by approximately 70%, according to safety experts. The Importance of GFCI Testing Regular testing of GFCI outlets is essential for maintaining home electrical safety. A malfunctioning GFCI outlet may not trip when it should, leaving you vulnerable to electrical shock. This risk is especially high in areas with water, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Testing these outlets can help ensure they are functioning correctly. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association notes that nearly 70% of electrical-related injuries take place at home, often in circuits affected by water. How to Test GFCI Outlets Testing GFCI outlets is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide: Step 1: Locate the GFCI Outlet Identify the GFCI outlets throughout your home. Common locations include near sinks in kitchens and bathrooms, as well as garages and outside areas. Step 2: Inspect the Outlet Before testing, visually check the outlet for any signs of damage, such as cracks or burn marks. If you notice any issues, do not test the outlet; instead, contact a qualified electrician right away. Step 3: Use the Test Button Press the "Test" button on the GFCI outlet. This should cause the outlet to trip, cutting power to any devices plugged into it. You can confirm this by checking if any connected devices lose power. Step 4: Reset the Outlet Press the "Reset" button to restore power to the outlet after testing. Step 5: Use a Multimeter (Optional) For a more in-depth inspection, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage at the outlet. While optional, this step can provide extra peace of mind. What the Results Mean After testing your GFCI outlet, it's essential to know what the results indicate: If the outlet trips correctly: This shows that the GFCI is functioning properly. It is providing the needed protection against electrical shock. If the outlet does not trip: This indicates a malfunction, suggesting that the outlet should be inspected and replaced by a qualified electrician right away. If the outlet trips but doesn’t reset: This could imply a deeper issue, such as a ground fault elsewhere in the circuit. Again, professional help is recommended to resolve this. GFCI Testing in Different Areas of the Home Kitchens In kitchens, GFCI outlets are typically positioned near sinks and countertops. Regular testing here is essential. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, more than 50% of kitchen electrical accidents can be avoided with proper GFCI usage. Bathrooms Bathrooms are critical for GFCI outlets. Regular testing of outlets near sinks and bathtubs is key for preventing potential electrical shocks. Garages Garages often house tools and equipment that may encounter water, making it crucial to test GFCI outlets in these spaces regularly. Outdoor Areas Outdoor outlets are subject to weather conditions and should be tested frequently. Ensure that all GFCI outlets used for outdoor lighting or equipment are working properly. Additional Safety Tips for GFCI Outlets Keep the Area Dry Always keep the area around GFCI outlets dry. Water and electricity do not mix well. If you notice any spills, clean them up immediately. Know When to Call a Professional If you experience repeated issues with your GFCI outlets, it’s time to call a professional. They can diagnose and fix any underlying problems. Educate Your Family Make sure everyone in your home knows where the GFCI outlets are located and how to test them. This knowledge can be lifesaving. Final Thoughts on GFCI Testing Testing GFCI outlets is a simple yet essential task for maintaining your home’s electrical safety. By following the steps outlined in this guide, homeowners can ensure their GFCI outlets work correctly, enhancing safety and reducing electrical hazards. Regular GFCI inspections not only help comply with safety standards but also protect your family and property. For more insights on home electrical safety and inspections, consider reaching out to professionals who specialize in GFCI outlet testing and other electrical safety measures.

Essential Guide to Testing GFCI Outlets for Home Safety and Compliance

Protect your family from electrical hazards with regular GFCI outlet testing. Learn how to test, what the results mean, and when to call a professional.

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After a summer storm, homeowners in Texas must take swift action to ensure their properties stay safe and sound. Storms can cause serious damage, so conducting a thorough inspection is essential. This guide, informed by Green Scene Home Inspections, offers a practical checklist designed to help homeowners safeguard their properties while enhancing energy efficiency. The Importance of Post-Storm Inspections Post-storm inspections are crucial for several reasons. First, they help reveal damage to the roof, windows, and other significant areas that might not be immediately visible. According to the Insurance Information Institute, 35% of homeowner insurance claims arise from wind and hail damage. Ignoring these issues can lead to costly structural problems and higher utility bills due to energy inefficiency over time. Homeowners should take proactive steps to ensure their homes remain safe and efficient. A systematic inspection can uncover immediate concerns, setting the stage for preventative measures. Roof Inspection One of the most important areas to inspect after a storm is the roof. Use the following steps to identify any damage early: Visual Inspection: Examine the roof from the ground. Look for missing shingles, visible sagging, or signs of water entry points. In Texas, an average roof replacement can cost between $5,000 and $10,000, so spotting issues early can save a lot of money. Check for Debris: Remove tree branches, leaves, or other debris that may have accumulated. This can prevent future pooling of water during storms. Inspect Flashing and Seals: Examine roof flashing around chimneys and vents for gaps that could allow water in. Up to 90% of roof leaks start at flashing points. Document Findings: Photograph any damage for record-keeping and when filing insurance claims. A thorough roof inspection can prevent significant repair costs down the line. Attic Examination The attic is another area that can experience severe storm damage. Here’s how to inspect this space effectively: Look for Water Stains: Check the ceiling and walls for any water stains or discoloration, which can indicate leaks. Inspect Insulation: Ensure insulation is dry and intact. Wet insulation can cause mold growth and reduce energy efficiency by up to 30%. Ventilation Check: Confirm all attic vents are clear. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup. Addressing attic water damage promptly can prevent long-term issues such as mold or damaged insulation. Breaker Box Safety Post-storm inspections should always involve checking the electrical system, particularly the breaker box: Examine for Water Damage: Look for signs of moisture or corrosion. If water has entered, shut off the main power immediately and call an electrician. Ensure Functionality: Test the circuit breakers to confirm they operate correctly. If any breakers trip unexpectedly, this could indicate deeper issues that need attention. Ensuring the safety of the breaker box helps prevent electrical hazards arising from storm damage. Window Assessment Windows can be particularly vulnerable during summer storms, so it’s essential to conduct a detailed inspection: Check for Cracks and Gaps: Inspect each window for cracks, broken seals, or gaps that could allow water to enter. Examine Screens and Frames: Look closely at window screens and frames for damage. Broken screens can invite insects, while damaged frames can lead to moisture problems. Seal Anticipation: For any identified cracks or gaps, consider re-sealing or reinforcing windows to prevent future water ingress. Proper window maintenance can enhance energy efficiency and reduce cooling costs by up to 20% during the hot Texas summer. Gutter Inspection Gutters are vital for directing water away from the home. After a storm, homeowners should conduct a thorough inspection: Clear Clogs: Remove leaves, twigs, or other debris that might block gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can overflow, leading to water damage. Inspect the Condition: Look for visible signs of rust, holes, or misalignment in gutters and downspouts. Any damage can hinder effective water drainage. Check for Proper Slopes: Ensure gutters are sloped correctly for optimal water flow. A slope that is too flat can lead to standing water and increased wear. Regular gutter maintenance helps ensure clear water channels and reduces the risk of mold forming near the foundation. Crawlspace Review If your home has a crawlspace, it is essential to inspect this area: Check for Standing Water: Look for any water accumulation, which can lead to significant issues if not addressed promptly. Inspect for Mold and Mildew: A damp crawlspace is a breeding ground for mold. If any is found, take immediate action. Evaluate Insulation: Ensure insulation in the crawlspace is dry and intact. Proper insulation contributes significantly to the overall energy efficiency of the home. A thorough crawlspace storm inspection can prevent costly structural damage and promote a healthier home environment. Additional Preventative Measures In addition to the inspections mentioned, homeowners can also take proactive steps to enhance their homes' resilience against future storms: Invest in Storm Windows: Consider installing storm windows for added protection during severe weather events. Maintain Landscaping: Trim back trees and shrubs to minimize the risk of damage from falling limbs during storms. Regular Inspections: Schedule consistent inspections throughout the year to catch any issues before they become major problems. Final Thoughts Conducting a comprehensive post-summer storm home inspection is vital for protecting your property and ensuring long-term efficiency. By examining areas like the roof, attic, breaker box, windows, gutters, and crawlspace, homeowners can avoid significant damage and improve energy consumption. Green Scene Home Inspections encourages Texas homeowners to take an active role in maintaining their homes, especially after summer storms. A systematic approach to inspections can minimize risks and enhance comfort and efficiency in the future. Taking these proactive steps will not only protect against immediate issues but also enhance the overall longevity and efficiency of your home. The best time to assess your home is right after the storm has passed; timely action can lead to significant savings and peace of mind in the years to come.

How to Conduct a Thorough Post-Summer Storm Home Inspection for Long-Term Protection and Efficiency

Texas storms can damage your roof, attic, and energy systems fast. Use this expert post-storm inspection checklist to stay safe, avoid costly repairs, and reduce energy loss.

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Understanding the Importance of Home Inspections Home inspections are crucial in maintaining your property and ensuring buyer confidence. With July temperatures sometimes reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, conditions in critical areas like attics can change quickly. Being informed about your home's condition helps prevent costly repairs and boosts comfort and safety. For instance, homes without adequate ventilation can see energy costs soar by an average of 20% during hot summer months. Attic Ventilation Tips for a Cool Home Attic ventilation is vital, particularly in Frisco's intense summer heat. Consider these specific actions: Inspect Vents: Regularly check that soffit and ridge vents are free from debris. Blocked vents can trap heat, driving up cooling costs. Install Energy-Efficient Fans: Adding roof-mounted or gable fans can help reduce attic temperatures significantly. Studies show these fans can decrease indoor temperatures by up to 10 degrees. Consider Insulation: Use insulation materials with a high R-value, such as spray foam, which can reduce heat transfer significantly. Proper insulation can lead to energy savings of up to 15%. Monitor Humidity Levels: Install humidity sensors in your attic to keep tabs on moisture levels. Effective ventilation can prevent issues like mold, which affects around 30% of all homes. Proper attic ventilation not only helps maintain indoor temperatures but also extends the life of your roof, saving homeowners money in the long run. Enhancing Home Safety with Smart Locks Smart locks are becoming a staple in modern security. Here’s how to effectively integrate them into your home: Review Your Smart Lock Installation: Ensure it is securely installed and functions properly during inspections. An estimated 50% of smart locks fail to connect due to improper installation. Test Connectivity: Ensure your smart lock can be accessed remotely, providing safety during emergencies. A study from the Home Security Organization shows that homes with smart locks are 40% less likely to be burglarized. Regularly Update Firmware: Keeping firmware updated helps protect against vulnerabilities. Approximately 60% of security breaches come from outdated software. Create Unique Codes: Share unique access codes with family and trusted friends. This not only helps you monitor who enters your home but also adds an extra layer of security. Incorporating smart locks elevates home security and offers peace of mind during the busy summer months when visitors are more frequent. Utilizing Thermal Imaging Tools Thermal imaging tools provide essential insights during home inspections. Here’s how they can be used effectively: Spot Insulation Issues: Inspectors can identify where heat is escaping, which helps address insulation problems early. Homes can lose up to 20% of their heated or cooled air through poor insulation. Identify Moisture Problems: Thermal imaging can reveal hidden leaks, reducing the risk of expensive damages. Detecting just one leak can save homeowners between $100 and $600 annually on water bills. Monitor Electrical Systems: Hot spots in electrical systems can indicate potential hazards. Early diagnosis can prevent costly repairs that average $1,500 for electrical issues. These technologies provide a deeper understanding of your home's efficiency, allowing for proactive maintenance. Addressing Crawlspace Issues in Summer Crawlspaces often go unnoticed yet play an important role in your home's health. Here's how to tackle common issues: Inspect for Moisture and Mold: Keep an eye on stagnant water, especially after storms. If mold spores exist, they can spread and decrease your home's air quality, affecting 15% of the population who suffer from allergies. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Like attics, crawlspaces need airflow to prevent pest infestations and deterioration. Proper ventilation can lower humidity levels, reducing pest presence by up to 50%. Evaluate Insulation: Ensure insulation is effective, keeping the home comfortable and energy-efficient. Properly insulated crawlspaces can save up to 10% on energy bills. Consider Flooding Prevention: Install devices like sump pumps to protect against flooding. Preventing just one flooding event can save homeowners thousands in repairs. Proactively addressing crawlspace issues helps save homeowners major frustration later on, especially given the unpredictable nature of summer storms. Real Insider Insights from Green Scene Home Inspections Insights from experienced inspectors are invaluable. Commonly reported discoveries offer wisdom for homeowners: Pest Infestations: Many inspections discover pest problems in attics and crawlspaces. Consider regular pest inspections to maintain a healthy living space. Unseen Plumbing Leaks: Routine checks of plumbing can prevent big leaks that often go unnoticed. Detecting leaks early can save an estimated $500 annually on repairs. Improper Repairs: DIY repairs often lead to larger issues. Experts find that nearly 40% of repairs made by untrained individuals result in new problems. Hiring professionals for inspections ensures issues are caught early. These insights underscore the importance of ongoing home inspections and the benefits of hiring trustworthy inspectors to maintain your home’s integrity. Key Takeaways for Homeowners With the right preparation and knowledge, navigating home inspections in July can be a seamless process. By focusing on attic ventilation, enhancing security with smart locks, utilizing thermal imaging tools, and monitoring crawlspaces, homeowners can create an environment conducive to successful inspections. Implementing these expert tips will not only keep homes safe and comfortable but also make them more appealing to potential buyers. This allows homeowners to relish the joys of the summer months in Frisco without added stress.

Preparing for Home Inspections in Frisco, Texas

Discover real summer issues we’re uncovering in Frisco homes—like attic airflow problems, crawlspace damage, and smart lock risks. Stay protected this season.

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In Texas, summers can be sweltering, making backyard pools a coveted feature for many homeowners. However, the efficiency of these pools heavily relies on the quality of the equipment used. Not only does high-quality pool equipment enhance home efficiency, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining safety standards. Moreover, with National Hydration Day on the horizon, it becomes essential to remember the importance of hydration, especially for those enjoying their time by the pool. This blog post discusses how high-quality pool equipment impacts home efficiency, what inspectors look for during a pool inspection in Texas, and how homeowners can stay hydrated during the peak summer heat. Green Scene Home Inspections – Pool inspection tips for Frisco, McKinney, and Allen homeowners. Why Pool Inspection Texas Services Matter in Summer Investing in high-quality pool equipment is vital for maximizing a home's efficiency. Gear such as energy-efficient pumps, heaters, and automated systems contributes significantly to reducing energy costs. A well-maintained pool can save homeowners a considerable sum, making it an economical choice in the long run. High-quality filtration systems improve water clarity and safety, which can reduce the need for excessive chemicals. Therefore, not only does this equipment provide financial benefits, but it also promotes environmental stewardship by minimizing chemical runoff that can harm local ecosystems. Additionally, advanced pool equipment, such as automatic cleaners and smart pool controls, simplifies maintenance, allowing homeowners to spend more time enjoying their pools and less time maintaining them. What Inspectors Look for During a Pool Inspection When it comes time for a pool inspection in Frisco, McKinney, or Allen, various factors are on an inspector's checklist. Understanding this can help homeowners prepare and ensure their pools are up to standard. Structural Integrity Inspectors will first assess the structural integrity of the pool. A thorough examination of the pool walls, floor, and surrounding deck is essential to identify any cracks, chips, or structural failures that could pose safety hazards. Equipment Functionality Next, inspectors evaluate the pool equipment, such as pumps, heaters, and filters. They check for any signs of wear and tear, ensuring that all systems function correctly. A malfunctioning filter, for example, can lead to cloudy water and create more significant issues over time. Safety Features Another critical aspect is the examination of safety features. Inspectors verify that safety barriers like fences and pool covers are secure and comply with local safety standards. They also check for non-slip surfaces and proper ladders or steps, as these are vital for preventing accidents. Water Quality Water quality is a major critical factor for pool inspections. Inspectors will assess pH levels, chlorine concentrations, and clarity to ensure the water is safe for swimming. Proper sanitation equipment and water balancing ensure a safe swimming environment. Electrical Safety Lastly, electrical systems linked to the pool must be scrutinized. Inspectors will examine wiring, lighting fixtures, and pumps to ensure they comply with safety codes. A faulty electrical installation can pose severe risks, necessitating compliance with standards and regulations. Experience in pool inspection in Frisco, McKinney, and Allen allows inspectors to easily identify common issues. Having high-quality equipment will not only benefit you in daily maintenance but can significantly impact the inspection results. Hydration Safety Tips for National Hydration Day As National Hydration Day approaches, Texas homeowners can focus on staying hydrated, especially during pool seasons. The combination of sun exposure and physical activities by the pool can lead to dehydration. Here are some helpful tips to keep everyone safe and hydrated: Set Up a Hydration Station Designate a specific area around the pool for hydration. Fill it with water bottles, infusers, and electrolyte drinks. Making it easy for family and guests to grab a drink will encourage proper hydration. Incorporate Hydrating Foods Snacks like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges are excellent ways to supplement fluid intake. They not only provide hydration but are also delicious and refreshing, especially in hot weather. Remind Regular Drinking Establish regular intervals for drinks. Setting a timer can be effective. For example, make it a habit to drink water every hour, even if it's just a small amount. Monitor Symptoms of Dehydration Educate family members about the symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness, fatigue, or dry mouth. Recognizing these signs early can make a significant difference. Encourage a Hydrated Fun Engage in water-based games that naturally encourage taking breaks to drink water. Everyone will find it easier to stay hydrated while having fun in the water. By prioritizing hydration, homeowners can enjoy their pools safely and healthily. Common Issues Found in Frisco, McKinney, and Allen Pools Homeowners in Frisco, McKinney, and Allen often face specific challenges concerning their pools. Here are some common issues that can arise: Equipment Malfunction Many homes experience problems with outdated or poor-quality equipment that leads to frequent malfunctions. This can result in costly repair bills and high energy usage. Water Quality Challenges Due to the high summer heat and humidity, maintaining optimal water quality can be tricky. Algae growth and fluctuating pH levels are common concerns that require diligent chemical adjustments. Safety Concerns As mentioned earlier, not all residential pools comply with local safety regulations, particularly concerning barriers and drainage systems. Homeowners must ensure that their pools are not only enjoyable but dangerous. Seasonal Repairs Texas weather can wreak havoc on pool structures, especially during storms. Ongoing maintenance is crucial for ensuring the integrity of a pool throughout the seasons. Addressing these issues proactively can save homeowners both time and money while ensuring a safe and enjoyable pool environment. Conclusion In summary, high-quality pool equipment is essential for improving home efficiency and ensuring safety for pool owners. By understanding what inspectors look for during a pool inspection and following hydration tips as National Hydration Day approaches, Texas homeowners can enjoy their pools to the fullest. Regular maintenance, combined with knowledge of common issues, can lead to safer swimming experiences in Frisco, McKinney, and Allen, fostering a healthy lifestyle in the warmth of the Texan sun. A pristine pool ready for summer fun Remember, the combination of a well-maintained pool and staying hydrated is the key to a fulfilling summer experience. Happy swimming!

Pool Inspection Texas: How High-Quality Equipment Improves Efficiency & Hydration Safety

Learn how professional pool inspections in Texas help homeowners improve energy efficiency and stay safe during peak summer heat.

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As winter approaches, it’s important for homeowners in Texas to prepare for potential winter storms. With the recent increase in electric bills in Texas, it’s more important than ever to ensure your home is ready for the colder months. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips from home inspectors on how to prepare for winter storms in Texas and avoid high electric bills. Why Are Electric Bills So High in Texas Right Now? Understanding the Situation In February 2021, Texas experienced an unprecedented winter storm that caused widespread power outages and skyrocketing electric bills. This was due to a combination of factors, including high demand for electricity due to the cold weather, power plants being offline for maintenance, and a lack of winterization of the state’s energy infrastructure. Many Texans had to pay much more for electricity, which caused financial problems for many families. This has led to a greater focus on preparing for winter storms and avoiding high electric bills in the future. Tips for Preparing Your Home for Winter Storms Inspect Your Home’s Insulation One of the most important steps in preparing for winter storms is to ensure your home is properly insulated. This will not only keep your home warm during the colder months, but it can also help reduce your electric bills. As home inspectors, we can identify any areas where insulation may be lacking or damaged. Most common places would be the attic or walls. We can also recommend the best type of insulation for your home and provide tips on how to improve its effectiveness. Give Green Scene Home Inspections a call and we have the tools to inspect this for you! Check Your Heating System Before the winter season arrives, it’s important to have your heating system inspected by a professional. This will help ensure that it is functioning properly and efficiently, which can help reduce your electric bills. As home inspectors, we can check for any issues with your heating system, such as clogged filters or faulty components. We are also able to provide recommendations for repairs or replacements if needed. Additionally, we can provide tips on how to maintain your heating system so it runs smoothly throughout the winter. Seal Any Drafts Drafts in your home can make it more difficult to stay warm. They also cause your electric bills to increase. This happens because drafts allow cold air to come in and warm air to escape. Sealing any drafts in your home before winter storms arrive is important. We find drafts in homes and suggest ways to seal them, like around windows and doors. This can include using weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps and cracks. Inspect Your Roof Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so it’s important to ensure it is in good condition before winter storms hit. We can check your roof for damage or problems like missing shingles or leaks and suggest repairs or maintenance. A well-maintained roof can help prevent heat from escaping your home and reduce the risk of damage from winter storms. Prepare for Power Outages Many of you experienced this during the Snowmageddon of 2021 in Texas but, power outages are common and can last for extended periods of time. Being prepared for these situations is important to ensure the safety and comfort of your family. As home inspectors, we recommend emergency supplies to have on hand, such as flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food. To keep your home warm and reduce costly electric bills, we recommend using a generator as a backup power source. How to Avoid High Electric Bills During Winter Storms Use a Programmable Thermostat A smart thermostat can save you money on electricity by adjusting your home's temperature according to your schedule. This can be especially helpful during winter storms when you may be using more electricity to keep your home warm. We can recommend the top programmable thermostats for your home. Additionally, we can provide helpful tips on how to use them efficiently. By following these tips, you can save money on your electricity bills. Take Advantage of Natural Light During the winter, the sun can provide natural warmth and light for your home. Take advantage of this by opening curtains and blinds during the day to let in natural light and warmth. This can help reduce your reliance on electric lighting and heating, ultimately lowering your electric bills. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances If you’re in the market for new appliances, consider investing in energy-efficient models. These appliances use less energy, which can help reduce your electric bills during winter storms. We can suggest energy-efficient appliances and explain the energy ratings and costs of different models. Getting ready for winter storms in Texas is important for your family's safety, comfort, and to avoid expensive electric bills. Follow Green Scene Home Inspections' tips to prepare your home for winter storms and use less electricity during them. Stay safe and warm this winter by preparing your home now.

Preparing for Winter Storms in Texas - Home Inspector Tips

As winter approaches, it’s important for homeowners in Texas to prepare for potential winter storms. With the recent increase in electric...

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In North Texas, we hardly ever have a chance to use our fireplaces. But when temperatures drop to 30-40 degrees outside, we eagerly anticipate the warmth of a nice cozy fire. The fireplace becomes the epicenter of the home when the weather and/or the time is right. Most of us just throw in some wood or turn the gas on and turn on the TV, right? Picture this- You buy a new house and you try to use the fireplace for the first time. Smoke fills the house causing a fire to start. Not ideal and quite frankly, a nightmare. The (NFPA) National Fire Protection Association has standards for the levels of inspections for fireplaces and chimneys. Before 2000, it was up to the company doing the inspection how thorough that inspection must be. NFPA now has three levels of certifications. Level 1 The most basic of inspections is done when performing an annual chimney sweep. After cleaning the chimney, a level 1 inspection is done to visually check the fireplace's basic construction and mechanisms. The inspector checks the fireplace chimney to ensure it is clear of obstructions that could block the flue. Level 2 If you need a level 2 inspection, it's most likely because of structure changes. Examples include changing the fuel type, changes in material, or the shape of the flue (relining). A level 2 inspection should also be done when the property changes homeowners. Level 3 This inspection is thorough and may involve a technician dismantling parts of the structure for further examination. These technicians have the proper equipment to inspect deeper down into the chimney and flue. This inspection will help us determine if the chimney has been rebuilt or if the back wall bricks have been replaced. These are two of the most common repairs that chimneys and fireplaces undertake in their lifetimes. Fireplace Safety If you have a wood-burning fireplace, make sure to remove any ashes and debris from the firebox after each use. To clean gas fireplaces, use a gentle cleaner to remove soot and buildup from the glass doors and interior. Use the right fuel for your fireplace, whether it's wood or gas, to prevent harm or danger. For wood-burning fireplaces, use only seasoned hardwood, as it produces less creosote and burns more efficiently. For gas fireplaces, make sure to use the recommended type of gas and follow the builder's instructions. Over time, the heat from your fireplace can cause cracks and damage to the firebox and chimney. Checking for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose bricks, or missing mortar, and addressing them promptly is essential. If left unattended, these issues can worsen and lead to costly repairs. If you have questions about fireplace inspections, give us a call! #fireplacesafety #dallashomeinspector #fireplaceinspection

Don't Roast Your Chestnuts in an Unsafe Fireplace

In North Texas, we hardly ever have a chance to use our fireplaces. But when temperatures drop to 30-40 degrees outside, we eagerly...

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When it comes to buying a new home, it's important to make sure that everything is in good condition. This is where a home inspection comes in. A home inspection is a thorough examination of a property's condition, usually performed by a professional inspector. Regular home inspections concentrate on important areas like the foundation, roof, and plumbing. However, using thermal imaging can improve the quality of your inspection. What is the definition of Thermal Imaging? Thermal imaging is a type of technology that uses special cameras to find out how much heat an object gives off. This technology is used in many different industries, like the military and medical fields. It has also become more popular in the home inspection industry. How do we perform this service? Thermal cameras work by detecting the infrared radiation emitted by objects. The camera then converts this radiation into a visual image, with different colors representing different temperatures. This allows the inspector to see areas of the home that may have temperature differences, indicating potential issues. Green Scene utilizes the best high-end FLIR video cameras. Our cameras provide the best resolution, which results in more accurate inspections. While our thermal video cameras don't allow X-Ray vision, they help us find problems that the naked eye can't see. What can thermal imaging detect? This service can detect a variety of issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. These include: Electrical issues: Infrared can detect hot spots in electrical systems, which can indicate potential fire hazards. Moisture intrusion: Thermal can find moisture intrusion by detecting temperature differences. Moisture intrusion can cause mold and damage to the structure. Insulation problems: Thermal can detect areas of missing or damaged insulation. These problems can lead to energy loss and higher utility bills. HVAC issues: Thermal imaging can identify areas of heat loss or air leakage in the HVAC system. This can affect the efficiency of the system which you want to avoid. Why use thermal imaging for a home inspection? Using infrared for a home inspection can provide a more comprehensive and accurate assessment of the property's condition. Anything that is not completely cold releases warmth in the infrared world, including ice. The higher the temperature of an object, the more infrared radiation it gives off. In Texas, using thermographic imaging is useful because there are big differences in temperature inside and outside during the summer and winter. For the most accurate thermal imaging scans, a significant temperature difference (at least 20 ° F) between indoor and outdoor temperatures is encouraged. Thermal can save time and money by identifying potential issues before they become major problems. Additionally, this service can provide evidence of any issues found, which can be used in negotiations with the seller. In conclusion Thermal imaging is a valuable tool for homeowners to receive a more thorough assessment of your home. Using this technology in your home inspection process can help you provide the best service to your clients. If you are buying a new house, make sure to hire a home inspector who uses thermal imaging to do a thorough inspection. Find out more about adding Thermal Imaging to your inspection here. #homeinspectiontips #thermalimagingdallas #whatisthermalimagingcamerausedfor

Why Thermal Imaging for a Home Inspection

When it comes to buying a new home, it's important to make sure that everything is in good condition. This is where a home inspection...

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A new home buyer can be in the honeymoon phase of their home-buying experience – until the dreaded home inspector arrives! At Green Scene Home Inspections, we like to think our inspectors inspire confidence in the home-buying process. We are not here to scare you, but to inform you. One of our common services takes place in Pier and Beam construction of homes from the 50’s and 60’s. One of the places our inspectors boldly go where no one else will go is…..THE CRAWL SPACE. The crawl space is that unpleasant place under the house where many possible creatures and conditions can exist. Why is it even necessary to look at the crawl space you may ask? Despite their lack of visibility and attention, crawlspaces are integral to the structural integrity and efficiency of a home. You can find links to plumbing, air ducts, electrical wiring, and other systems important for your home's function. Crawlspaces play a crucial role in maintaining the structural stability of a house. By providing a solid foundation and support for the floors above, crawlspaces help distribute the weight of the building evenly. This can prevent sagging, settling, and other structural issues that can arise over time. Regular inspections and maintenance of the crawlspace can ensure that it continues to provide reliable support for the home. What if, under the smooth veneer of a recently updated home, there exists a plumbing leak into the crawl space? What if ducts are leaking conditioned air into the crawl space, causing your electric bills to be high? Not to mention termite damage or mold growth that can occur as a result of long term leaks or moisture intrusion. These are not items you would ever spot when walking through a newly painted and carpeted home! Properly ventilated crawlspaces can contribute to improved indoor air quality. By allowing fresh air to circulate, crawlspaces can help prevent moisture and mold, avoiding respiratory issues and other health problems. Additionally, crawlspaces can help regulate the temperature and humidity levels in a house, creating a more comfortable living environment. Properly insulating crawlspaces is important to ensure these benefits. Crawlspaces can also contribute to energy efficiency in a home. Insulating the crawlspace walls and floor keeps the heat in during winter and reduces the need for excessive cooling in summer. This can result in lower energy bills and a more sustainable living space. Proper sealing of the crawlspace can also prevent drafts and cold spots in the home, further enhancing comfort and efficiency. A well-maintained crawlspace can also increase the value of a home. Potential buyers often appreciate the easy access to utilities and know that the house is protected from pests and flooding. A clean, dry, and well-ventilated crawlspace can be a selling point that sets your home apart from others on the market. We know that the crawl space is an important place to maintain and be aware of as a homeowner. And remember, if you find issues in the crawl space, you can repair almost anything in a home! We take pride in presenting the most thorough findings on what may be the most important investment you'll make. So if you have a crawlspace, call Green Scene Home Inspections for an expert opinion! #crawlspace #pierandbeam #EastDallas #dallashomeinspector

Crawl Spaces Aren't So Scary

A new home buyer can be in the honeymoon phase of their home-buying experience – until the dreaded home inspector arrives! At Green Scene...

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As the summer season comes to a close, it's the perfect time for homeowners to start thinking about fall home maintenance. Conducting a thorough inspection and addressing potential issues can ensure your home is efficient throughout the colder months. In this blog, we'll highlight essential tips for preparing your home for fall, recommended by Green Scene Home Inspections. 1. Clean and Inspect Gutters One of the most important tasks to tackle before the fall season is cleaning and inspecting your gutters. Over the summer, leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate in your gutters, causing them to clog. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and possibly even issues with the homes' foundation. It's not just about removing the debris; it's also about inspecting the gutters for any signs of damage. If you notice any cracks or leaks, make sure to repair them before the rainy season begins. Pay close attention to areas where shingles may have curled or cracked, as these can be vulnerable to leaks as well. These minor issues can escalate into major problems that could potentially damage your home's structure. 2. Check Your Roof Another crucial area to inspect before the fall season is your roof. Look for any loose or damaged shingles that may need to be replaced. Check for any signs of leaks or water damage on the ceiling inside your home. It's also a good idea to clean any debris, such as leaves or branches, off your roof to prevent them from clogging your gutters. Your roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements, so it's essential to ensure it's in good condition. If you're not comfortable inspecting the roof yourself, consider hiring a professional to do it for you. They have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely and effectively inspect your roof. 3. HVAC System Maintenance Clogged filters can restrict airflow, reducing the efficiency of your system and could lead to increased energy bills. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your HVAC but also improves indoor air quality. It's a good idea to schedule a professional HVAC inspection before the fall season. A qualified technician can inspect and clean your HVAC system, ensuring that it's running efficiently. They can also identify any potential issues and make necessary repairs before the colder months arrive. 4. Inspect Your Chimney and Fireplace Before you start using your fireplace, it's essential to have it inspected and cleaned. Look for any buildup of creosote, a highly flammable substance that can accumulate in the chimney over time. Creosote buildup is a significant fire hazard that should be removed regularly. Hire a professional chimney sweep to remove any buildup that may have accumulated in your chimney. This will help prevent chimney fires and ensure that your fireplace is safe to use. Remember, a clean fireplace is not just about aesthetics; it's also about safety. A dirty chimney can lead to carbon monoxide buildup, which can be deadly. 5. Seal Exterior Gaps and Cracks As the temperatures drop, it's important to seal any gaps or cracks in your home to prevent drafts and heat loss. Sealing openings prevents water and cold air from seeping in and keeps pests out. Cracks in the foundation can worsen over time and allow water to seep into your basement or crawl space. Inspect the windows and doors for any gaps or cracks and apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal them. This will not only keep your home warm but also save you money on heating bills. It's a simple task that can have a significant impact on your home's energy efficiency and comfort. 6. Check Insulation and Insulate Pipes Poor insulation can lead to energy loss and uneven temperatures in different areas of your home. Consider adding or upgrading insulation to ensure a more comfortable and energy-efficient living space. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs. Insulate any exposed pipes in your home, especially those in unheated areas such as the basement or attic. You can use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to protect your pipes from freezing. This is a simple and cost-effective way to prevent a major disaster. A burst pipe can cause significant water damage to your home and belongings, which you want to avoid. Green Scene's home energy assessment helps you find ways to improve your home, like adding insulation. 7. Clean and Test Smoke Detectors Fall is a great time to clean and test your smoke detectors. Replace the batteries and vacuum any dust or debris that may have accumulated. Test each smoke detector to ensure that it's working correctly. Smoke detectors are essential for keeping your home safe, so it's important to make sure they are in good working order. Remember, smoke detectors have a lifespan of about 10 years, so if yours are older than that, it might be time to replace them. Also, make sure you have enough smoke detectors in your home. The National Fire Protection Association recommends one in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. 8. Prepare Your Garden Fall is also a great time to prepare your garden for the colder months ahead. Remove any dead plants or weeds and trim back any overgrown shrubs or trees. Consider planting fall flowers or vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures. It's also a good idea to fertilize your lawn to help it stay healthy throughout the fall and winter seasons. A well-maintained garden enhances the beauty of your home and provides a relaxing outdoor space for you and your family. Plus, it can attract beneficial insects and birds to your yard. Conclusion Fall is a transitional season that requires homeowners to prepare their houses for colder weather and potential hazards. By following these tips from Green Scene Home Inspections, you can ensure that your home is ready for the fall season. Cleaning, inspecting, and fixing your home regularly saves money and keeps its structure intact. Remember, early action can prevent larger issues, so don't delay in getting your home ready for fall!

Home Maintenance Tips entering Fall Season

As the summer season comes to a close, it's the perfect time for homeowners to start thinking about fall home maintenance. Conducting a...

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Foundation shifting is a common problem in Texas that many homeowners face because of the Texas heat. It can lead to various issues such as cracks in the walls, uneven floors, and doors that don't close properly. In this article, we will discuss signs of foundation shifting and what you can do to fix them. Cracks in the walls Horizontal cracks: Cracks on walls indicate foundation movement and people usually see them in the middle or upper sections. They are usually wider at the ends and narrower in the middle. Horizontal cracks that are wider than 1/4 inch are a red flag. Vertical cracks: These cracks can appear from the floor to the ceiling and are often a result of foundation settling. They can be wider at the bottom and narrower at the top. Stair-step cracks: These cracks resemble a staircase and typically occur in brick or concrete block walls. They are a clear indication of foundation movement. Pop Quiz: What kind of foundation crack is pictured above? If you said this picture resembles a stair-case crack, you are correct! Uneven floors Sloping floors: If you notice that your floors are not level, it could be a sign of foundation shifting. You may feel like you are walking uphill or downhill in certain areas of your home that may be unstable. Bouncy or sagging floors: Foundation shifting can cause the floors to become weak and unstable. If you feel a bounce or sag when walking on your floors, it's time to investigate further. Doors and windows that don't close properly Sticking Doors: If your doors suddenly start sticking or become difficult to close, foundation shifting could be causing it. This is because the door frames may become misaligned. Windows: Foundation shifting can also affect windows, causing them to not open or close, just like doors. If your windows don't open or close smoothly, it possible that there's a problem with your foundation. Cabinets and Countertops: If your cabinets and countertops move away from the wall, it may be the foundation shifting. Preventative Measures: Proper Drainage: Ensuring proper drainage around your home is crucial. Poor drainage can lead to excessive water collecting near the foundation, which could lead to increased soil expansion. Maintain Consistent Moisture Levels: Keep the moisture levels around your foundation as consistent as possible. You can place a soaker hose around the perimeter to maintain a steady moisture balance. Install a Root Barrier: Plant roots can draw moisture from the soil. Installing a root barrier can help prevent this. Regular Foundation Maintenance: Schedule annual home inspections with a professional to catch any potential issues early. Consult Green Scene Home Inspections to find the issues and solutions for the foundation of your home. Neglecting foundation problems is a serious issue and can result in additional harm and expensive restoration work in the future.

Foundation Shifting in Texas: A homeowner's guide

Foundation shifting is a common problem in Texas that many homeowners face because of the Texas heat. It can lead to various issues such...

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Summers in Texas are hard on your home and it's more important than ever to keep up with home maintenance tasks. Here are some examples of summer home maintenance that we recommend: 1. Clean Vent Registers Your A/C is getting a workout this summer so it needs a little extra love. Condensation around vents because of the extreme temperature differential between inside and outside can create a breeding ground for mold. Would you feel safe to breathe the air in this house? 2. Water Your Foundation One of the reasons we have so much foundation trouble in our area is because of our soil. During the summer, black clay soil gets super dry and constricts, which can cause it to pull away from the foundation. You want to keep your foundation damp around the perimeter of your home, not wet. Here's a house that hasn't seen a drop of water in awhile: 3. Check For Outdoor Leaks During the summer when water bills are high, it's a good idea to make sure you're not wasting water anywhere. Even a slight drip or pinhole leak in a hose can cause a lot of water usage. A leaky faucet could lead to bigger problems, as in this video: Take care of your home seasonally with these home maintenance tips to keep it running efficiently and save on costly repairs.

Summer Home Maintenance for Texas Homes

Summers in Texas are hard on your home and it's more important than ever to keep up with home maintenance tasks. Here are some examples...

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As the weather begins warming up, ensuring your home's central air conditioner is adequately prepared for summer is essential. You can use these tips to ensure your AC unit is in good working order. Check the filters and coils, clean as needed, or schedule a professional maintenance checkup. With these tips, you'll be cool and comfortable all summer long! Check the filters If your home's air quality is not as fresh as it used to be, or if your furnace or AC system seems to be working harder than usual, it might be time to check your filters. You should ideally replace your filter every one to three months. When choosing replacement filters, make sure to select the right size and type for your AC unit. Many hardware and home improvement stores sell universal filters that can be cut to fit a variety of HVAC systems. However, these may not be as effective as filters designed for your unit. Replacing your filters is a quick and easy way to improve your home's air quality. Inspect the condenser coils The condenser coils are a crucial part of your air conditioning system. They help to cool the air as it passes through the unit. If these coils become dirty, they can cause your air conditioner to work less efficiently. Make sure to inspect your air conditioner's coils every few months and clean them as needed. If it's not working correctly, you could waste energy or have an expensive repair bill! This will help to keep your air conditioner working properly. Inspect the evaporator coils Inspecting and cleaning your condenser coils regularly will help prolong the life of your AC unit and keep it running as effectively as possible. To clean the coils, remove any debris or build-up that may have accumulated on them using a soft brush or cloth. If the build-up is particularly stubborn, you may also need to use a commercial cleaner specifically for condenser coils. Verify the air conditioner's thermostat is working properly Always ensure that its thermostat is working correctly. The thermostat maintains the temperature inside the unit, so if it isn't functioning properly, your AC unit may be unable to maintain a comfortable temperature. You can test the thermostat by setting it to a specific temperature and then checking to see if the unit cools or heats to that temperature within a reasonable amount of time. If the thermostat isn't working correctly, you may need to replace it. Consult your air conditioner's owner's manual or a qualified HVAC technician for assistance. Schedule a professional maintenance checkup for your AC unit. Finally, a professional maintenance checkup for your AC unit is a great way to ensure that it runs efficiently and prolongs its life. During the checkup, a technician will clean the condenser coils and inspect the unit for potential problems. They will also lubricate all the moving parts to prevent premature wear and tear. Having a professional checkup once a year is a great way to keep your AC unit in top condition. Conclusion In conclusion, it is essential to take some time to prepare your home's central air conditioner for summer to ensure that it runs efficiently and effectively all season long. Some simple tips include checking and replacing the filters, inspecting and cleaning the condenser coils, verifying that the thermostat is working properly, or scheduling a professional maintenance checkup. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your air conditioner is ready to keep you cool and comfortable all summer long.

Tips on How to Prepare Your Home's AC For the Summer

As the weather begins warming up, ensuring your home's central air conditioner is adequately prepared for summer is essential. You can...

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It's finally happened! You've found the perfect home and have begun the move-in process. But don't forget about one of the most critical systems in your new home - the heating, air conditioning, and ventilation system (HVAC). This system is crucial for keeping you comfortable all year long, so you must do a quick checkup before moving in. In this blog post, we'll give you a handy HVAC checklist to help you make sure your new home is ready for winter or summer. How Old is Your Unit? The first thing you'll want to do is check the age of the HVAC system. Most systems will last around 15-20 years, so if your new home has an older system, it may need to be replaced soon. You'll also want to ensure that the system is adequately sized for your new home. An undersized system will have to work harder to heat or cool your home, which may cause wear and tear on the system and higher energy bills. Clean Air Filters are Key Next, take a look at the air filters. These should be changed every one to three months and if they hasn't been changed in quite some time, now is the time to do it. Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder than it needs to. The ac unit in your home is an essential part of its operation. From cooling down hot rooms during summertime to heating them when it's cold outside, this machine goes through so much work every day! Thankfully with proper maintenance, you can keep up on all those duties yourself without having any worries about what might happen if something were ever broken or neglected - The coils that distribute coolant throughout each room should be cleaned regularly (at least once every six months) - Make sure there aren't large pieces obstructing airflow around where they enter the thermostat housing. Check the Ducts Finally, take a look at the ductwork. This system carries air throughout your home, so it's essential to ensure it is in good condition. Look for any signs of leaks or damage, and if you find anything, have it repaired before moving in. Otherwise, you'll be wasting energy and money to heat or cool your home. Conclusion Following this simple HVAC checklist ensures that your new home is ready for whatever weather summer throws at you. So don't forget to check things off this list before you move in! You'll be glad you did when your home is nice and comfortable all year. Do you have other tips for prepping your HVAC system before moving into a new home? Please share them with us! And if you're looking for more moving tips, check out our other blogs for the latest advice. Happy moving!

Moving In: Your Home Inspection HVAC Checklist

It's finally happened! You've found the perfect home and have begun the move-in process. But don't forget about one of the most critical...

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Your home is not just a shelter; it's your sanctuary. But even the sturdiest of homes can harbor hidden threats, and one of the sneakiest culprits is moisture. From gradual water leaks to infiltrating dampness, moisture-related issues can quietly wreak havoc, causing damage to structures and fostering mold growth. In this blog post, we'll dive into why a moisture analysis is essential for homeowners and how this proactive step can safeguard your investment. Why Moisture Matters: Moisture might seem harmless, but its effects can be far-reaching and costly. Unchecked moisture can lead to rotting wood, weakened structural integrity, and a thriving breeding ground for mold and pests. These issues not only compromise your home's aesthetic appeal but also pose health risks to your family. Why Opt for a Moisture Analysis? 1. Early Detection: Detecting moisture issues early can prevent extensive damage and costly repairs. A moisture analysis provides insight into hidden problems before they escalate. 2. Preserving Property Value: Regular moisture checks contribute to maintaining your home's market value. A moisture-free home is a more appealing prospect for potential buyers. 3. Health and Safety: Mold growth triggered by moisture can cause allergies and respiratory problems. A moisture analysis safeguards your family's well-being. 4. Energy Efficiency: Moisture can compromise insulation, leading to energy wastage. Addressing moisture promptly can contribute to better energy efficiency. 5. Proactive Maintenance: Taking preventive action against moisture ensures your home stands strong against the elements for years to come. How a Moisture Analysis is Performed: 1. Visual Inspection: Trained professionals conduct a meticulous visual examination, looking for water stains, discoloration, and other telltale signs of moisture problems. 2. Moisture Meters: Specialized tools like moisture meters are employed to measure moisture levels in various materials. These readings pinpoint areas of concern. 3. Detailed Assessment: Problematic areas are thoroughly investigated, including basements, attics, and hidden corners. The collected data guides the analysis. 4. Photographic Documentation: Clear photographs capture the extent of moisture-related damage, aiding in understanding and future action. Protect Your Home Today! Don't wait for moisture to erode your home's foundation, compromise its integrity, or jeopardize your family's health. Invest in a comprehensive moisture analysis to identify and tackle issues early. Safeguard your sanctuary and ensure its lasting value. Contact Green Scene Home Inspections today to schedule your moisture analysis and take a proactive step toward a moisture-free home. Moisture may be silent, but its impact is anything but subtle. As a homeowner, you hold the power to defend your investment against this hidden threat. A moisture analysis not only shields your property but also safeguards your loved ones and promotes a healthier, more resilient living environment. Embrace this essential step and take charge of your home's future today.

The Importance of Moisture Analysis in Your Home

Your home is not just a shelter; it's your sanctuary. But even the sturdiest of homes can harbor hidden threats, and one of the sneakiest...

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Foundation issues can present themselves in many ways. Some often seen signs of foundation problems include cracks in walls or floors, doors and windows that are difficult to open or close, gaps between the house and the garage, sagging floors, and water infiltration. If you notice any of these warning signs, it's essential to have a professional inspect your home's foundation as soon as possible to determine the cause and prevent further damage. It is crucial to take action immediately if you've noticed signs of foundation problems in your home or commercial property, such as cracks in walls, floors, and doors. Many conditions cause these issues, including expanding and contracting soils, inclement weather, and shifting foundations due to aging or damage. If you notice any of the following signs in your home, it's essential to have a professional inspect your foundation as soon as possible. Don't ignore the problem in hopes that it will go away - it won't. Foundation problems only worsen over time, so address them as soon as possible. Foundation issues can be sneaky - they may not present themselves until the damage has already been done. Cracking If you have vinyl, poured concrete, or tile flooring in your home and notice cracks across multiple tiles or tiles raised off the floor, it could be a sign of underlying foundation problems. Other possible indicators include doors and windows that are difficult to open or close, gaps between the house and the garage, sagging floors, and water infiltration. It is essential to address any potential foundation issues as soon as possible to protect your home from further damage and keep it safe for years to come. Many factors can cause cracking, including shifting soils due to aging or damage. Whether you're dealing with new construction on an unstable site, extreme weather conditions like flooding, or heavy rain. Misaligned Porch or Chimney Porches and chimneys that have fallen away from the main structure of your home are another sign of foundation problems. However, it is essential to take into account that this could also indicate a specific problem with the foundation under the porch or chimney. Regardless of where the issue lies, though, it is crucial to address any potential problems with your foundation as soon as possible in order to protect your property and prevent further damage. Suppose you're concerned about potential signs of foundation problems in your home or commercial property. In that case, there are many resources available to help you understand what they mean and how best to address them. The experts at Green Scene Home Inspections can help you spot the warning signs before they become major repairs. Conclusion If you notice any of the signs of foundation problems mentioned above, don't ignore them in hopes that they'll disappear. Foundation issues will only worsen over time, so it's essential to address them as soon as possible. The experts at Green Scene Home Inspections can help you spot the warning signs before they become major repairs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Signs That Your Home May Have a Foundation Problem

Foundation issues can present themselves in many ways. Some often seen signs of foundation problems include cracks in walls or floors,...

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Your home or future home's foundation is one area you should always have inspected before buying or selling. It's essential to ensure safety and hefty repair fees. A professional inspector will evaluate these areas to ensure everything looks good on paper and identify any potential problems to help prevent future issues by walking through every inch and guarantee no surprises below the surface. Signs That You Need a Foundation Inspection You may need a foundation inspection if you notice any of the following signs: -Bulging foundational walls -Large cracks in concrete -Standing water near your property -Uneven slab movement -Sloping floors -Sticking doors and windows How much Does This Type of Inspection Cost? The cost of a foundation inspection largely depends on who is doing the work. Typically, homeowners pay between $350 and $500. An experienced professional will assess the causes and costs involved in different problems to know what to expect when it comes time to fix or restore your home! The Exterior and Interior Perimeter of Your House The first step in an inspection is to walk around the house's exterior, looking for any bulge areas. This can be an indication of an uneven load on the substructure. The walls of both the home and the substructure should always be level and flush. The inspector will also look for any potential water damage and cracks in concrete. Standing water can cause soil shifting, which often leads to severe damage. It can also be a sign of dripping pipes in the home. The inspectors will then check the home's interior walls for any damage. Doors and windows get checked to see if they are sticking; if so, this could signify that the house is settling and the frame is no longer level. Structure issues are severe, as well as it is an excellent suggestion to comprehend how to see them and make sure that you can have them dealt with as soon as possible. The last step in the inspection process is to check the crawl space or basement. The inspector will look for water damage and cracks in walls or floors. They will also check for any signs of mold or mildew. Having a foundation inspection can give you peace of mind and help you avoid costly repairs down the road. If you notice any signs of foundation damage, contact a professional for an inspection as soon as possible. After the inspection, the inspector will report their findings and recommendations. If any repairs or improvements are necessary, it is essential to have them done as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your home.

What to Expect from a Foundation Inspection

Your home or future home's foundation is one area you should always have inspected before buying or selling. It's essential to ensure...

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Living in Texas, be prepared for a sunny day and then a thunderstorm or tornado warning the next day. Here are a few recommendations that may keep you and your loved ones safe in your house, apartment, or mobile home. The first rule is to put safety first. If you can leave early and go to a safer location, do so. But if you're stuck at home, knowing the safest place in your house can mean the difference between life and death. The second rule is to take shelter immediately. Don't wait until the last minute or try to outrun the storm. Get to your designated safe place as quickly as possible and stay there until the danger has passed. When it comes to severe weather, every situation is different. Here are some general guidelines for finding the safest place in your home. Safety in Houses In the event of severe weather, the safest place in your home is usually an interior room on the lowest level. This could be a basement, a storm shelter, or even an interior closet or bathroom on the first floor. The key is to find a space away from windows and exterior walls, which are more likely to be damaged. If you don't have a basement or your home is not built to withstand severe weather, your best bet is to find the strongest part of the house and hunker down there. This might mean going to an interior room on the upper floor or taking shelter in a hallway. The important thing is to stay away from windows and exterior walls and stay as low to the ground as possible. Safety in Apartments If you live in an apartment, call your apartment complex or management company and ask where the best shelter is in the building. If severe weather is coming and you have time, the best thing is to get to a lower level, with as many walls between you and the outside. This will help protect you from flying debris and other dangers with severe weather. Once you're in your safe space, stay there until the danger has passed. Remember, the most important thing is to take shelter immediately and stay there. By minding these tips, you can increase your odds of weathering the storm safely. Safety in Mobile Homes The best option is to evacuate the mobile home and find a more solid structure to take shelter. Seek out a public storm shelter. These are typically located in schools, government buildings, or other large structures. If you live in a mobile home park, there may also be a community storm shelter that you can use. Contact your local emergency officials to see if there are any public shelters in the area. If you are unable to evacuate, lie down in the lowest area of your home and protect your head and neck with blankets, pillows, or whatever else you have on hand. Try to stay away from windows, and be aware that the walls of a mobile home offer very little protection from severe weather. Conclusion In conclusion, it's essential to be prepared for severe weather, whether you live in a mobile home or an apartment. If you live in a mobile home, evacuation to a safe shelter before the storm arrives is your best option. Living in an apartment, get to the lowest floor possible and stay there until the danger has passed.

Spring Showers: What's the safest place in your home in case of severe weather?

Living in Texas, be prepared for a sunny day and then a thunderstorm or tornado warning the next day. Here are a few recommendations that...

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As the temperatures drop, now is the perfect time to get your home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system ready for winter. By inspecting your HVAC system thoroughly, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your family comfortable all season long. Here's a checklist of what to look for when you inspect your HVAC system this winter: Furnace Inspection Tips: Check the vents. Ensure all the vents in your home are open and debris-free. Closed vents can cause your furnace to overheat, damaging the system or starting a fire. Inspect the blower belt. The blower belt is a large rubber band that helps move air through the furnace. Over time, the belt can become worn or frayed. If you notice any damage, replace the belt before turning on your furnace for the season. Clean the blower blades. The blower blades help circulate air through your home. They won't work as efficiently if they're covered in dust or debris. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the blades gently. Examine the burner flame. The burner flame should be blue with yellow tips. If it's primarily yellow or flickering, it could indicate that too much fuel is being delivered to the burner. This could create a serious safety hazard, so call a professional immediately if you notice anything abnormal. Check the flue pipe. The flue pipe carries poisonous gases like carbon monoxide out of your home. So it's essential to make sure it's in good working order. Inspect the line for cracks or holes that could allow gas to escape your home. If you find any damage, call a professional to have it repaired or replaced before using your furnace this winter. AC Unit Inspection Tips: Clean off the unit. Start by clearing away any leaves, branches, or other debris that may have collected on top of or around your AC unit during the fall. Trim back any nearby plants, so they're at least two feet away from the unit—this will help improve airflow and prevent future problems. Inspect the coils. The coils inside your AC unit can become dirty over time—and dirty coils can't effectively cool your home. Clean them off with a garden hose (make sure you disconnect power to the unit first!) and straighten any bent fins with a fin comb—this will help improve airflow and prevent future problems. During your inspection, also make sure there aren't any leaks in the coil wrap—if there are, call a professional immediately so they can be repaired. Check for leaks in the Freon lines These lines connect your AC unit to an outdoor compressor and can develop leaks over time. To check for leaks, hold a mirror up to each line while someone turns on the power to the unit. If you see bubbles forming in front of either line, a leak must be fixed by a professional before using your AC this summer. Conclusion Inspecting your HVAC system thoroughly will save you money and headaches. Following this simple checklist, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your family comfortable all winter! If you require a professional home inspection, give us a call for peace of mind this winter: https://www.greenscenehomeinspections.com/onlinebooking

A Checklist for Your Winter HVAC Inspection

As the temperatures drop, now is the perfect time to get your home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system ready for...

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As another cold winter arrives, it is time to start thinking about your roof and how to keep it in tip-top shape. After all, your roof is one of the most critical parts of your home, and you want to ensure it can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws. Here are a few tips to help you get started: 1. Inspect your roof regularly. It's always a good idea to perform regular inspections of your roof, but this is especially true during winter. Ice and snow can wreak havoc on your roof, so check for any damaged or missing shingles after every storm. If you see any damage, don't hesitate to call a professional for repairs. 2. Keep your gutters clean. Clogged gutters can cause all sorts of problems, including water damage to your roof. Be sure to clean out your gutters before the first snowfall so that melting snow can drain properly. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent leaves and debris from clogging them in the future. 3. Trim tree branches near your home. Overhanging tree branches can damage your roof in several ways, including cracking shingles and breaking gutter hangers. To avoid this, trim any branches that hang over your roof before the winter weather hits. 4. Invest in ice dam prevention products. Ice dams can cause severe damage to your roof, so it's essential to take steps to prevent them from forming in the first place. Many products on the market can help, including heated cables and membrane systems. Do some research and find the right product for your home so you can rest assured knowing your roof is protected against ice dams. Conclusion Protecting your roof is essential for protecting your home against winter weather damage. Inspect it regularly, clean your gutters, trim tree branches near your home, and invest in ice dam prevention products. Following these simple tips can help ensure that your roof will withstand whatever Mother Nature throws away this winter season. If you're still unsure that your home is winter ready, give us a call for a home maintenance checkup today: https://www.greenscenehomeinspections.com/onlinebooking

Winter Roofing Tips to Keep Your Family Safe

As another cold winter arrives, it is time to start thinking about your roof and how to keep it in tip-top shape. After all, your roof is...

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Winter is here, and it's essential to ensure your home is ready for the cold. From preventing pipes from freezing to keeping your gutters clean, a little preparation can go a long way in maintaining your home during the winter months. Here are five tips to help you out: 1. Bring Outdoor Furniture Inside Once the temperature drops, it's time to bring in any outdoor furniture you don't want to get ruined by the cold weather. This includes patio furniture, gardening tools, and children's toys. If you have a storage shed, now is also an excellent time to start storing away any summer equipment you won't need until next year. 2. Check Your Gutters Leaves and debris can quickly build up in your gutters, which can cause ice dams and other problems. To avoid this, clean your gutters regularly throughout the fall so they're ready for winter. Consider installing gutter guards to help keep them clean. 3. Protect Your Pipes Frozen pipes are the most common winter problems. To prevent this, insulate exposed pipes and allow warm air to circulate around them. It would help if you also opened cabinet doors to allow heat to reach any pipes that run through unheated areas like attics and basements. If you're going on vacation, be sure to leave the heat on so your pipes don't freeze while you're away. 4. Review Your Heating System Before the coldest months set in, it's a good idea to have your heating system serviced by a professional. This will help ensure that it's running efficiently and prevent any unexpected winter breakdowns. Changing your furnace filter regularly throughout the season is also a good idea. 5. Keep an Eye on Your Roof Snow and ice can damage your roof, so keeping an eye on it during winter is essential. If you see any signs of leaking or damage, call a professional immediately to fix the problem before it worsens. Conclusion Following these simple tips can help maintain your home this winter and avoid costly repairs down the road. Take some time now to prepare for the colder months ahead and enjoy a worry-free winter by scheduling a winter home inspection with us today: https://www.greenscenehomeinspections.com/onlinebooking

5 Tips to Maintain Your Home This Winter

Winter is here, and it's essential to ensure your home is ready for the cold. From preventing pipes from freezing to keeping your gutters...

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As the weather gets colder and the days get shorter, it's time to start winter-proofing your home for the months of January and February. No one wants to deal with a burst pipe or a broken furnace in the middle of a snowstorm, so it's important to take proactive steps to ensure your home can withstand the winter months. Fortunately, we've got you covered. Read on for advice from a certified home inspector on preparing your home for winter. 1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters The first line of defense against winter weather is your roof. Make sure that there are no loose or missing shingles and that your gutters are clean and free of debris. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause serious damage to your roof. While you're at it, look at your chimney and ensure there are no cracks or loose bricks. 2. Check Your Windows and Doors Next, take a walk around your home and check all the windows and doors to ensure they're properly sealed. If you have single-pane windows, now is an excellent time to upgrade to double-pane windows—not only will they help keep warmth in, but they'll also reduce noise pollution from outside. If you feel drafts coming from around your doors or windows, use weatherstripping or caulk to seal up any gaps. 3. Test Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors This one is important for both safety and insurance purposes. Most home insurance policies require that you have working smoke detectors in your home, so it's important to test them regularly (at least once a month) and replace the batteries as needed. You should also have at least one carbon monoxide detector on each level of your home. If you still need to get them, now is a good time to invest in some! 4. Service Your HVAC System Before the coldest weather hits, it's a good idea to have your furnace serviced by a professional. This will help prolong its lifespan and ensure it's running as efficiently as possible—both of which will save you money in the long run. Once winter arrives, make sure to change your furnace filter regularly (once every three months is usually sufficient). Conclusion These are just a few things you can do to prepare your home for winter weather. By taking these steps now, you can avoid costly repairs down the road and rest assured knowing that your home is safe and sound when temperatures drop. Give us a call for a winter home maintenance checkup or book online at https://www.greenscenehomeinspections.com/onlinebooking today!

Ensure Your Home is Winter-Ready with These Tips from An Expert

As the weather gets colder and the days get shorter, it's time to start winter-proofing your home for the months of January and February....

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Introduction Fire sprinkler systems are an essential part of any home fire safety plan. In the event of a fire, a properly functioning fire sprinkler system can help contain the fire and prevent extensive damage to your home. However, your fire sprinkler system must be regularly inspected and maintained for it to work correctly. This blog post will discuss why regular fire sprinkler system inspections are necessary. How they work First, it's crucial to understand how fire sprinkler systems work. A typical home fire sprinkler system is made up of a network of pipes that are connected to a water source. These pipes are installed throughout the home and lead to strategically placed sprinkler heads. In the event of a fire, heat activates a fusible link in the sprinkler head, which opens the valve and allows water to flow through the pipes and onto the fire. Importance of Getting them Inspected Now that we know how they work, let's discuss why regular inspections are so important. First and foremost, periodic inspections help ensure that your system is in good working condition and can do its job in the event of a fire. Additionally, regular inspections can help you identify problems with your system before they become serious—and expensive—issues. For example, if a small leak is detected during an inspection, it can be quickly repaired before it leads to significant water damage. Finally, most insurance companies require proof of regular fire sprinkler system inspections to provide coverage. So, not only are regular inspections necessary for ensuring the safety of your home, but they're also crucial for maintaining your insurance coverage. Conclusion Regular fire sprinkler system inspections are vital for ensuring that your system is in good working condition and can do its job in the event of a fire. Additionally, regular inspections can help you identify problems with your system before they become serious—and expensive—issues. Be sure to have your system inspected at least once per year by a qualified professional. Give us a call at Green Scene Home Inspections today.

The Importance of Fire Sprinkler System Inspections

Introduction Fire sprinkler systems are an essential part of any home fire safety plan. In the event of a fire, a properly functioning...

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Introduction Swimming pools are a great addition to any home. They provide a fun place to cool off during the summer months and a place to gather with family and friends. However, pools also require regular maintenance and upkeep. Because of this, it's crucial to have a pool inspection whenever you're considering buying a home with one. Here's what you should look for when having a pool inspection performed. 1. Overall Condition The first thing you should check is the condition of the pool itself. This includes things like cracks in the concrete, build-up on the tile, and whether or not the pool is leaking. If the pool has significant problems, it's important to get them fixed before using it. Otherwise, you could end up damaging the pool further or causing injuries. 2. Equipment Status Next, you'll want to check the condition of the pool equipment. This includes things like the pump, filter, and ladder. Make sure everything is in good working order, and there are no signs of wear and tear. Also, check to see if any loose screws or bolts need to be tightened. 3. Water Level and Quality Finally, you'll want to test the water quality. This includes checking the pH levels and ensuring enough chlorine is in the water. You can usually find test strips at your local hardware store. If you're not comfortable testing the water yourself, you can always hire a professional to do it for you. Conclusion A swimming pool is an excellent addition to any home, but it's essential to have it inspected before making an offer on the house with one. By following these tips, you can be sure that you're getting a pool that is safe and in good working order. Curious about the condition of your pool? Give us a call at Green Scene Home Inspections.

3 Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Home with a Pool

Introduction Swimming pools are a great addition to any home. They provide a fun place to cool off during the summer months and a place...

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Introduction As a homeowner, you may be curious about how to save water and lower your monthly bills. Read along for a few easy tips on how to get started: 1. Get a water-efficient showerhead A simple way to cut down on water usage is to install a water-efficient shower head. Easy and small changes like this can save you up to 2,900 gallons of water per year, or the equivalent of 10 shower heads worth of water! You can find these shower heads at most hardware stores. 2. Fix leaky faucets A leaky faucet can waste upwards of 2,700 gallons of water annually, so fixing them as soon as possible is essential. If you have some tools around the house and a little bit of DIY in you, this task can be accomplished quite easily. However, if you're not confident in your DIY skills or simply don't have the time to fix the leak, calling a plumber is an option as well. 3. Don't let the water run when brushing your teeth Not letting the water run is one of the easiest ways to save water since this requires simply turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth. Doing this can save up to 8 gallons of water per day! 4. Water your plants during the cooler hours of the day. If you water your plants during the hottest hours of the day, much of the evaporation process will happen before the water even reaches the roots. Instead, water them in the early morning or evening when it's not quite as hot outside. 5. Use a rainwater collection tank Capturing the natural rain process is a great way to save water, especially if you have plants that need watering frequently. You can use the rainwater to keep your plants refreshed, and any excess can be used for other purposes around the house, like flushing toilets or washing clothes. Conclusion: Implementing even a few tips can help you save water and money each month. Do your part to conserve resources and help the environment by making small changes in your daily routine!

5 Ways to Save Water at Home

Introduction As a homeowner, you may be curious about how to save water and lower your monthly bills. Read along for a few easy tips on...

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Whether you're a first-time homeowner or have owned your home for years, it's always a good idea to be aware of the most common electrical mistakes found during a home inspection. Not only can these mistakes be financially costly to fix, but they can also pose a severe safety hazard to you and your family. Here are 5 of the most common electrical mistakes found during a home inspection: 1. Improperly grounded outlets One of the most common electrical mistakes discovered during a home inspection is improperly grounded outlets. This occurs when the neutral wire is not connected to the outlet box, which can cause serious shock or fire hazards. 2. Lack of GFCIs Another common electrical mistake is the lack of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs). GFCIs are devices installed in areas with potential shock hazards, such as near sinks or damp locations. Without them, you and your family are at risk for injury or even death. 3. Exposed wiring Exposed wiring is another hazard that is often found during a home inspection. This can happen when wires are not adequately enclosed in an electrical box or when electrical tape is used instead of wire nuts to secure connections. Exposed wiring can result in shocks or fires, so it's essential to have any exposed wiring repaired as soon as possible. 4. Incompatible circuit breakers Incompatible circuit breakers are another mistake that is commonly found during a home inspection. This happens when circuit breakers of different sizes are used on the same circuit, which can cause the breaker to trip or even start a fire. 5. Outdated electrical panels Finally, outdated electrical panels are often found during a home inspection. This occurs when the panel does not have enough capacity to handle the current electrical load, which can cause overheating and potentially start a fire. Conclusion If you're planning on having a home inspection, it's essential to be aware of the most common electrical mistakes that are found during these inspections. Knowing what to look for, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your family safe from potential hazards. If any of these problems are present in your home, give Green Scene Home Inspections a call today for peace of mind.

5 Common Electrical Mistakes Found in a Home Inspection

Whether you're a first-time homeowner or have owned your home for years, it's always a good idea to be aware of the most common...

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An electrical fire is one of the most devastating things that can happen to a home. Not only can it destroy your belongings, but it can also put your family in danger. Luckily, preventing an electrical fire from happening in your home is achievable with a few simple steps. Check Your Wiring You might wonder how a simple electrical short can cause so much damage. The truth is, it's not just the size or proximity of your wiring that matters - but also its condition! Electrical devices have different requirements when it comes to power supplies, and they each have their own set of guidelines for what type will work well with them without causing too many problems in return (or worse, burning down). If you want safe living at home, then make sure all those wires are tied together neatly behind an outlet where nobody could trip on them during dinner time chaos. Over time, wires can deteriorate, leaving them frayed or damaged, leading to a short circuit. If your home is older, it's a good idea to have an electrician come out and look at your wiring to ensure it's up to code. Don't Overload Your Outlets Another common cause of electrical fires is overloading outlets. When you plug multiple appliances into one outlet, you're putting strain on the wiring, which can eventually lead to a fire. To avoid this, try to plug only one appliance into each outlet. And if you find yourself regularly needing more outlets than you have, consider having an electrician install more. Keep Flammable Items Away from Your Outlets It's also important to keep flammable items away from outlets. Things like curtains, blankets, and furniture can easily catch fire if they're too close to an outlet. Make sure to give yourself some extra space around the outlets when possible. Conclusion Following these simple tips can help prevent an electrical fire from happening in your home. Remember, safety is always the top priority when it comes to electricity. If you're unsure about something, don't hesitate to call a Green Scene Home Inspections professional to help.

How to Protect Your Home from an Electrical Fire

An electrical fire is one of the most devastating things that can happen to a home. Not only can it destroy your belongings, but it can...

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If you're a homeowner, there is a solid chance you'll need to hire an electrician at some point. Whether for a simple repair or a brand-new installation, it's essential to ensure you're working with a qualified professional. Here are a few tips to help you find a qualified electrician. Check their credentials. Make sure the electrician is licensed and insured. Ask to see their license and check to see if it's up to date. Get Multiple Quotes Once you've thinned out your list of potential electricians, get bids from each one. Getting quotes will help you compare pricing and ensure you're getting a fair deal. Read Online Reviews Customers who have previously worked with the electrician can be a valuable resource of information. See what others say about their experience before making your final decision. Ask for Referrals Friends, family, and neighbors who also own a home and have had good experiences with an electrician in the past can be a great resource when you're trying to find someone qualified. Interview the Electrician Once you've narrowed down your options, set up a meeting with each electrician on your list. Interviewing them will allow you to ask questions and get to know them better before making your final decision. Conclusion Hiring an electrician doesn't have to be difficult if you follow these simple tips. With just a bit of research before making a decision, you can easily find someone qualified for the job who will do it right the first time, saving you time, energy, and money in the long run!

Tips for Finding a Qualified Electrician

If you're a homeowner, there is a solid chance you'll need to hire an electrician at some point. Whether for a simple repair or a...

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As a homeowner, keeping your family safe from electrical hazards is essential. There are many potential dangers around your home, from wires and outlets to breakers and appliances. Use this checklist to ensure your home is up-to-date and safe for your family. Household electricity is dangerous and can cause serious injuries or even death if not handled with care. In the United States, an average of 430 people die each year from unintentional electrocutions, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). While some electrical accidents are caused by faulty wiring or equipment, many are caused by simple mistakes that could have been easily avoided. That’s why educating yourself, and your family about electrical safety in the home is important. Appliances • Inspect cords on all appliances regularly and replace any frayed or damaged ones. • Do not overload outlets by plugging in too many devices at once. • Unplug small appliances when they’re not in use. • Never use an appliance with a wet hand. • Do not touch an appliance if you’ve just come in contact with water. • Keep appliances away from water sources, such as sinks, tubs, and toilets. Wiring • Inspect all the wiring in your home regularly and replace any that are damaged. • Do not nail or staple wires to walls or baseboards. • Do not overload outlets by plugging in too many devices at once. • Never use extension cords permanently. Breakers and Fuses • Frequently check breakers and fuses to make sure they are operational. • Replace any broken or cracked switches. • Do not use defective light bulbs. Outdoors • Keep all outdoor electrical equipment, such as lights and holiday decorations, away from water sources like rain gutters and sprinklers. • Do not put nails or staples into trees to hang lights; this could damage the tree’s bark, leading to disease or insect infestation. Additional Precautions • If you feel a tingling sensation when you touch an electrical device, do not use it. Have it inspected by a qualified inspector immediately. • If you see sparks coming from an outlet or piece of electrical equipment, unplug them immediately and have them checked by a qualified inspector before using them again. • If an electrical cord runs underneath a carpet, do not place furniture on top, as this could damage the cord and create a fire hazard. Conclusion Following these simple tips can help keep your home safe from electrical hazards. Remember, household electricity is dangerous and should be treated with care. If you have any questions about electrical safety in your home, consult a qualified home inspector with Green Scene Home Inspections today.

Home Electrical Safety Checklist

As a homeowner, keeping your family safe from electrical hazards is essential. There are many potential dangers around your home, from...

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Swimming pools are a great addition to any home, but they can also be a source of stress if cracks begin to form. While not all cracks cause alarm, knowing the difference between surface and structural cracks and what each type of crack means for your pool is crucial. Take a deep dive with us as we examine different types of pool cracks and what they might indicate. Hairline Cracks: One of the most common types of cracks is known as a hairline crack. These cracks are usually very fine and barely visible to the naked eye. While they may not be particularly problematic from a structural standpoint, they can still allow water to seep into the pool, which can lead to other problems down the road. Spider Cracks: Pool spider cracks are another common type of crack that can occur in both gunite and fiberglass pools. They get their name from their spider-like appearance, as they typically consist of a small group of radial cracks radiating out from a central point and are usually caused by improper curing of the concrete or plaster. These cracks are typically caused by ground movement or poor construction and can be challenging to repair. Leakage Cracks: These cracks allow water to leak out of the pool and can be a severe problem. Leakage cracks can be caused by age, wear and tear, or damage from an earthquake or other disaster. Structural cracks: These cracks run deep and can cause serious problems if they are not repaired properly. Structural cracks can be caused by settling, poor construction, or damage from an earthquake or other disaster. If you see any cracks in your pool, it's vital to have them inspected by a professional to pinpoint the cause and the best way to repair them. Cracks can be improved with patching materials, epoxy, or other methods, depending on the type and severity of the crack. Conclusion A swimming pool crack can be a surface or structural issue. If the crack is on the surface, it is most likely due to age and weathering. If the crack is structural, there is a problem with the underlying support structure. A professional should fix a structural crack as soon as possible to avoid further damage. If a pool is not correctly designed and engineered, it can develop cracks. These cracks can be caused by several factors, including poor construction, ground movement, and extreme weather conditions. While some cracks are purely cosmetic and pose no threat to the pool's structural integrity, others can indicate more severe problems that need to be addressed.

The Different Types of Swimming Pool Cracks and What They Mean

Swimming pools are a great addition to any home, but they can also be a source of stress if cracks begin to form. While not all cracks...

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As the summer season approaches, it's time to start thinking about pool maintenance. You can perform a couple of tasks to keep your pool clean and clear all summer long. Regular Maintenance Pool maintenance is vital for several reasons: It helps to keep the water clean and safe to swim in. Regular testing and shocking will kill bacteria and algae that can make the pool unsafe. It helps to prevent damage to the pool itself. Dirt, debris, and build-up can clog filters and other parts of the pool system, leading to costly repairs. Pool maintenance makes the pool more enjoyable to use! Who wants to swim in a dirty, murky pool? Prevent algae Prevent algae growth. Algae can overgrow in the summer heat, so it's essential to take steps to prevent it from forming in the first place. Test the water regularly and shock the pool once a week to kill bacteria and algae. Clean the filter regularly to prevent build-up and clogging. Remove algae. If you do find algae growing in your pool, there are a few things you can do to remove it. Use a scrub brush on the affected areas and vacuum up any debris. You may also need to add chlorine or other sanitizers to the water to kill the algae. Shock the Pool Properly shocking your pool is crucial to pool maintenance. This involves adding chlorine or other sanitizers to the water to kill bacteria and algae. Shock should be applied to the pool at least once a week, though more often may be necessary for sweltering weather or if the pool is used frequently. Always be sure you follow the instructions on the shock you are using. Too much shock can damage the pool and make swimming unsafe. Clean the Filter The filter is one of the most critical parts of your pool system. It helps to remove large particles of dirt and debris from the water, keeping it clean and clear. However, the filter can become clogged over time with build-up. This can reduce its efficiency and even damage the pool. Be sure to clean the filter regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Conclusion Splish and splash all summer safely! There is nothing worse than a pool party in a cloudy pool. Please keep it clean and remember to test the water regularly, shock the pool once a week, and clean the filter regularly to prevent build-up and clogging. With a little effort, your pool will be ready for all your summer fun!

How to Keep Your Pool Clean and Clear This Summer

As the summer season approaches, it's time to start thinking about pool maintenance. You can perform a couple of tasks to keep your pool...

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Introduction As the weather warms up, many homeowners begin to think about adding an above-ground pool to their backyard. While pools can provide hours of fun and relaxation, it's important to remember that they also come with some responsibility. Before taking the plunge, ensure you understand what a home inspector will look for during an inspection. The importance of having a pool inspection Homeowners who have an above-ground pool on their property should make sure to get it inspected regularly. A pool inspection can help to identify any potential safety hazards, as well as any areas that may need repairs. By having a regular inspection, homeowners can ensure that their pool is safe for use and that any necessary repairs are made. What a home inspector will be looking for during an inspection When inspecting an above-ground pool, a home inspector will look for several key things. These include the condition of the pool liner, pool pump and filter, and the decking and fencing around the pool. The inspector will check that the ladder going into the pool is in good shape and that all parts are functioning properly. Finally, the inspector will ensure that the pool is adequately covered and that all safety devices are in place. By paying close attention to these areas, a home inspector can help to ensure that an above-ground pool is safe and ready for use. Tips for maintaining your above-ground pool Maintaining your above-ground pool is essential to keep it clean, safe, and in good working condition. Here are some tips for doing so: -Regularly check the condition of the pool liner and replace it if necessary. -Inspect the pool pump and filter regularly and clean or replace them as needed. -Check the decking and fencing around the pool for any loose or missing parts. -Make sure the ladder is in good working order and all safety devices are in place. -Properly cover the pool when not in use. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your above-ground pool remains in good condition for years to come. Conclusion A home inspector will look for several things when inspecting an above-ground pool. These include the condition of the pool liner, the pool pump and filter, and the decking and fencing around the pool. Finally, the inspector will ensure that the pool is adequately covered and that all safety devices are in place.

Inspection Spotlight: Above-Ground Pools

Introduction As the weather warms up, many homeowners begin to think about adding an above-ground pool to their backyard. While pools can...

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We all know how much we rely on our HVAC systems in this hot, humid climate. But what if something goes wrong? The last thing you want to consider when it's 100 degrees outside, and your air conditioning isn't working well is repairing or replacing parts. With these repairs being so expensive without modernizing (and sometimes even adding), many homeowners find themselves unable financially. And when something goes wrong, it's not a pretty sight. Considering that's not something the everyday homeowner is well-versed in, you may feel helpless when something goes haywire. Some things go wrong with the HVAC system more often than you'd think. You can take solutions and preventative measures to avoid these costly situations. Some are more extensive than others. Here are some common HVAC problems we at Green Scene Home Inspections have found during our routine inspections. Dirty HVAC Filters A common issue we see and one of the most common problems is dirty HVAC filters. This is an easy fix—replace the filter! This may be required every few months, depending on your filter type. People who live in dusty regions of the country and people with pets may need to replace their air filters more frequently. Deteriorating Ducts Older homes typically have ductwork that needs to be replaced simply due to their age. The ductwork delivers the goods when it comes to HVAC. Suppose it's not installed correctly or develops cracks or broken connections. In that case, you can lose heated or cooled air into attics or inside walls, affecting the energy required to deliver the proper comfort to interior rooms. Ductwork leaks can also create moisture issues in your basement or crawlspace. If you think that your ductwork needs to be replaced, call a professional to take a look. It's not a DIY job, and you want it done right the first time! Thermostat Issues If you find that your home is never entirely comfortable, even when you have the thermostat set where you want it, there could be an issue with the thermostat itself. It may need to be calibrated, or it could be a sign that you need a new one altogether. Thermostats are inexpensive, so if you suspect yours isn't working correctly, it's a good idea to replace them. Gas Leaks Another common issue is gas line leaks. These usually signal more significant problems and should be addressed as soon as possible. Conclusion Hopefully, this gives you a broader understanding of some of the HVAC problems we find during home inspections! If you need a home inspection, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help!

HVAC Problems Found During Home Inspections

We all know how much we rely on our HVAC systems in this hot, humid climate. But what if something goes wrong? The last thing you want to...

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Roofing problems usually come as unexpected occurrences. Getting repairs and hiring a qualified professional to handle the job is of the utmost importance as it is not a cheap service. Your roof protects your home from the harsh elements and keeps your family safe and dry. Many roofers claim to be experts, and since many people are not roofers themselves, it is difficult to derive the truth from the untruth. The cost of installing a new roof can be high, so you want to ensure you're getting the value you pay for. With the help of Google, you can find a qualified roofer who will provide you with a beautiful, durable, long-lasting roof. Use these tips to find a qualified roofer in your area: Licensing Ensure the roofing contractor holds a license and insurance from the state where they work. Doing so will ensure that the roofer has the necessary experience and knowledge to safely and properly install your new roof. A license is required in most states to work as a roofing contractor, and roofers typically need to have two years of hands-on experience before taking the licensing exam. Once a roofer has passed the exam, they will be able to earn their license from their State Licensing Board or a similar government agency. Find References In addition to ensuring that your roofer has the proper licenses and qualifications, you should also ask for references from past clients. This will help you get to know the roofer's craft and whether or not they are likely to do an excellent job on your roof. A good roofer will be more than happy to provide you with a list of references, so if they seem hesitant or unwilling to do so, it may be best to look elsewhere. If you're ready to hire a roofer, it is essential that you take the time to find a qualified professional. Start with friends and immediate family members to see if they have any recommendations. A quick way to get a few references is to check reviews online. Once you have a few roofers in mind, you can compare prices and services to find the best one for your needs. Pricing After you have gathered a few names of qualified roofers in your area, you can begin comparing prices and services to find the best one for your needs. Some roofers may charge more than others, but it is essential to remember that you get what you pay for. A more expensive roofer may be worth the extra cost if they can provide you with a higher quality roof that will last longer and better protect your home. Conclusion Remember, installing a new roof is a significant investment. With some time and effort, you can discover a qualified roofer who will provide you with a beautiful, durable, long-lasting roof that keeps your family safe and dry for years to come. When you are ready to hire a qualified roofer, keep these tips in mind to ensure that you find a qualified professional who can provide you with the best possible service. Check for licensing- always make sure your roofer has been certified by the state in which they work. Look for references- ask your potential roofers for a list of references from past clients. Compare pricing- get quotes from a few different roofers to compare services and prices.

How to Find a Qualified Roofer

Roofing problems usually come as unexpected occurrences. Getting repairs and hiring a qualified professional to handle the job is of the...

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Introduction A home inspector will typically check the HVAC system during a routine home inspection. They will look for any signs of damage or wear and tear and check the filters and vents to ensure they are clean and unobstructed. The inspector will also test the thermostat to ensure it is working correctly. Home inspections are a fantastic way for buyers to ensure they're investing in something worth their money. During a Green Scene Home Inspection, an expert looks at every inch of your potential new home and provides a comprehensive analysis of its condition, following standards across America's professionals! This includes reviewing everything from HVAC systems to plumbing fixtures. Hence, you know what needs fixing before making a critical decision. Common HVAC Issues Home inspectors find some common problems with HVAC systems, including damaged or dirty filters, vents, and thermostats that are not working correctly. These problems can cause the HVAC system to work less efficiently, leading to higher energy bills. In some cases, these problems can also cause health issues for the people living in the house. Having a functioning HVAC system in your home is vital for both comfort and safety reasons. If you are having problems with your HVAC system, it is best to contact a professional for help. There are some things that you can practice regularly to avoid having problems with your HVAC system: Make sure to change the filters regularly. Doing so will help keep the air in your home clean and reduce the strain on the system. Keep the vents in your home clean and free of obstructions. Have your thermostat regularly serviced to ensure it is working correctly. Following these simple tips can help keep your HVAC system running smoothly for years to come. Conclusion In conclusion, a home inspector will check the HVAC system to ensure it functions correctly. They will look for any signs of damage or wear and tear and check the filters and vents to ensure they are clean and unobstructed. The inspector will also test the thermostat to ensure it is working correctly. These inspections are essential for buyers to have so that they know what needs to be fixed before moving forward with their decision to purchase a home. If you are having problems with your HVAC system, it is best to contact a professional for help. Give us a call today at (214) 796-7707!

Does a Home Inspector Check the HVAC system?

Introduction A home inspector will typically check the HVAC system during a routine home inspection. They will look for any signs of...

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Come mingle with the top DFW area agents in an immersive Star Wars-themed setting while enjoying incredible cocktails and Hors d’oeuvres catered by an on-site local chef. There's also a live DJ that will have everyone up on their feet – don't forget about luxury photo booth opportunities either 😉 And if all these perks weren’t enough already...we've got a $500 cash prize for the best Star Wars-themed costume! You don't want to miss this incredible event on (TODAY) May 4th starting at 4:30 pm! We'll have tons of activities for the kids like face painting and a bouncy house, so bring your whole family. All are welcome--don’t hesitate to RSVP with the link below or email claboy@greenscenehomeinspections.com. RSVP HERE We can’t wait to see you there! 💚

May The Fourth Be With You - Realtor Networking Event

Come mingle with the top DFW area agents in an immersive Star Wars-themed setting while enjoying incredible cocktails and Hors d’oeuvres...

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download form here PURPOSE OF INSPECTION A real estate inspection is a visual survey of a structure and a basic performance evaluation of the systems and components of a building. It provides information regarding the general condition of a residence at the time the inspection was conducted. It is important that you carefully read ALL of this information. Ask the inspector to clarify any items or comments that are unclear. RESPONSIBILITY OF THE INSPECTOR This inspection is governed by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Standards of Practice (SOPs), which dictates the minimum requirements for a real estate inspection. The inspector IS required to: Use this Property Inspection Report form for the inspection Inspect only those components and conditions that are present, visible, and accessible at the time of the Inspection Indicate whether each item was inspected, not inspected, or not present Indicate an item as Deficient (D) if a condition exists that adversely and materially affects the performance of a system or component OR constitutes a hazard to life, limb or property as specified by the SOPs Explain the inspector’s findings in the corresponding section in the body of the report form The inspector IS NOT required to: Identify all potential hazards Turn on decommissioned equipment, systems, utilities, or apply an open flame or light a pilot to operate any appliance Climb over obstacles, move furnishings or stored items Prioritize or emphasize the importance of one deficiency over another Provide follow-up services to verify that proper repairs have been made; or  inspect system or component listed under the optional section of the SOPs (22 TAC 535.233) RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CLIENT While items identified as Deficient (D) in an inspection report DO NOT obligate any party to make repairs or take other actions, in the event that any further evaluations are needed, it is the responsibility of the client to obtain further evaluations and/or cost estimates from qualified service professionals regarding any items reported as Deficient (D). It is recommended that any further evaluations and/or cost estimates take place prior to the expiration of any contractual time limitations, such as option periods. Please Note: Evaluations performed by service professionals in response to items reported as Deficient (D) on the report may lead to the discovery of additional deficiencies that were not present, visible, or accessible at the time of the inspection. Any repairs made after the date of the inspection may render information contained in this report obsolete or invalid. REPORT LIMITATIONS This report is provided for the benefit of the named client and is based on observations made by the named inspector on the date the inspection was performed (indicated above). ONLY those items specifically noted as being inspected on the report were inspected. This inspection IS NOT: A technically exhaustive inspection of the structure, its systems, or its components may not reveal all deficiencies An inspection to verify compliance with any building codes An inspection to verify compliance with manufacturer’s installation instructions for any system or component and DOES NOT imply insurability or warrantability of the structure or its components. NOTICE CONCERNING HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS, DEFICIENCIES, AND CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENTS Conditions may be present in your home that did not violate building codes or common practices in effect when the home was constructed but are considered hazardous by today’s standards. Such conditions that were part of the home prior to the adoption of any current codes prohibiting them may not be required to be updated to meet current code requirements. However, if it can be reasonably determined that they are present at the time of the inspection, the potential for injury or property loss from these conditions is significant enough to require inspectors to report them as Deficient (D). Examples of such hazardous conditions include: malfunctioning, improperly installed, or missing ground fault circuit protection (GFCI) devices and arc-fault (AFCI) devices Ordinary glass in locations where modern construction techniques call for safety glass Malfunctioning or lack of fire safety features such as smoke alarms, fire-rated doors in certain locations, and functional emergency escape and rescue openings in bedrooms Malfunctioning carbon monoxide alarms Excessive spacing between balusters on stairways and porches Improperly installed appliances Improperly installed or defective safety devices Lack of electrical bonding and grounding Lack of bonding on gas piping, including corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) Please Note: Items identified as Deficient (D) in an inspection report DO NOT obligate any party to make repairs or take other actions. The decision to correct a hazard or any deficiency identified in an inspection report is left up to the parties to the contract for the sale or purchase of the home. REI 7-6 (8/9/21) • Promulgated by the Texas Real Estate Commission •  (512) 936-3000 • www.trec.texas.gov Download the report form here 2020 NEC Changes Article 210.8 GFCI Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters or GFCI's The distance shall be the shortest path the cord of an appliance connected to a receptacle would follow without piercing a floor, wall, ceiling, or fixed barrier or passing through a window. They Removed Door and Doorway Article210.8 (A) (5) GFCI Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupters or GFCI's Basements- Any outlet in a basement must be GFCI protected. Article 210.8 (F) Outdoor Outlets All outdoor outlets for dwelling unit supplied by single-phase, branch circuit rated 150V or less, or 50A or less shall be GFCI protected. Examples: AC condenser Heat Pumps Septic Aerators Well Pumps Article 210.8 (A) Outlets All 120V through 250V receptacle outlets specified in A(1) through A(11) shall be GFCI protected within 6ft of the inside edge of a sink basin. Article 210.52 (C) Island or Peninsula Outlets At least one receptacle required in the first nine square feet of an island or peninsula and a receptacle for every 18 square feet or fraction thereafter. There must be at least one receptacle within the first two foot of the end of a counter. Article230.85 Emergency Disconnects Requires one and two-family dwelling units to have an emergency disconnect installed in an outdoor readily accessible location and to be labeled as an emergency disconnect. Article 230.67 Surge Protection Requires installation of surge protection devices In all dwelling unit services. This requirement came about from the need to not only protect electronic equipment in your home but also to protect important life safety devices such as smoke alarms GFCIs and AFCI's from the damaging effects of surge. It is also important to select the type 1 or type 2 surge device that provides the level of protection that you desire for your installation factors that should be considered include: Short-circuit current rating (SCCR) Nominal discharge current rating (In) Voltage protection rating. VPR) That is the last of the updates, we hope you all enjoyed the video breakdown as much as we enjoyed making it! We would love to hear from you via social media @greenscenehome or reach out to us via #AskAHomeInspector. P.S. Keep an eye out for our Knowledge is Power: Realtor Education

TREC 2022 Update and 2020 NEC Changes (video)

download form here PURPOSE OF INSPECTION A real estate inspection is a visual survey of a structure and a basic performance evaluation of...

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As the weather is getting cooler, we asked the Inspectors to send in some good advice for homeowners preparing for winter. Here are three seriously smart things to look out for at your home this season: 1. Furnace Flame Sensor From Inspector Alex: "That’s the flame sensor for my furnace at home. Yesterday my wife was complaining that the heat wasn’t working, so I went up in the attic and could hear the burners kick on and then go out immediately. This sensor is in place so if there is no flame, it shuts off the gas. As the metal tarnishes over time, it starts to think there is no flame. You’ll see it pointing into the flame and is easily serviced. It's an inexpensive part that can be replaced, or just polish it with steel wool and that saves you the wait and charge for an HVAC technician. 2. Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing From Inspector Luis: CSST gas lines are installed in millions of homes, and you may have heard of them from news stories about lightning strikes causing explosions. These lines are required to be grounded. You can ground it by connecting a #8 AWG copper wire from the manifold to the panel box ground, or call a licensed electrician. Read more about grounding CSST here. 3. Return Air Vent In The Garage From Inspector Brian: While air conditioning your garage may seem like a fun idea, there is a right and wrong way to do it. According to building code, you should never place return air vents in the garage, (or closet, bathroom, toilet room, kitchen, garage, mechanical room, boiler room, furnace room or unconditioned attic). In addition to carbon monoxide, garage air contaminants like gasoline fumes, paint, and other chemicals can be a health and safety risk inside your home. If you're concerned about unsafe or improperly installed systems in your house, you can #AskAHomeInspector with a Seasonal Home Maintenance Check Up.

Seasonal Tips From A Home Inspector

As the weather is getting cooler, we asked the Inspectors to send in some good advice for homeowners preparing for winter. Here are three...

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Water and moisture is the cause of some of the most catastrophic and expensive damage to your home. Water damage can happen slowly, like a slow leak that causes buckling to a wood floor over time; or super fast, like a burst water heater. To really care for your home, you have to think a lot about water: where does the rain go, on the roof and at the foundation? Where does condensation from the HVAC go? Your house has systems to pull water safely away from places you don't want it, but sometimes these systems can fail, so it's important to understand how to follow the water. On this dry, sunny day, it appears that nothing is wrong here. But the angle of the ground will cause rainwater to flow toward the foundation - something to avoid in any case. But here, it's been flooding the crawlspace and soaking the wood veneer of the house. You can see some discoloration where the wood has moisture damage. Here is a great example of why you need kickout flashing. Kickout flashing, or diverter flashing, is a special type of flashing that diverts rainwater away from the cladding and into the gutter, keeping water away from the roof components and preventing possible leaks to the interior. In this photo, you can see the water damage to the original wood, and where it's been propped up until it can be replaced. Here you can see the condensate line is leaking, and they've placed a bucket to catch the water. This is such a dangerous set up. Hopefully they remember to dump the bucket before it fills up, crushes the duct it's sitting on and spills gallons of water into the attic. Plumbing is not for amateurs, and here's why. Doesn't this seem like more effort than just fixing the pipe? Imagine having this set up in a home you're trying to sell.

Follow The Water

Water and moisture is the cause of some of the most catastrophic and expensive damage to your home. Water damage can happen slowly, like...

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Anyone who spends their time visiting other people's homes can relate to this home inspection pet peeve: unsecured animals. (Pet peeve, see what we did there? ) We encounter all sorts of creatures, great and small, and most of the time, it's no big deal. But in all seriousness, there have been incidents of home inspectors and Realtors being attacked by pets who hadn't been secured by the homeowner. So, first, a PSA: If you are having real estate or repair professionals in your home, especially when you are not there, make sure you either remove or lock up your pets, for everyone's safety. Now, on to some funny animal encounters: 1. Co-Inspector Kitty This Inspector had an unexpected ride-along coworker at this property. He said the cat went along with him throughout the house. Here he is checking the meter. 2. Peacock Property Definitely not something you see every day in DFW. 3. Cock-a-Doodle Who? "Tell your friends." 4. Horse Humor This horse does NOT appreciate our Inspector's tone. Need a DFW Home Inspection? You can book online or get a free quote here.

Home Inspection Pet Peeves

Anyone who spends their time visiting other people's homes can relate to this home inspection pet peeve: unsecured animals. (Pet peeve,...

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Texas winters are hard to predict, but our furnaces got a pretty major workout last year. In case HVAC isn't your area of expertise, the furnace is the part of your system that generates heat to send warm air through your ventilation system. It's one of the more expensive pieces of equipment in your home, so it's important to take care of it. A well maintained furnace will work more efficiently, last longer, and cost less to run. You should have your furnace serviced by a professional at least once a year. But of course, not everyone does. This is an older aged unit nearing the end of its life. In the close up, you can see a build up of dust and rust that is... epic. This furnace hasn't been maintained for some time. It's a concern, not only because it's probably shortened the life of the unit, but a furnace in this poor condition could be a fire hazard. It could be blowing combustible air back into the attic, or causing the unit itself to heat up due to overwork, even causing the unit to shake and dislodge electrical or gas lines. The inspector took this photo because it was the oldest working furnace he'd ever seen. The age and efficiency of your furnace are good to know, so that you can plan for future expenses. A new furnace will cost $5,000-$10,000 depending on the situation, so you want to know if it's going to be an immediate expense or a 5 or 10 year issue. In this video, our Inspector caught a dangerous oversight with a newly installed furnace. If you're wondering if your home is ready for winter, you can #AskAHomeInspector! Schedule a Seasonal Home Maintenance Checkup with ZUpkeep here.

Preparing Your House For Winter: Furnaces

Texas winters are hard to predict, but our furnaces got a pretty major workout last year. In case HVAC isn't your area of expertise, the...

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With Halloween coming up this week, we thought we'd share some scary stuff that can be found in houses (cue the eerie music). From a home inspector's perspective, "scary" can mean a lot of things - dangerous conditions, creepy critters, and some seriously strange stuff in the crawl space. Here are some haunting #HomeInspectionFinds: Crawl Space Graveyard If we're being honest, the crawl space is always kind of creepy. But this is one for the books. When going through the video of the inspection of this 1913 house, the client, who was a nurse, said, "Wait, is that a femur?" Someone's Watching Speaking of crawl spaces, Ever have that feeling like you're being watched? This creepy kitty caused the inspector to "jump out of his skin," which is no small task when you're under a house. Lurking In The Closet This homeowner has a chilling sense of humor. This lifelike dummy makes a terrifying surprise when you open the door to the water heater closet. Not a Good Sign Climbing up a steeply pitched roof is a little scary under normal conditions, but this just feels like a bad omen. Have a safe and Happy Halloween from all of us at Green Scene Home Inspections!

Haunting Home Inspection Finds

With Halloween coming up this week, we thought we'd share some scary stuff that can be found in houses (cue the eerie music). From a home...

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You know who you are. You've walked past that leaky faucet a hundred times thinking you'll fix it later. You haven't changed your air filters in....ever? We get it. When you've got a lot going on, it's easy to become "house blind" to little repair and maintenance issues around the house. The problem is, those little issues can become major problems if they go unchecked. Dryer Vent When the laundry has that distinctive blend of fresh lavender and burning lint, it may be time to clean your dryer vent. Yes, you not only have to clean the vent inside the dryer, but the one outside your house as well. This is a fire hazard and will diminish the life of the dryer. Water Leaks Y'all are walking past that dripping hose bib like you didn't see it, and meanwhile there's mold growing under your house and your floorboards are starting to buckle. Slow Draining Sink That bathroom sink that drains slowly isn't a big deal...until it is. Take care of it before you flood the bathroom, the attic. and have to replace your AC pan. If Drano doesn't do the trick, call a plumber. Seriously, it is so easy to walk through your house, not seeing all sorts of repair and maintenance issues. Did you know home inspections aren't just for when you're buying or selling your home? You can have a home maintenance inspection anytime. Test the different systems of your house to see how they're performing, and get yourself a to-do list of maintenance tasks to protect your investment.

Some of Y'all Aren't Taking Good Care of Your Homes...And It Shows

You know who you are. You've walked past that leaky faucet a hundred times thinking you'll fix it later. You haven't changed your air...

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If you're in the real estate biz, you may be aware that the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), which is the governing body over real estate licenses and standards, just made some changes to the approved Home Inspection Report for Texas Home Inspections. These changes became effective September 1, 2021, and this week we thought we'd go over what they are and what they mean. 1. WATER: Inspection reports are now required to call out the type of piping used in water distribution. Ex. PEX, Copper, Galvanized, PB (aka Quest). 2. ELECTRIC All outlet receptacles must be either a GFCI or AFCI. GFCI is the type of outlet that has an emergency breaker at the outlet, while AFCI detects faulty wiring at the breaker box. They must also be "tamper resistant," which is indicated on the packaging, or with a "TR" on the outlet itself. 3. WINDOWS All windows two stories or higher with a windowsill that is 24 inches or less from the interior floor must have a device that prevents them from opening more than 4 inches. This is to prevent falls from easily accessible 2nd & third story windows. 4. GAS Gas information in regards to appliances will no longer be with the individual appliance, but will be located in its own section specifically for gas. This is really only important to folks who are familiar with the old report, and will now find this info in a different place. In addition, the absence of carbon monoxide detectors will now be called out on all home inspection reports. 5. GARAGE DOORS All garage access doors that are not equipped with a self-closing device that are attached to the home must have two spring loaded hinges as a fire safety measure. This would prevent fire from spreading easily to the main home in the event of a garage fire. If you have questions about any of these changes, feel free to give us a call, or send your questions to info@greenscenehomeinspections.com. For Realtors, we can come to your office to do a brief overview. Contact Paige at PaigeF@greenscenehomeinspections.com.

TREC Home Inspection Report Changes

If you're in the real estate biz, you may be aware that the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), which is the governing body over real...

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Happy Fall! Before you break out the pumpkin spice and Halloween decorations, take some time to check your house for wear and tear after a long Texas summer. Later this season, you'll need to do some Fall stuff like clearing leaves from the gutters and getting your chimney cleaned, but as much as we wish we could bust out those sweaters and jackets and put a fire in the fireplace, it's still in the 90's here in North Texas. So here are some post-summer home maintenance tips from your home inspector. Check Your Sprinkler System Your sprinkler system has had a workout in 2021 so far, from an extreme freeze to a long, hot summer. Watering season isn't quite over yet, so it's a good time to do a visual inspection of each head both when they're off and when they're running. Check for lawn mower damage, malfunctioning heads, heads pointed the wrong direction, and evidence of underground leaks. Have Your AC Serviced Speaking of things in your house that get a workout, your AC probably needs some TLC. If you haven't had it serviced this year, now is a great time. If you can't remember the last time you had your AC serviced, you are probably breathing this: Have Your Pool Serviced Pool owners know that a pool is the maintenance gift that keeps on giving year round, but since summer is high season, it may be time for a professional check up. If you do your own pool servicing, make sure you checking the pressure gauge periodically as high or low pressure lets you know there's a problem, like a clog or, as Fall kicks in, you may have a skimmer full of leaves. If you'd like a professional to take a look at your home and give you advice about home maintenance and answer all your questions without selling you anything, why not #askahomeinspector? We have a new service called Zupkeep, that does just that. Find out more here.

Happy Fall! Time to Recover From Summer

Happy Fall! Before you break out the pumpkin spice and Halloween decorations, take some time to check your house for wear and tear after...

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If you’re in the real estate biz, you may be aware that the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), which is the governing body over real estate licenses and standards, just made some changes to the approved Home Inspection Report for Texas Home Inspections. These changes became effective Sept. 1, 2021, and this week we thought we’d go over what they are and what they mean. Water Inspection reports are now required to call out the type of piping used in water distribution. Examples seen above are PEX, Copper, Galvanized, and PB (aka Quest). Electric All outlet receptacles must be either a GFCI or AFCI. GFCI is the type of outlet that has an emergency breaker at the outlet, while AFCI detects faulty wiring at the breaker box. They must also be “tamper-resistant,” which is indicated on the packaging, or with a “TR” on the outlet itself. In addition, the absence of carbon monoxide detectors will now be called out on all home inspection reports Windows All windows two stories or higher with a windowsill that is 24 inches or less from the interior floor must have a device that prevents them from opening more than 4 inches. This is to prevent falls from easily accessible 2nd & third-story windows. Gas Gas information in regards to appliances will no longer be with the individual appliance but will be located in its own section specifically for gas. This is really only important to folks who are familiar with the old report and will now find this info in a different place. Garage Doors All garage access doors that are not equipped with a self-closing device that are attached to the home must have two spring loaded hinges as a fire safety measure. This would prevent fire from spreading easily to the main home in the event of a garage fire. If you have questions about these updates, please give us a call, or message info@greenscenehomeinspections.com!

Heads Up: TREC’s New Rules For Home Inspection Reports Just Went Live

If you’re in the real estate biz, you may be aware that the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC), which is the governing body over real...

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A close friend who is buying a house asked the other day whether she should bother with a home inspection. Her offer had just been accepted over eight competing offers on a house in Allen, TX, and she was just entering the option period. “There’s nothing a home inspection is going to tell me that will keep me from buying this house,” she said. Nothing? Really? So if you buy the house, and, SURPRISE! You need a new A/C, there’s a sewer leak, and you need to do costly foundation repairs all in the first year, that would be no big deal? Maybe. But wouldn’t you rather know ahead of time that these are expenses you’ll need to plan for? That’s an extreme example, of course. Even if there aren’t any big problems, a home inspection is like a primer on your new house, covering all the details about each of its systems, what’s working and not working. Doesn’t spending about .1-.2 percent of the value of that investment seem worth it? (The median price of a home in Dallas is about $300,000, and an average home inspection is between $350 and $550). Just saying. So, here are a few examples of things you might want to know before you buy a house: 1. You’d be surprised how many homeowners simply don’t notice that their trees have grown perilously close to the house. The best, safest option is to have regular service from an arborist who can prevent damage like this. This kind of damage occurring over time, (as opposed to damage from a storm, for example) may or may not be covered by homeowners insurance, so this is good knowledge for a new homeowner to have because this roof will need to be replaced. 2. If you’re buying an older home with original cast iron pipes, there’s a good chance you’ll have a plumbing repair in your near future. 3. This video shows a problem that goes back to the design of the house (in this case, the 1990s), and has been costing the homeowner money and comfort that whole time. A home inspection isn’t necessarily about whether to buy the house or not or about finding things to help negotiate the price down. It’s a way to learn as much as you can to plan for and protect your home investment. Why would you want to skip out on that?

Why Do I Need A Home Inspection in a Seller's Market?

A close friend who is buying a house asked the other day whether she should bother with a home inspection. Her offer had just been...

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It takes a trained eye to pick up on all the things a home inspector is looking for, and some problems in a home stand out more than others. Can you tell what's wrong in these pictures? Sprinklers are running, water is collecting on the patio... If you guessed that there's an underground leak in the sprinkler line, you're right! The water is leaking through the seam in the slab, indicating a break in the line. The owner will have to dig up the concrete to repair the line. Temperature is 201 degrees coming out of the register... Yeah, that's way too hot. Your home inspector will run the heat and air conditioning in the house and check the temperature coming out to the vents to see how well the HVAC is heating and cooling. A normal range for the heating system would be about 90-130 degrees. This reading shows there's a big problem in the system - possibly the air is cut off and heat is running all to one vent. Can you tell why this is bad? These are crawl space vents, and the dirt is restricting air flow in the crawl space. You need that air flow to prevent moisture and heat from building up under there, which would be conducive for insects, mold, and wood rot. Aww. Do you know what happened here? Poor bird. You may have experienced that strange phenomenon where birds fly directly into your window, sometimes over and over. Sometimes birds see their own reflection and attack it, thinking it's another bird. Or they see the reflection of vegetation or the landscape and it confuses them. There are a number of ways you can prevent this if it happens at your home, from tape or decals on the windows, to screens or adhesive shields that also reduce your cooling costs in the summer.

What's Wrong With This Picture? #HomeInspectionFinds

It takes a trained eye to pick up on all the things a home inspector is looking for, and some problems in a home stand out more than...

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It's summer in Texas, and the heat is hard on everyone, especially folks who work in un-air conditioned spaces. We find that laughter is the best medicine during stressful times, and helps us all have a little more patience. So here's some more #homeinspectionhumor from your friends at Green Scene! Did you know a group of armadillos is called a "Roll?" This roll of armadillos came out to say hello while our Inspector walked the yard. We don't care who you are, armadillos are funny. Why do all the outlets in this house look so angry? The "Tiger King" has a new line of shingles. 🐯😄 Happiness is... multitasking. (The shower head is positioned directly over the toilet) When you've got time to kill waiting for your client to arrive...

When The Temperatures Heat Up, Laughter Is The Best Medicine

It's summer in Texas, and the heat is hard on everyone, especially folks who work in un-air conditioned spaces. We find that laughter is...

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From our friends at Lawnstarter. They're not kidding when they say, "Everything's bigger in Texas." That's especially true when it comes to summer heat and humidity! That can make it challenging to maintain a healthy landscape in summer. Come summer, lush landscapes can turn lackluster due to soaring temperatures and low rainfall. You can't control the weather, but you can make sure your landscape survives and even thrives during the hottest months of the year. Choose a Texas-tough grass. If starting from scratch (or seed,) choose a warm-season grass type that can handle the Texas sun and heat. Bermudagrass, buffalograss, Zoysiagrass, centipedegrass, and tall fescue. Depending on the variety you choose, you’ll need to mow weekly or bi-weekly. Taller grass helps protect the roots from the heat and summer sun. Water is life. Grass, plants, shrubs, and trees all need water. If only nature alone got the job done. Irrigation systems are a must in Texas. Make sure you test your sprinkler system in the spring to make sure it’s working properly. Check for any missing or leaking heads, and test run each zone for a couple of minutes to be sure water is going where it’s intended and is not landing on the driveway or sidewalk. Go Native. Native flowers and trees such as black-eyed Susans and bluebonnets are adapted to the Texas heat and soil conditions. Native plants are more resistant to disease, pests, and they won’t harm our ecosystem. They were born to live here, so they practically grow themselves and need little water, fertilizer, or maintenance. And there are many varieties from which to choose. Take your landscaping to new heights with native trees like honey mesquite, Mexican plum, Texas redbud, and cedar elm. Not only do trees provide welcome shade for your yard, they also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Keep in mind; you’ll need to maintain these trees by pruning dead branches and watering them in the summer. The best time to trim most trees is typically during winter, when the tree is dormant. Ground Cover. Don’t forget the eye candy! Set your landscape apart from the rest with a ground cover. Purple phlox, Texas gold columbine, and English ivy add texture and curb appeal. Ground covers can often be used in place of grass, which means less water, fertilizer, and mowing. Mulch. Let’s face it: Accessories make the outfit. Think of mulch as dazzling earrings. Mulch instantly adds rich color and helps define your landscape. It also helps reduce water loss from the soil surface by acting as an insulator, helping to regulate soil temperature to keep plant roots cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Applying mulch around plants also helps suppress weeds, saving you time on your hands and knees. You can buy it by the truckload or by the bag in a variety of colors. Not only will it help you maintain a healthy landscape in summer, but fresh mulch will add a pleasant aroma to your yard. Tyler Campbell started mowing lawns in Aurora as a teenager to put himself through college. After getting his degree in landscape architecture, he now designs landscapes for commercial clients, but his favorite part is getting down to grass tacks, and mowing the grass.

How to Maintain a Healthy Landscape in Summer

From our friends at Lawnstarter. They're not kidding when they say, "Everything's bigger in Texas." That's especially true when it comes...

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If your water heater isn't a big deal to you it's because you've never had to function without it. We hope that never happens to you, because things like hot showers, washing dishes, and laundry are important. Not to mention, when a water heater stops working, it often comes with a nice flood when the tank empties out. So here are some #homeinspectionfinds that will help you know what to look for, and whether your water heater is working correctly or needs attention. The disappearing flue pipe. We see this one a lot - The flue pipe is supposed to be connected to the unit. This one is allowing carbon monoxide to collect in the closet instead of being safely directed outside. Maybe it was never set up correctly, or maybe the part was left off by accident during a repair. Where does the water go? Another common issue we find with water heaters is an improperly set up drain pan. The drain pan is there in case of a leak. We can assume in this photo that there's been a slow leak, because someone has put a towel there to catch the water. That open pipe coming from the drain pan should be connected to piping that would take the water to the outside. In this set up, once the towel is saturated, all the water will just leak out onto the floor. Heat Source Too Close To Combustibles. The larger pipe next to the chimney is the water heater vent pipe. This is just poor workmanship. The water heater vent pipe can get extremely hot, and this is coming out right up against the wooden siding on the chimney. In this video, Inspector John talks about some of the things an inspector looks at when inspecting a water heater:

Water Heater Woes

If your water heater isn't a big deal to you it's because you've never had to function without it. We hope that never happens to you,...

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Spring is the busy season in real estate (not that there's been a slow season in Texas lately), and we find that laughter is truly the best medicine during stressful times. So here's some more #homeinspectionhumor from your friends at Green Scene! When you're super busy, sometimes you have to multi-task. You've heard of a shower beer - here's shower tequila! We especially like that it's the FIRST container. This was not an afterthought. Speaking of priorities, these folks re-tooled the opening meant for the dishwasher to make room for their wine fridge. Wheeeeeeeeee! Here we have an all star cast of panel screws...the dream team of screws. There are a few types of screws that are acceptable for use in a panel box: the pointy ones are bad. And finally, another excellent example of why you should never, ever DIY electrical. And a colorful expression to add to your vocabulary.

Home Inspection LOLs

Spring is the busy season in real estate (not that there's been a slow season in Texas lately), and we find that laughter is truly the...

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With housing inventory at an all time low, the Dallas estate market is poised for a tense spring. Buyers are having to compete with multiple offers,and make major decisions quickly - but this doesn't mean you should throw caution to the wind and buy without a home inspection. In a competitive market, you may not be able to negotiate every little thing you want, but you still want to go into such a major purchase with an understanding of your future expenses, especially on the 5 major areas of the house: foundation, plumbing, electrical, hvac, and roof. In our experience, home buyers in North Texas have the most questions about foundations. So here are a few facts about foundations. 1. In North Texas, foundation problems are common because of the effects of both extremely dry weather and extremely wet weather on our soil. 2. You can find signs of foundation movement both inside and outside the house. On the inside, look for cracks in the drywall, sloping floors, doors out of alignment, and cracked tile. On the outside, look for cracks in the bricks, expansion joint separation, window & door separation, frieze board separation, and brick/slab separation. Basically. foundation movement causes stress on the structure and things pull apart. 3. Apart from visual signs of foundation movement, there are other signs that you might want to dig a little deeper. If your inspector finds evidence of previous foundation repairs, you should ask for the paperwork and have the foundation evaluated by a structural engineer unless it's newly completed. Prior repair doesn't mean it won't have to be repaired again. In older homes, we often see multiple generations of foundation repair. If a home has been recently "flipped," look for signs that foundation problems have been covered up, like new paint patches or mortar filling. Sometimes flippers focus only on aesthetic upgrades without doing underlying repairs. 4. Proper drainage around the foundation is key to avoiding problems. It's important to direct water away from the foundation, so if you have a slope like in this photo, you would need to look into a surface drain or french drain system. Our Inspectors will tell you that they see more downspouts that are installed improperly than ones that are. Your gutter drain pipe should extend at least three feet from the house to get the water away from the foundation. Even in a competitive market, it's important not to lose sight of the big picture. Your home investment doesn't stop with the purchase: there are maintenance and future expenses to consider, and going in with as much info as possible will keep you from being blindsided by big ticket items later on.

Facts About Foundations

With housing inventory at an all time low, the Dallas estate market is poised for a tense spring. Buyers are having to compete with...

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With Spring comes all kinds of new life from grass, trees, and flowers (POLLEN), to all sorts of animal life like bunnies, chicks, birds, and BUGS. So we take the good with the not so good, and this week's Upon Closer Inspection is about how all that new spring life can affect your home. Cut Back Your Trees As all those pretty green leaves fill in your trees, make sure the branches are trimmed back from the roof, windows, and house structure, as well as any power lines. Falling tree branches are one of the major culprits in storm damage, and you can minimize this by having an arborist give your trees a nice trim. Cut Back Foliage That climbing ivy is pretty, but it's a conducive condition for wood destroying insects, like a nice little path from the ground to your house. Swarming Carpenter Ants Termites aren't the only type of wood destroying insect we find in North Texas. Carpenter Ants are very common. These little guys aren't nearly as destructive as termites, but they can be annoying, hard to get rid of, and they bite. Look For Signs of Rodents Coming into spring means the end of the season where rodents are trying to live in your house, although lots of folks see mice and rats all year. In this video, we see a garage that hasn't been maintained well, and the residents may not have been aware they had a major infestation. As part of your spring home maintenance, inspect your attic and garage for evidence of rodent infestation. If you find any, call pest control to find and seal the entry points, and make any necessary repairs.

Spring Home Maintenance

With Spring comes all kinds of new life from grass, trees, and flowers (POLLEN), to all sorts of animal life like bunnies, chicks, birds,...

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One of the things home inspectors run into a lot is homeowners who have attempted DIY repairs and renovations with limited success... or in some cases epic fails. This week's Upon Further Inspection is devoted to DIY Fails. While it doesn't take an expert to change an air filter, if we had a nickel for every time we see the wrong size air filter, we could buy a lifetime supply of correctly sized air filters. Seriously folks, if you buy the wrong size filter for your HVAC, take it back to the store. It's not "better than nothing." Stuffing a pillow case in the hole is not an approved method for sealing outdoor wall penetrations. Even if it's 1,000 thread count. You would want to use caulk or spray foam to seal that gap. They could have at least matched the pillowcase to the brick color. 🤦‍♀️ This is the place where the attic ladder attaches to the opening in the attic floor. Every attic ladder has this sign, and like 90% of you people put a sheet rock screw where it QUITE CLEARLY SAYS TO PUT A NAIL. In this video, you'll see the same theme- using the wrong material for the job, but this is even more important. As Inspector John likes to say, "Pointy metal things and electricity are a bad pairing." Use blunt edge screws around electricity. Also, whether you're a house flipper or a homeowner, don't DIY electrical work.

Home DIY Fails

One of the things home inspectors run into a lot is homeowners who have attempted DIY repairs and renovations with limited success... or...

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If you're buying a home in Texas this year, you do need a fair amount of luck to find the right house in the right neighborhood with all the features you're looking for. The real estate market is extremely competitive right now, and housing inventory is low. Demand is high for housing, and, depending on what you're looking for, you may have to compete against other buyers and/or move more quickly on making an offer than you might have expected. As with any stressful situation, we like to meet it with a little humor. So in honor of St. Patrick's Day, here are some things that made us say, "Good luck with that." If, for example, you find "El Diablo" in the crawl space, you might need a little extra luck with that house. If your roof is covered with bullets holes, and some actual bullets... well, maybe stay inside on holidays? And good luck with that. But seriously, like hail damage, enough of these would warrant a new roof. If your electrical panel is this old, first, we wish you good luck, second, call an electrician, and do not try to change a fuse yourself. This is a pre-circuit breaker style fuse panel. They are often ungrounded, which means it's easy to electrocute yourself, and we find that sometimes they've been "modified" to suit more modern needs which can be pretty dangerous. A design flaw this careless would warrant an extra careful inspection of the rest of the house, because WOW. Nice try on the plastic cover, but how about we just not put electrical outlets directly under a water source? In the current fast moving, competitive market, buyers have fewer options and may have to compete with multiple offers to get the home they want. Under these circumstances, a home inspection is less useful as a negotiation tool - because someone else is going to take the house "as is" - and more useful for planning: knowing that you will have to replace a water heater, HVAC, or foundation will factor in to your decision to go forward or not. In any case, we wish you good luck in your home search! May the home of your dreams be the pot of gold at the end of a double rainbow!

Good Luck With That

If you're buying a home in Texas this year, you do need a fair amount of luck to find the right house in the right neighborhood with all...

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We are moving into Spring, and soon it will be time to turn on the sprinklers. If you have a sprinkler system at home, now is the time to test your system to make sure it's functioning properly. This is particularly important this year after the extreme temperatures we had in February. To test your system, first walk around your yard to look for broken heads. This is extremely common, and you can easily replace them yourself. Look inside the control valve covers in the yard to see if there is water accumulating in them. Run each zone for at least 2 minutes. Make sure each sprinkler head is spraying on only grass or vegetation. Spraying the house or fence not only wastes water it damages the exterior wall or fencing material. To check for leaks or water line breaks, look for any areas not getting coverage. If you see an empty spot, or water bubbling up or forming on the sidewalk, you may have a break in the underground line. A lot of systems have underground soaker lines. One of the reasons to run the system for at least two minutes is to see if you're getting more water in one area or another. Look for low water pressure on heads, or a change of pressure between heads (one is spraying hard and fast, but the next is just trickling). Make sure rotating heads are actually rotating after being dormant for a few months. After running the sprinklers, check for soil erosion or sinkholes, another sign of an underground broken line. If you find any problems, most of these are relatively easy to fix. You can find a YouTube video and get parts at your local hardware store. The biggest problem is that it's just a pain in the butt to dig down and find the lines. If you're not into DIY, call a sprinkler irrigation company. This summer, make sure you go to your city website under water conservation for tips and directives on making the most of your watering, what days to water, how long, etc.

Test Your Sprinkler Like a Home Inspector

We are moving into Spring, and soon it will be time to turn on the sprinklers. If you have a sprinkler system at home, now is the time to...

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A lot of homeowners have been dealing with different types of water damage caused by the extreme winter weather in February, so we're taking a look at some of the different kinds of water damage we see as home inspectors; i.e. some things home buyers will want to look for as they're shopping for homes this spring. Discolored flooring is a good indicator that you have water between the floor and the slab. This was likely caused by the negative drainage in the back of the home. This Inspector found a pretty crazy surprise upon returning to re-inspect a home after repairs had been done. Before you ask, no, ductwork is not rated for use as a water balloon. In this case, the Inspector followed the path of the potential water leak and found it leaking through the foundation slab. Whether the water is outside coming in, or inside going out, water can be incredibly destructive when it goes where it's not supposed to be!

Water Damage After Winter Weather

A lot of homeowners have been dealing with different types of water damage caused by the extreme winter weather in February, so we're...

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Who doesn’t love a good holiday metaphor? It’s almost Valentine’s Day, and as Home Inspectors we know that the relationship you have with your home is important. Remember the first time you glimpsed your home on Zillow? The first showing when you started to picture where your stuff would go, and how your family might grow there? We’re here to help make the romance last with your home! Care for your home like you would in any healthy relationship. 1. Give Your Home A Special Treat Now and Then Having your AC serviced is like getting your partner a spa day. Technically you could do it yourself, but leave it to a professional to really get the kinks out. Like the fins on this outdoor unit- yikes! 2. Deal With Problems Right Away As in any relationship, it’s easier to deal with a problem when it’s fresh than when it’s been allowed to fester- like this water leak that has grown mold and is breaking down the wall. (Metaphors galore!) 3. A Hug Can Do A World of Good Wrap your home in the warm embrace of at least 13 inches of insulation. 4. In With The Good And Out With The Bad Green features like solar screens, window and door seals and insulation keep your home performing efficiently in every season. Everything is better when your bills are lower. The key to a healthy relationship is communication; and the way we communicate with our homes is with regular maintenance and by paying attention to the little things, every day. Have a home maintenance question, or need an opinion about how to handle a repair? Check out ZupKeep, where you can #AskAHomeInspector to consult on your home issues.

Love is... Home Maintenance

Who doesn’t love a good holiday metaphor? It’s almost Valentine’s Day, and as Home Inspectors we know that the relationship you have with...

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One of the things home buyers should be extra wary of when purchasing a home is a one that's been recently flipped. As home inspectors, we see a lot of mistakes made by flippers who are either 1) trying to move too quickly to flip the home to do thorough work, or 2) not qualified to perform the work and get it wrong. Even worse, we sometimes see shoddy or improperly done work that has been covered up by flippers, hoping the sale will go through without anyone noticing. Of course there are some great house flippers who do wonderful work, but it's a common enough problem that home buyers should be on the lookout. Here are a few examples of problems we've found in flip houses. #thatsafirst FYI, you don't want air registers in the shower. It might sound nice to have a blast of heat during your shower, but the moisture and steam from the shower will get in that vent, and now you have a mold problem. This flipper added a shower but didn't want to go to the trouble of relocating the register. #wearamask This is a brand new tankless water heater that has been installed in an attic without the flue pipe. That means the carbon dioxide put off by the water heater is just leaking into the attic and collecting there, which is a massive health and fire hazard. #ZenandtheArtofSinkInstallation This beautiful sink loses its Zen-like appeal when you run the water and it splashes in your face and out all over the floor. Our Inspector noticed a few things the flipper left out of the bathroom renovation. If you're purchasing a home that has been recently flipped, just make sure you have a home inspector check for any short cuts that may have been taken. Request a free quote for a Dallas - Fort Worth home inspection here.

Buying a Flip House

One of the things home buyers should be extra wary of when purchasing a home is a one that's been recently flipped. As home inspectors,...

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Home improvement is one of the most popular New Year's Resolutions, and like most resolutions, you won't get very far if you don't have a plan. As home inspectors, we have a unique view of people's homes, ostensibly when they're trying to put their best foot forward. Whether or not you're planning a home sale in 2021, we put together some resolutions for your home. Oddly enough, they work pretty well for other areas of your life, too. 1. Declutter Piles of stuff up against more piles of stuff is never a good idea. First, it's a fire hazard. Second, guess who is probably living behind that pile of stuff? Third, if your home is on the market and it looks like this, not only will you turn off buyers, but your home inspector can't reach important stuff like the panel box, attic access, etc, and that could screw up your contract. 2. Go Green Energy efficiency is among the top priorities for today's homebuyers. If you haven't yet ditched the incandescent bulbs, you're wasting money and increasing your footprint unnecessarily. Upgrades like energy efficient windows, spray foam insulation, and newer, more efficient appliances are worth it. (Also, 1995 called. It wants its light fixture back.) 3. Deal with problems head on. Nobody ever solved anything by sweeping it under the rug. Or in this case the pile of rags. On the left you can see the strategically placed pile, on the right the cracked tile that likely indicates foundation movement. Just because you can't see it doesn't mean it's not there, and probably getting worse. 4. Purge Toxicity If you have a pest infestation, don't just buy traps and forget about it! You have to keep working till the problem is gone. (Also, clear your traps when your house is on the market, because YUCK.) If your vents look like this, stop looking away! You are breathing this crap! As with life, problems that are allowed to fester unchecked can become toxic. A solid plan will get all of your goals accomplished in 2021. Here's to a happier, healthier New Year!

New Year's Resolutions For Your Home

Home improvement is one of the most popular New Year's Resolutions, and like most resolutions, you won't get very far if you don't have a...

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Most people think about getting a home inspection when they're buying a home. A Buyer's Inspection helps you learn about the home so you can negotiate with the seller and/or plan for future expenses. Another type of home inspection is known as a Pre-Listing Inspection. A Pre-Listing inspection is useful when you're planning to sell your home so you can make decisions about what you want to fix or improve, and what you want to leave "as is." Armed with a pre-listing inspection report, you can make decisions about how to price the home, and know ahead of time what may come up at the negotiating table. As the DFW area transitions to more of a Buyer's Market, this is a great tool for sellers, who may not be fortunate enough to be choosing between multiple offers on their home. Here are some examples of why it's a good idea to have a Pre-Listing Inspection: When you live in a house for a while, some of the quirky DIY fixes you've done over the years become your normal, but might look kind of janky to a potential buyer. You may want to replace this with a more "industry standard" set up. Again - this quick fix may have worked for you thus far, but your prospective buyer may ask for an real drain pan here. Here we have some soil erosion that has taken place, uncovering too much of the foundation. This will get called out on an inspection report. This is an example of something you could probably fix yourself, or have a friend or family member do for you - building up the ground level around the foundation. If it becomes a negotiation issue with a buyer, you will have to use a licensed vendor and show receipts. The HVAC system is one of the most costly and important parts of the home, and you can bet your potential buyers will be interested in how it is functioning. In a pre-listing inspection, you'll get a sense of how your buyers will view it. Is it near the end of its life, or does it just need to be cleaned and serviced? Better to know before you go on the market. In this video, the inspector makes recommendations for an HVAC system. The more details you can fix ahead of time, the better your house will look to a prospective buyer - and the more $$ you can save doing work yourself, as opposed to hiring a professional. A lot of little things can make for a long inspection report and make your buyer think the home needs too much work. Get a quote for a Pre-Listing Inspection here.

Know Before You Sell - Pre-Listing Inspections

Most people think about getting a home inspection when they're buying a home. A Buyer's Inspection helps you learn about the home so you...

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John Wooden said, "Little things make big things happen." Wooden meant to inspire us to value the details that lead to a victory, but the reverse is true as well. When you let little things go, they can become big problems. And when it comes to home maintenance issues, we couldn't have said it better. Here are a few times that homeowners let little maintenance issues go way too long. When you don't have your HVAC serviced, you end up breathing this: In this video, you can see how over time, a little water can do a lot of damage. By not addressing the drainage from the beginning, the garage will likely have to be rebuilt. Part of your home inspection report will let you know the age and function of the major appliances, like the water heater. If the inspector says an appliance is near the end of its life, you'll want to make plans to replace it before you have a disaster. You know that saying about how the shoemaker's children go barefoot? Sometimes home inspectors don't heed their own advice.

When Little Things Become Big Problems

John Wooden said, "Little things make big things happen." Wooden meant to inspire us to value the details that lead to a victory, but the...

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When we inspect older homes, we often find original or "as built" conditions that are no longer up to current building code. As a homeowner (or home buyer), you'd want to know about this because 1) the material or installation is no longer considered safe and 2) replacing it may be costly. Here are few examples of things we've found that were considered OK when the house was built, but aren't anymore: Knob & Tube Wiring Knob & Tube Wiring was the standard for electrical wiring in homes from about the 1880's through the 1930's when it was deemed both unsafe and more costly than cable wiring. We don't often see Knob & Tube wiring, and even less often do we see it actually in use. This was found in a historic home, and would be even more of a fire hazard considering the age of the equipment. Cast Iron Pipes Cast iron pipes first came into use in the US in the early 1800's, and you still see them in use in older homes. Unfortunately cast iron pipes have a life expectancy, and begin to corrode over time. Replacing them can be pretty expensive. This is a corroded and blistered cast iron pipe, seen from the crawl space in a pier & beam house. You'll see cast iron pipes in homes built before about 1980. Grey Ductwork Grey ductwork, or grey flex duct, is a product that was used in homes, mostly in the 1980’s, as insulation for ductwork. It fell out of use by the early 90’s because the outer grey coating was found to deteriorate when exposed to high heat or UV rays. Which means attics are generally a bad place for it to function. This one has pretty much disintegrated. Zinsco Electrical Panels Zinsco was a popular brand of electrical panel in the 1970's. The company is now defunct, but some homes built in the 70's still have these unsafe panels. Our Inspector Brian demonstrates the danger using his thermal imaging camera. Thinking about purchasing on older aged, or historic home? We have service packages tailored to the age of the home, and can help answer any concerns you have.

Older Homes: They Don't Make It Like That Anymore

When we inspect older homes, we often find original or "as built" conditions that are no longer up to current building code. As a...

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It takes a trained eye to pick up on all the things a home inspector is looking for, but some problems in a home stand out more than others. Can you tell what's wrong in these pictures? The High-Low switch is mislabeled. This wouldn't actually be flagged on an inspection report, but it just seems wrong, doesn't it? How about this one? This rather medieval looking door lock can't be opened from the other side. Which of course is a fire and safety hazard, as well as being more than a little bit creepy. This one is harder. That is asbestos pipe insulation. It's not necessarily a cause for panic. Asbestos is not dangerous unless it's breaking down. But if you have asbestos on your pipes, you'd want to have a plumber out to check them and determine whether you need to hire an asbestos remediation company to remove them. Have questions about the house you own, or a house you hope to purchase? #AskAHomeInspector. Book a home inspection online here.

What's Wrong With This Picture? #InspectionFinds

It takes a trained eye to pick up on all the things a home inspector is looking for, but some problems in a home stand out more than...

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From spooky history to surprise expenses, buying a home can be SCARY! The experience of buying a home is so fraught with emotion. For many, it’s the biggest and most important investment you’ll ever make. The dream of home ownership is rooted in what it means to be an adult in America. What if it burns down? I don’t care who you are, fire is scary. In this house, our inspector uncovered evidence of a previous fire that is honestly pretty creepy. Lightning had struck the panel box causing a fire that had spread through the house. Most evidence of the fire had been repaired and replaced except for some charring in the attic and the burn marks from the lightning: What if the foundation collapses? Foundation repair is scary because it’s expensive and disruptive and can cause all kinds of collateral repair/replacement. Here’s a larger than normal deflection crack: What if the house is infested with rats or spiders or killer wasps? Bugs and rodents are scary! In this house, the inspector found more than 20 active wasp nests around the exterior of the house and more in the attic. And this one is just mean: What might be lurking under the house? Crawl spaces are scary. The scariest thing the owner and original Green Scene Home Inspector ever found in a crawl space was a live WWII artillery shell. Another Inspector told me he inspected a home where not one, but TWO murders had taken place, and said he felt creeped out the whole time. This Inspector turned around a found he had a buddy in the crawl space with him. The moral of the story is, no matter how bad a house is, it could always be worse: You can avoid unpleasant surprises in your new home by having a thorough, professional home inspection. Book online now. 6 Attachments

Home Buyer's Biggest Fears

From spooky history to surprise expenses, buying a home can be SCARY! The experience of buying a home is so fraught with emotion. For...

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It's important to maintain your sense of humor in any job, especially in these trying times. This week, we thought we'd share a few things that made us giggle. Can't decide which compressor to buy? How about one of each? Variety is the spice of life. Pro Tip: when you put your house on the market, people are going to look in the cabinets. This homeowner's prospective buyers got to see this interesting collection of products: assorted dirty beer glasses, cereal, air freshener, athlete's foot powder, toothbrush (EW), and that blurred out object - we won't say what it is, but it rhymes with WRONG. As a homeowner, it's important to know when it's time to call a professional. This guy gets MacGuyver points for creativity. Fences aren't the only things that make good neighbors. See if you can spot the problem.

Home Inspection Humor

It's important to maintain your sense of humor in any job, especially in these trying times. This week, we thought we'd share a few...

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If you're considering selling your house this fall, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success. Taking care of some aesthetic and/or maintenance issues will make your property more attractive to buyers and keep you from having to deal with lots of back-and-forth during the process of selling. 1. Check for common deal breakers like mold, pests, and rodents. There are some things that people can't unsee that will make your house hard to sell. Mold is potentially dangerous to your health and hard (expensive) to get rid of. When a potential buyer sees this: She's imagining this: Pests and/or rodents can send a lot of people away with visions of horror movies and lasting nightmares. Have a pest control company out to deal with any potential issue BEFORE you list. Because a buyer coming across this, probably won't be making an offer: (TW: LOTS of rat poop) 2. Recover from the harsh Texas summer. Preparing your home to sell in the fall in North Texas is often about recovering from summer. Summer storms and high heat are hard on your home. Check for soil erosion around the foundation; clear leaves and debris from your gutters, drain spouts, and roof surfaces; cut back tree branches from roof edges and electrical wires, check chimney flashing and roof/attic seals, and have your pool closed for the season professionally. It's hard to picture a relaxing day by the pool when you're looking at this: 3. Check the major systems of your home. How is the HVAC running? Appliances all in good working condition? How old is your water heater? Call a pro to do maintenance so you're putting your property's best foot forward. Check your sprinkler system for damaged or missing heads, malfunctioning heads, or heads pointed in the wrong direction. A simple head replacement that you could do yourself will cost a lot more if you have to use a licensed pro for the repair once you're under contract. Plus, this type of stuff is just silly: You can get yourself a comprehensive guide to everything that is wrong with your house before you sell by getting a pre-listing home inspection. The benefit - you can handle any repairs yourself and no surprises at the negotiation table. Something to be aware of is - any repair issues you know about have to be listed in the seller's disclosure.

Preparing Your House For A Fall Sale

If you're considering selling your house this fall, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success. Taking care of some...

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When a person decides to list a home for sale, one would think that it would be obvious that while it's on the market, potential buyers and real estate professionals will be coming through the house. So you'd think a person would want to prepare the home to be seen. In the real estate biz, we know this is so often not the case. Just what any prospective buyer looks for: luxurious outdoor living. Wouldn't you like to spend a relaxing afternoon on the patio in this hammock? Nothing says "comfort" to a prospective buyer like a cozy 38 degrees inside the house. Clogged, moldy air vents seem like a huge selling point to us, what do you think? The trail of moldy air along the ceiling is particularly nice. Even if you're not going to get your AC serviced, wouldn't you take some Windex to the vent and wall before putting your home on the market? Yikes. A water feature is definitely high on a lot of potential home buyers' lists! This particular water feature leaves much to be desired, however. #Yuck

What Were They Thinking? Bad Real Estate Photos

When a person decides to list a home for sale, one would think that it would be obvious that while it's on the market, potential buyers...

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After you've done about 7,000 home inspections, a few common themes emerge. People tend to neglect the same kinds of things in their homes, and of course, Mother Nature affects the homes in a certain area in the same sorts of ways. As a home owner, or a Realtor working with homeowners, these commonalities are good to be aware of, so you can take care of your home while you own it, and look for potential problems when you're buying a new one. Plumbing is one of the number one things that home buyers end up having issues with after a purchase. Plumbing can be tricky because so much of the system isn't visible. What a home inspector does, is to test all of the equipment - sinks, showers, tubs, toilets, etc.- to make sure they're functioning properly, and then visually inspect in and around the home to detect signs of leaks. If your inspector finds something wrong, it's a good idea to call in a plumber to investigate further, so you know if you're dealing with a simple clog or total equipment failure. In this photo, the inspector found a leak to the outside that was coming from a leaky shower pan. A mid-range repair issue, but something that's good to know before you move in. The dreaded wood-destroying insects: termites, carpenter ants, powderpost beetles and bark beetles. All too common is North Texas, WDIs can really do a number on your home if they get out of control. Your pest control service can easily help you keep this under control, but the danger is, often you don't know it's happening until it's already bad. We recommend getting a WDI Inspection on a home you're purchasing, so your inspector can search for signs of previous or current infestations. The foundation is another big one in our area, but there's no need to freak out if you see some minor cracks here and there. During a home inspection, your inspector will look for signs of movement like cracks, out-of-level floors, doors that don't open or close properly, etc. They will let you know if the signs are within normal limits or if you should call a foundation expert. Pro-tip: call a structural engineer if you're concerned about the foundation. Foundation repair companies will usually come give you an estimate for free - but they want to do the repairs. The structural engineer will give you an unbiased report that tells you what needs fixing and what doesn't. At Green Scene Home Inspections, we provide a video with every home inspection report to help you better understand everything we find. Get a free quote for your North Texas home inspection here.

Common Problems: Around The House

After you've done about 7,000 home inspections, a few common themes emerge. People tend to neglect the same kinds of things in their...

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While the spring is typically known as peak real estate season, that doesn’t mean that you can’t sell your home (at a profit) during other times of the year – including Fall. As colder weather approaches, the fall is a perfect time for homeowners who are trying to sell to consider taking steps to prepare their homes for potential buyers. Unfortunately, sometimes homeowners overlook minor issues causing buyers to walk away due to a small flaw that could have been resolved had the seller known what to look for. That’s why we consulted the experts in home inspection/maintenance from New York to Sacramento to provide our audience with some tips for preparing a home for sale in the fall. Get a Pre-Listing Inspection Pre-listing inspections help reduce stress by identifying issues upfront. Having your own professional home inspection report reduces your liability as a seller if issues come up during the buyer’s inspection. When waiting for the buyer’s inspection, you have much less time for negotiations, leaving you with limited options for having repairs done. Pre-listing gives you more time to make repairs or updates, which you can include as a selling point in the listing. Also, buyers can feel more comfortable knowing you already had an inspection, potentially leading them to make an offer more quickly. – Cornerstone Inspection Services Consult with a professional home inspection prior to listing the home for sale. Why not have a home expert inform the seller the things the buyer’s inspector is going to find. Many real estate transactions are terminated post buyer inspection as the seller typically has no idea the overall general condition of the home and are often shocked by the findings. It would make the whole home buying process much easier and take the anxiety out of the often-dreaded buyers’ inspection. – Gate City Home Inspections At High Point Home Inspection we go up over and underneath the property with a fine-tooth comb, looking for problems, bearing the safety of your family first and your bank account second. Then we talk about possible solutions to any repairs or necessary replacements we may encounter. We do not want you walking away from your dream house over a water heater, but we don’t want you buying a money pit either. We want you to ask as many questions as you need to so that you can make an informed decision. – High Point Home Inspections Common Deal Breakers The 3 biggest ‘deal killers’ are mice, mold, and moisture. Before listing your home, take a good close look around – or consider having an inspector take a look. Mice and other pest issues deter new buyers. Look in the back of cabinets, the top of foundation walls near service penetrations to the outside, and in the attic insulation (tunnels & trails). Mold, and the moisture issues that feed it, should also be identified, corrected, and cleaned away before it scares away potential buyers. – Insight Property Services Conducive Conditions We often see bushes and shrubs too close to the exterior of the building as well as tree branches overhanging and in contact with the roof. We also recommend making sure that trees and other plants aren’t too close to the block fence around the house and that they are not being over-watered to prevent footing and fence damage due to root intrusion or moisture degraded blocks in the fence. – The Inspection People Foundation Drainage Is Key To Avoiding Water Intrusion A very important and usually overlooked easy maintenance tip, extend all of the roof drainage leaders away from the foundation as well as in-ground sprinklers to be aimed away to reduce water infiltration into the basement or crawl space, we, as inspectors always look for these items to help protect our clients and make it easier for the seller to remedy these situations so that we do not have to report on them at the time of the home inspection. – Long Island Expert Home Inspections One of the most important and easiest tasks is to make sure that your downspouts are draining five feet away from the house and that you have a positive slope away from the foundation. This will prevent water intrusion in the basement or crawlspace which most likely will lead to mold. – Mejaro Inspection Services One of the most important maintenance tips I would recommend would be to clean the gutters annually or even twice a year if needed. Make sure all downspout extensions are a minimal of 4 to 6 feet from the home to prevent water intrusions and water damage. – Reliable Solutions Home Inspection Depending on your area, homeowners should all make sure their gutters are cleaned out and free-flowing. It’s also vital they extend the downspouts several feet away from the foundation. This does a couple of things. First, it helps to ensure you don’t have leaks around the foundation, and second It helps prevent foundation movement that can occur if the soil around the house stays soupy/wet from the roof water draining next to the foundation. – ABI Home Services When prepping your home to sell during the fall, it is vital to ensure proper drainage around foundations. As monsoon season winds down at the end of summer, heavy rainfall can saturate the ground, causing possible structural damage and water intrusion into your basement. Make sure to avoid plants or grass next to the foundation that need watering. Instead, consider covering the area with concrete pavers and use pots for plants. Also, check downspouts and gutter systems to divert water away from the structure, and cover egress windows to protect from water intrusion and damage to the basement. A wet basement is a perfect environment for mold growth and water damage, which can create serious health issues caused by breathing poor-quality air. – Envirocore Tidy Up You want your home to look like it has been well maintained. Have the HVAC serviced, the ducts cleaned, get the chimney inspected, replace old smoke detectors, no peeling paint or rotten wood, and trim the bushes. Have the paperwork showing that appliances have been serviced and maintained. There are plenty of ways to show that you have been keeping up with the maintenance and not letting things run down. – Hurlbert Home Inspection General Fall Maintenance The fall is a great time to clean your gutters and close your crawl space foundation vents for the winter. You should wait until most if not all the leaves fall off the trees around your house. This usually occurs when the night time temperatures start to get pretty chilly. This would be the precise time to close those foundation vents and prevent any freezing pipes under your home. (Don’t forget to open them again in the spring.) In addition to those items, the sprinkler system should be blown out with an air compressor so that when the ground freezes the water in the pipes does not destroy all your fittings and sprinkler heads. Most homeowners do not have an air compressor large enough to adequately remove the water. Paying someone with a dedicated mobile air compressor is usually the best solution. If you order your sprinkler blow out in October or early November it’s usually cheaper than if you wait until December. I have found that if you wait until the end when it’s really cold they charge double so it pays not to wait until the last minute. – Guardian Home Inspection We always recommend sellers prepare their listings for the fall season by having their pool and irrigation systems closed up by a professional who can provide a letter of “good working order”. Additionally, service the AC and have the same paperwork. A buyer will have more confidence in their purchase. Beyond those seasonal tips, we recommend a Seller Preparation Inspection so a seller knows the facts and is in control of the information. Sellers have options on what to do with the information: repair items, disclose conditions and get price quotes prior to listing. Remember, the property conditions will be revealed eventually so get ahead in the process for a smoother transaction. – Tiger Inspection Ensure Detectors Are Functional Fall around here means dropping leaves and possibly getting another cord of wood for your fireplace when the temperatures fall. Even if you have a gas fireplace, any home that has a natural fuel-burning appliance should have a Smoke AND a Carbon Monoxide detector installed. As you get ready to fire up those appliances consider having them serviced by a qualified professional to ensure they are going to operate safely and efficiently this winter and ensure your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors are in good working order.- Gold Star Home Inspections Inspect For Mold Mold removal can be very costly and is a major deterrent for potential buyers. We are seeing an uptick in pre-sale mold inspections so sellers can address any and all issues prior to putting the home on the market. One of the most commonly overlooked areas in the home is attics, particularly in the Northeast and colder states, mold in attics is a big problem because of improper ventilation. Most of my clients have had a roof replaced or recently insulated and then come to find they have mold that comes up during a home inspection. Mold is also commonly overlooked in AC units, on the vents, in the ductwork and in the air handler. – HNST Mold Inspections Recover From the Harsh Summer Weather Preparing your home to sell in the fall is often about recovering from summer! Summer storms and high heat are hard on your home. Check for soil erosion around the foundation; clear leaves and debris from your gutters, drain spouts, and roof surfaces; cut back tree branches from roof edges and electrical wires, and check chimney flashing and roof/attic seals. – Green Scene Home Inspections Show Pride in Ownership Showing some pride in ownership goes a long way for both buyers and inspectors. So keep the house clean, take care of those minor issues. You’ll be surprised if the difference it will make in selling your home. – Healthy Home Inspections Originally Published on Redfin

Prepping To Sell in the Fall: Experts Weigh-In

While the spring is typically known as peak real estate season, that doesn’t mean that you can’t sell your home (at a profit) during...

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At Green Scene, our "motto" is Knowledge is Power: the power to negotiate, the power to plan, and the power to protect your home. The purpose of a home inspection is so that you can make an informed decision when you're making such an important investment. So let's take a look at the ways you can utilize your home inspection to negotiate, to plan, and to protect your home. Negotiate These beautiful double-paned, energy efficient windows are a huge selling point until you realize those smudgy, dirty places on the window are actually inside the panes. The thermal seal has broken on these windows, so they're not so energy efficient anymore, and you can't wipe away those smears. After finding this on your inspection report, you might have your Realtor negotiate window replacement into your contract. You could ask that the seller replace the windows before closing, or put cash back into the agreement so you can choose your own windows. Here's a closer look: Plan In this video, our Inspector noticed some discoloration in the wall and showed a huge reading on his moisture detector. He suspects that the bathtub is draining under the house rather than through the pipes and out to the street like it's supposed to. If water is flooding under the house, this could be a big and costly repair. This home buyer will want to consult with a plumber and possibly a foundation expert before moving forward. If the seller isn't willing to make the repair, the buyer will be able to go forward knowing they'll have to plan for this expense. Protect In this video, our Inspector finds signs of foundation movement and previous repair in the garage. This home buyer will want to get the paperwork from the repair and find out how to transfer the warranty so they can protect their investment. Questions about what's included in a home inspection?

How Do I Use My Home Inspection Report?

At Green Scene, our "motto" is Knowledge is Power: the power to negotiate, the power to plan, and the power to protect your home.

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The air in your house can contain pollutants, allergens, and irritants, which can negatively affect your health in all kinds of ways. With people spending even more time at home, it's a good idea to find ways to detoxify the air. Did you know that certain kinds of plants can do just that? House plants also make you more calm and relaxed, and have been shown to improve memory and concentration! Here are some examples of plants that will help detoxify the air in your home. Peace Lily These vibrant green beauties have a lovely blossom in the spring or summer and are easy to take care of. They are renowned for removing carbon dioxide and formaldehyde from their environment. Mother-in-Law's Tongue The name alone recommends this hardy succulent plant! This is a great plant for those of us with a "black thumb" that struggle with keeping plants alive. And it's known to remove pollutants from the air! Spider Plant Spider plants are bright and easy to care for. They are great for a hanging planter, and thrive in indirect sunlight. They remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air. Pothos These pretty plants grow vines and are beautiful in a hanging planter or along a shelf. They clean the air of a number of toxins. Broad Lady Palm This highly adaptable plant is lush and easy to take care of. It will grow up to six feet tall, and clears the air of a variety of toxins like ammonia, carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, and xylene.

Plants That Clean The Air In Your House

Did you know that certain kinds of plants can pull toxins from the air. House plants also make you more calm and relaxed,

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It's summer in North Texas and that can mean extra stress on the systems of your home. There are lots of things to look out for around the house during the summer, and a little home maintenance can help you save time, effort, and money. Here are few examples of things to look out for this summer: In the first picture you can see a Pool Filter Pressure Gauge registering a pressure of 18 pounds. You want that below 15 pounds. The second picture shows the dirty pool filter. Once that filter was cleaned, the pressure went right back down. If you have a pool at home, make sure you clean the filter regularly. In this shot, you can see where the A/C refrigerant lines are resting on an air duct, restricting the air flow and possibly damaging the duct as well. Blocked air ducts are one of the major reasons your AC might not be working efficiently. If you're having trouble keeping your home cool, take a look at the duct work to make sure they're not blocked, broken, or turned too sharply. This might have been a scary surprise for a new homeowner. It's high season for stinging insects, and many of them like to build their nests around our homes. Bees sometimes build their hives inside walls, which make good, protected spots for building combs. Removal can be tricky because a pest control expert may have to cut into the wall. Sprinkler systems are expensive equipment that need to be maintained and check to continue working properly. You'd be amazed how many homeowners never check to see if they have missing or leaking heads, heads pointed at pavement, heads that don't work at all. Don't waste water using a malfunctioning sprinkler system this summer!

Help Your Home Survive Brutal North Texas Summers

It's summer in North Texas and that can mean extra stress on the systems of your home. There are lots of things to look out for around...

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Despite the current pandemic, the Dallas-Fort Worth area has seen a growth in home sales this summer. As we continue to navigate this crisis, we hope that everyone involved in a real estate transaction will keep safety and the health of those most vulnerable to the Covid-19 virus in mind. Advice For Sellers: As we've been endeavoring to complete home inspections during this time, we've been surprised by some of the push-back we've had from people, insisting on staying at home, even following inspectors and other vendors around while they work. It's difficult enough to sell your home during a global pandemic, wouldn't you want to ensure every phase of the sale goes through without a hitch? 1. Ask your Realtor to clear all vendor appointments with you (home inspector, appraiser, electrician, plumber, or others the buyer may have come through during the option period), and plan to be out of the house if possible. 2. If you can't leave, practice social distancing within your home, and stay clear of the workers so they can get in and out as quickly as possible. 3. Make sure any home vendors are wearing masks, gloves, and protective booties as they enter your home. Advice For Home Buyers If you've been fortunate enough to find and make an offer on a home during quarantine, first of all, congratulations! During the option period, you have the chance to get as much info about the home as possible. You'll want to have a home inspection and an appraisal, and you may need to call in additional experts if the inspector finds problems, like a plumber, electrician or foundation repair. 1. Choose vendors that are taking extra steps to ensure safety, like wearing protective gear, checking appointment times via BOTH Realtors to ensure multiple vendors aren't present at the same time, and offering virtual or video reporting. 2. Don't attend these appointments. Your home inspector should be able to walk you through the report without you being physically present. (We provide a video with every report.) Advice For Home Shoppers If you're shopping for a home, take advantage of virtual tours, 3D imaging and internet research while you shop, and only personally visit the homes you're really serious about. 1. If a home doesn't have a good online presence, see if your Realtor will do a FaceTime walk through with you. 2. Wear a mask, gloves, and shoe coverings when you tour a home. Advice for Real Estate Professionals Everyone involved with a real estate transaction should be taking extra precautions to protect their clients' and their own health. Best practices include: 1. Keeping appointments virtual whenever possible. 2. Wearing a mask and maintaining social distance when meeting in person. 3. Wearing a mask, gloves, and shoe coverings when entering a home. 4. Arranging appointments at the homes to ensure minimal contact among Realtors, homeowners, buyers, and other vendors. We can begin to get back to business, but we can do so safely and mindfully. And, no matter what side of the real estate transaction you're on, if you or someone close to you has been ill, err on the side of caution and stay home.

Real Estate in the Time of Covid19

Despite the current pandemic, the Dallas-Fort Worth area has seen a growth in home sales this summer. As we continue to navigate this crisis

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As you can imagine, crawling around under houses, in attics, and in all the nooks and crannies of a house, home inspectors run into a lot of bugs. Many home inspectors perform WDI Inspections (Wood Destroying Insects), but we are not pest control experts. A home inspector will look for signs of current or previous pest infestations, and let you know whether you need to call pest control for further evaluation. It didn't take a home inspector to discover this ant infestation. This house is FOR SALE. Wouldn't you think they'd want to, I don't know, sweep the bodies into the trash before a prospective buyer comes by? Yep, that's a black widow! If you see one of these ladies, you should calmly back away, or SMASH it, depending on your degree of terror. Black widows tend to lurk in piles of wood or boxes, eaves, or other dark, undisturbed areas. Since home inspectors are in the "disturbing" business, we run into them from time to time. They are venomous, and a black widow bite can be pretty severe. you can find more info on black widows in North Texas here. If that doesn't make you feel creepy crawly, this will. Termites aren't the only type of Wood Destroying Insect we find in North Texas. Carpenter Ants are very common. These little guys aren't nearly as destructive as termites, but they can be annoying, hard to get rid of, and they bite. You can read more about Carpenter Ants in North Texas here. When you're buying a home, it's a good idea to know whether the home has had problems with insect infestations. As a homeowner, you want to schedule regular pest control visits so that any infestations can be treated before they get out of control. Between ants, termites, yellow jackets and spiders, there are lots of pests who'd like to build their homes in and around yours.

Home Inspection Spotlight: North Texas Insects

As you can imagine, crawling around under houses, in attics, and in all the nooks and crannies of a house, home inspectors run into a lot...

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"Broken thermal seals on double pane windows," might be a deficiency you see on your home inspection report. Here's what they look like and why it's a problem.

Broken Thermal Seals on Double Pane Windows

"Broken thermal seals on double pane windows," might be a deficiency you see on your home inspection report. Here's what they look like...

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This might have been a scary surprise for a new homeowner. Bees sometimes build their hives inside walls, which make good, protected spots for building combs. Removal can be tricky because a pest control expert may have to cut into the wall. Find out more about common pests of North Texas. Find out more about home inspection services.

Bees in the Wall! #AskAHomeInspector

This might have been a scary surprise for a new homeowner. Bees sometimes build their hives inside walls, which make good, protected...

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Did you know "moist" is the most hated word in the English language? It's science. "Moist" can be a bad word when it comes to your home, too. Moisture can wreak havoc in your house when it gets in the wrong places. These are some of the wrong places: Under the carpet. Yes, those are mushrooms growing in the carpet. Prolonged exposure to moisture has allowed fungus to form including actual mushrooms. Along an exterior wall. In this photo, the patio is slightly out of level, causing water to pool along the exterior wall. Again, prolonged exposure to moisture may have allowed it to creep up the interior of the wall. There could be water damage and/or mold in the wall. In the shower pan. One of the tests a home inspector does is a shower pan stress test. We plug the shower and let it run for about an hour, allowing water to build up. If no water is leaking, the shower pan is doing its job, directing excess water down the drain. In this photo, you can see the caulking is missing in the floor, indicating the shower will likely not hold water. If this shower is in use, it will have been leaking into the walls. Under the floor. In this video, what might have been mistaken for a minor aesthetic issue revealed a much more costly problem. Over time, moisture can break down building structures and allow dangerous mold to accumulate - bad for both your health and your wallet. If you suspect you may have water intrusion in your home, you can have a Moisture Analysis Test done, which can help identify where the water is and what experts are needed to repair the issue.

Moisture Is Not Your House's Friend

Did you know "moist" is the most hated word in the English language? It's science. "Moist" can be a bad word when it comes to your home,...

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A home inspection is important. It gives you the knowledge you need to make decisions about a home - and knowledge is power. The power to negotiate when you're buying a home, the power to plan for expenses down the road, and the power to protect your home from future problems. It's our job to give you that knowledge, and we want to make sure you get it - even if you don't choose us as your home inspector! Here are a few things you should know about choosing a great home inspector: 1. Make sure the home inspection company has full-time W-2 employees. This shows you that the company and its employees are committed to providing a high level of service, that they stand behind their findings and are invested in getting it right. Our Inspectors are full time employees with a vested interest in our customers' satisfaction. 2. Choose a company that has been in business for awhile. A lot of home inspectors come right out of training and start their own business. We're not saying that a new inspector can't be great, but choose one that has a company with years of experience standing behind them. A company with time and money invested in building a company with integrity is more likely to provide you with a professional, seamless experience, with results you can count on. 3. Home inspectors are required to be licensed by the state of Texas. You can check on your inspector's license on the Texas Real Estate Commission's website. All licensed home inspectors should display their license number on their business cards, website, social media, etc. 4. Choose an inspector that guarantees the time of report delivery. In the DFW area, you usually have a limited time during your option period to receive results and be able to make decisions. A good company will provide the report within 24 hours. 5. Price is always a consideration, and our advice is the same as with many things - don't choose the cheapest one or the most expensive one. The best quality and integrity often lies somewhere in the middle. A home inspection in DFW should cost between $350-$500 or more, depending on the size and structures involved. And when you're talking about making a major investment like buying a house, a $50 or $100 savings doesn't mean much - especially if you're sacrificing quality. 5. Take a look at some sample reports to make sure you know what you're getting. Some low cost inspectors do a bare-minimum, checklist style report that doesn't go in-depth into the systems of the house; others have a ton of excess wording and pad the report to make it look impressive. A good, thorough report should be between 20-40 pages and include pictures for your reference. At Green Scene, we take it a step further and provide a video summary with every inspection. See a sample video here. The harsh reality is that some home inspectors are trained to go easy, "don't ruin the deal." It's not a home inspector's job to make or break a real estate transaction, and a home inspector shouldn't have any skin in the game. We are here to give an unbiased, fact-based opinion about how the major and minor systems of a house are operating. Unfortunately that means home inspectors sometimes find problems that make a buyer decide not to purchase the home. That can make both the sellers and the realtors unhappy, so sometimes the home inspector is the bearer of bad tidings. But we find that when everyone has as much knowledge as possible, and Have questions about choosing a home inspector in the Dallas- Fort Worth area? Contact us here, or give us a call at 214.796.7707. We're here to help!

Choosing a DFW Home Inspector

A home inspection is important. It gives you the knowledge you need to make decisions about a home - and knowledge is power. The power to...

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As you can imagine, crawling around under houses, in attics, and in all the nooks and crannies of a house, home inspectors run into a lot of bugs. Many home inspectors perform WDI Inspections (Wood Destroying Insects), but we are not pest control experts. A home inspector will look for signs of current or previous pest infestations, and let you know whether you need to call pest control for further evaluation. It didn't take a home inspector to discover this ant infestation. This house is FOR SALE. Wouldn't you think they'd want to, I don't know, sweep the bodies into the trash before a prospective buyer comes by? Yep, that's a black widow! If you see one of these ladies, you should calmly back away, or SMASH it, depending on your degree of terror. Black widows tend to lurk in piles of wood or boxes, eaves, or other dark, undisturbed areas. Since home inspectors are in the "disturbing" business, we run into them from time to time. They are venomous, and a black widow bite can be pretty severe. you can find more info on black widows in North Texas here. If that doesn't make you feel creepy crawly, this will. Termites aren't the only type of Wood Destroying Insect we find in North Texas. Carpenter Ants are very common. These little guys aren't nearly as destructive as termites, but they can be annoying, hard to get rid of, and they bite. You can read more about Carpenter Ants in North Texas here. When you're buying a home, it's a good idea to know whether the home has had problems with insect infestations. As a homeowner, you want to schedule regular pest control visits so that any infestations can be treated before they get out of control. Between ants, termites, yellow jackets and spiders, there are lots of pests who'd like to build their homes in and around yours. More Info About WDI Inspections.

North Texas Pests Home Inspectors Find Around the House

As you can imagine, crawling around under houses, in attics, and in all the nooks and crannies of a house, home inspectors run into a lot of

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Everyone has those #smh moments on the job, but we have more than our fair share in the real estate biz! This week is dedicated to people who had ONE job and failed. This homeowner really "nailed it" when they drove this nail through the electrical panel. Not sure what the goal was, but the electrical panel is a particularly bad place to get it wrong. #youhadonejob When labeling things is your job, but spelling is not your forte. #youhadonejob "Honey, have you seen my chisel? I can't find it anywhere!" #youhadonejob Getting the installation wrong is a pretty epic fail if that is your only job. This one definitely fits the bill. #youhadonejob If you are buying a home, choose a home inspector who will get the job done right. Book your home inspection online here!

You Had One Job

Everyone has those #smh moments on the job, but we have more than our fair share in the real estate biz! This week is dedicated to people wh

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As summer weather approaches, North Texans will be relying on their air conditioning more and more, and now is the perfect time to make sure it's in good shape. We recommend having your AC serviced at least once a year to make sure you have plenty of coolant, the mechanisms are clean and working properly, and the vents and duct work are set up correctly. It's better to pay to maintain your AC equipment than to pay to repair or replace it. One of the easiest and best ways you can maintain your HVAC system is to change your filters regularly. Clean filters really make a difference in the efficiency of the system and the quality of the air. If you live in Texas you've probably seen this before. It's 100 degrees outside and you're staring at ice on your AC wondering how in the world that happens.There are a few causes of this, but what it comes down to is improper maintenance: not enough coolant, fans aren't working properly, clogged filter, leaks. All of these can cause an overworked system to literally freeze. One of the main components of the HVAC system that homeowners often forget about is the outside unit. On this one, you're looking at some pretty extensive damage, probably caused by hail. If you look closely at the outdoor unit, you'll see lots of tiny fins - when they're damaged, the air flow is restricted and the system can't run properly. There is actually a "comb" that can be used to straighten damaged fins, but we'd recommend having a professional do this for you. Another main component of your HVAC system is the ductwork. Did you know that checking your ductwork is usually NOT part of a standard AC service? You can do a visual inspection of your ductwork to see that it's connected everywhere, and not twisted or blocked. It does you no good to have a great AC if the cold air can't move through your house. Last, remember to call the experts when it comes to AC repair. "See, honey, if I lay a brick on it, it stops banging!" #DIYFail

What's Cooler Than Being Cool?

As summer weather approaches, North Texans will be relying on their air conditioning more and more, and now is the perfect time to make...

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If you're buying a newly constructed home, you might think to yourself, why would I need a home inspection? The truth is, you probably need a home inspection even more on a new construction home. A newly built home hasn't been tested by having someone live in it to find all the little problems and missed details from construction, so having an inspector put the home's systems through some stress is a great idea before you move in. Here are some examples of issues we've found with new homes. This brand new townhome had missing window sills on four exterior windows. Seems like kind of a major oversight. The plumbing on this luxury bathtub is not connected. That would have been a heck of a mess instead of a relaxing bath. The inspector said he's seen this on a number of new construction homes. Oops. When the guy who installed the sprinkler system and the guy who installed the fence don't communicate. We see this specific problem all the time. These are all pretty small issues, but they can add up to big headaches for a new homeowner. Buying a newly constructed house? Get a free quote for a home inspection here. Building a home from the ground up? Make sure you hire a phase inspector!

New Construction Needs An Inspection, Too

If you're buying a newly constructed home, you might think to yourself, why would I need a home inspection? The truth is, you probably...

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The homeowners tried to catch the leaking water, but what happens when the container fills up? Water damage can wreak havoc on walls, floors, ceilings, and more. This is a perfect example of why you might want our new service - Moisture Analysis. The water has spent time on the flooring, seeped through the walls all the way to the exterior. Once the leak is fixed, we can come in with moisture detectors and thermal imaging to see the extent of the moisture damage, to help you know who to call. Find Out More About Moisture Analysis To Locate Water Damage in Your Home

Water Damage Happens Quickly

The homeowners tried to catch the leaking water, but what happens when the container fills up? Water damage can wreak havoc on walls,...

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One of the most common problems we run across as home inspectors is improperly maintained HVAC systems. And the number one issue with HVAC systems is people neglecting their air filtration systems. It's important to change the filters on your vents regularly - most need to be changed once a month. You should also clean the vents themselves, at least quarterly. Dirty, clogged vents make your HVAC work harder to heat and cool your home, not to mention recycling dirty air through your home. Here's a good illustration of the quality of the air coming out of a dirty vent. That's not a shadow. You've probably noticed condensation on or around your vents, particularly when it's humid or when we have dramatic weather shifts. In a functioning system, the condensate line carries the water away. In an improperly maintained system, the moisture can collect and grow mold. And this right here is black mold. A clean filter of the wrong size is better than nothing, but not by a lot. It's a good idea to check the size before you buy. And if you get the wrong size, don't just shove it in there. #lazy If you have pets, you may need to change your filters more often. The best practice is to check your filters at least once a month, and while you're changing them, clean the inside of the vent covers as well. Every 3 months, clean your registers (intake and output vents in each room of your house). A clean HVAC system lasts longer and improves the quality of the air in your home.

Common Home Inspection Problems: Air Filtration

It's important to change the filters on your vents regularly - most need to be changed once a month. You should also clean the vents themsel

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We tried it, and it's super easy! H/T to cdc.gov for the steps.

How To Make A Face Mask Using A Bandana - With No Sewing!

It's easy to make a face mask with a bandana - and no sewing!

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When you're buying a home, the major areas of consideration from an inspector's standpoint are the roof, plumbing, electricity, HVAC, and the foundation. These are your bigger ticket items, so if something is amiss, you may have costly repairs on your hands at some point. Electrical problems can range from inconvenient to downright dangerous, and are usually a result of improper installation, poor maintenance, or older age equipment. Here are some examples of electrical problems we have found in homes. In this shot, you're seeing a temperature gauge pointing at a light switch. The inspector was using a thermal imaging camera to check the energy efficiency of the house when he came across a hot spot, so he used this gauge to measure the temperature at 163 degrees F. That's REALLY hot. A normal light switch shouldn't generate any heat, so the temperature should be about the same as the room. This would indicate that there's a wiring issue that could become a fire hazard pretty easily. In case you still haven't switched incandescent bulbs for energy efficient LED bulbs... yes, those are burn marks from the lights. WRONG HOLE. In this video you'll see something pretty rare - live Knob & Tube wiring. Knob & Tube Wiring was the standard for electrical wiring in homes from about the 1880's through the 1930's when it was deemed both unsafe and more costly than cable wiring. We don't often see Knob & Tube wiring, and even less often do we see it actually in use.

Home Inspection Spotlight on Electricity

When you're buying a home, the major areas of consideration from an inspector's standpoint are the roof, plumbing, electricity, HVAC, and...

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Clayton's Tips For Safe Showings During #CoronaVirus

Clayton's tips for safe real estate showings.

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After you've done about 7,000 home inspections, a few common themes emerge. People tend to neglect the same kinds of things in their homes, and of course, Mother Nature affects the homes in a certain area in the same sorts of ways. As a home owner, or a Realtor working with homeowners, these commonalities are good to be aware of, so you can take care of your home while you own it, and look for potential problems when you're buying a new one. In North Texas, the HVAC is a huge one. Our poor HVAC systems get a workout, especially on those "winter" days when we go from heat in the morning to AC in the afternoon, back to heat at night. You'll want to look at the age and wear on a HVAC system. The average lifespan is 15-20 years - so you'll want to know the age and how well the system has been maintained so you can plan accordingly. The HVAC unit can only do so much if the ducts the conditioned air is traveling through are deficient. We see a lot of ductwork that turns too sharply, cutting off the air (like when you bend a hose). Or ductwork like the picture below that is old, leaking and disintegrating. If your windows and doors aren't sealed properly, that conditioned air is going out while outside air is getting in. In the picture below, you can see the telltale sign of broken window seals - condensation on the glass. In this video, our Inspector shows some of the things we're looking at when we inspect the outside unit.

Common Home Inspection Problems - HVAC

After you've done about 7,000 home inspections, a few common themes emerge. People tend to neglect the same kinds of things in their...

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Do you have a vision of what your next home will be like? What attributes are most important to you? Here are the top 10 most desirable home features according to a report by the National Home Builder's Association. 10. Smart Home Features Eighty percent of home buyers said smart home capabilities like Nest (smart thermostat) and Ring (smart doorbell) were important to them. Home automation from media, to security systems, to temperature control are becoming more important to home owners. 9. Eat-in Kitchen The kitchen is the heart of the home, and buyers are looking for open, functional spaces that accommodate a variety of needs. Over 80% of buyers wanted an eat-in kitchen in their next home. 8. Garage With Storage A garage for parking and storage is a deal-maker or breaker for a lot of people. Eighty-two percent said this was important to them. 7. Ample Closet Space You can never have enough storage space! Home buyers overwhelmingly request homes with lots of closet space. 6. Hardwood Floors Despite innovations in tile and laminate flooring, hardwood floors are still king. Eight-seven percent said they wanted wood floors in their next home. 5. Patio Space to cook out, eat, play and entertain is a major factor for many people when shopping for homes. You can't go wrong with a great patio - 87% said they wanted one. 4. Ceiling Fans Ceiling fans make a bigger difference than you might think for air circulation and cutting heating and cooling costs. A whopping 89% of home buyers are looking for homes equipped with ceiling fans. 3. Energy Efficient Appliances & Windows Smart home buyers know that newer energy efficient windows and appliances are going to save them money and add value to their home - 90% say this is an important feature in purchasing a home.. 2. Exterior Lighting A well-lit home is a safer home, and 92% of home buyers are looking for good outdoor lighting. There's nothing more welcoming than a well-lit home at night. Extra points for energy efficient solar or LED lighting! 1. Laundry Room First-time home buyers may underestimate the importance of a separate, well-placed laundry room, but if you've ever had a poorly planned laundry situation, you'll know why this is at the top of the list. Ninety-three percent of home buyers said they needed a separate laundry room. Buying a home in North Texas? We are DFW's most trusted home inspector. Get a free quote here.

Most Desirable Traits According to Home Buyers

Do you have a vision of what your next home will be like? What attributes are most important to you? Here are the top 10 most desirable...

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This time of year, the weather in North Texas can be pretty unpredictable, to say the least. When there is Big Texas Weather, you need your home to be performing at its best. Rain gutters are one of those things that you don't pay much attention to unless they're not doing their job. These handy devices are meant to help rain flow away from your house and keep from collecting places you don't want it. Because they can go unnoticed, lots of folks forget to maintain their rain gutters, which in our business means that rain gutters come up on a lot of inspection reports. Here are some particularly egregious examples: Apparently we have a secret rooftop smoker? This habit isn't just bad for their lungs. Seriously, that's a lot of butts, though. On this new construction house, the rain gutter were pristine...almost. Seems like a weird place to be eating wings, but to each their own. In this shot you can see that the leaves (and the BEER) have begun to plug up the gutter, and the water doesn't have anywhere to go. Eventually, it will overflow the gutter sending buckets of water below and possibly pulling away from the roof. But seriously, who are all these people smoking, drinking and snacking on their roofs? You know it's been too long since you cleaned out your rain gutter, when A TREE IS GROWING IN IT. As the leaves are falling and storm winds blow debris from your trees and yard across your roof, make sure you take the time to clean out your gutters, or hire a service to do it for you. Working gutters help prevent pooling, flooding, soil erosion and water damage.

Home Inspection Spotlight: Rain Gutters

This time of year, the weather in North Texas can be pretty unpredictable, to say the least. When there is Big Texas Weather, you need...

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If you are like most Americans, buying your home will be the most expensive purchase you’ll ever make. It’s a serious transaction that carries significant financial and emotional ramifications for both you and the seller. Because of this, it makes perfect sense to do your due diligence before signing on the dotted line. "One important structural element that you should always inspect is the home’s foundation," warns Scott from Uptown Dallas Properties. The foundation of a home is the load-bearing portion of the structure. When it’s damaged, the whole structure is compromised. The walls may begin to cave in. The roof may start appearing wavy and saggy. The floors may also begin to crack. At worst, your home could become uninhabitable. So when looking to buy a home, don’t let the excitement get the better of you. What you want to do is to first ensure that the home is structurally sound. But does this mean you shouldn’t consider buying a home with foundation problems? Of course not! It entirely depends on the severity of the problem and the amount of risk that you are willing to take. To help you make the right decision, we listed everything you need to know about buying a home with foundation issues. 1. Look for signs of foundation issues. After expressing interest in a property, what you want to do next is inspect it for structural damage. Check both the inside and outside. While performing the inspection, be on the lookout for the following warning signs. Cracks on the foundation, walls and/or floors. Cracks are often the number one sign that a home is experiencing foundation problems. Now, the size of the cracks matters. If the cracks are simple hairline fissures, then you don’t have anything to worry about. Homes, whether new and old, all experience some sort of settling. However, if the cracks measure even a quarter inch, then that may be a sign of trouble. This could be a sign that the home is experiencing more than an acceptable amount of settling. The house appears to be sinking into the ground. This is what foundation experts normally refer to as foundation settling. In the vast majority of times, homes experiencing this problem usually have vertical gaps. What starts out as a small dip in one section of the home could eventually grow to become a serious issue. Anything exceeding one- and half inch is serious. The house appears to move in an upward direction. Foundation experts usually refer this to as foundation upheaval. This could indicate that the home is experiencing the opposite of “foundation settling.” This problem generally affects the perimeter area of a concrete slab foundation. So make sure you remember this when doing the inspection. Doors failing to function as they should. Sticky doors are often a sign of trouble. Do you notice that the interior doors are sticking or dragging at the top? If so, the problem might be the foundation below. In some cases, the problem may be caused by high levels of humidity. This especially occurs after a period of heavy raining. However, if the problem fails to go away after a few days, then the foundation may be the culprit. Floors appearing to out of level or appearing to be sagging. When foundations move, floors tend to become uneven. This problem often affects concrete slab foundations. Where pier and beam foundations are concerned, floors are prone to sag and squeak. A licensed home inspector can help you identify and interpret these warning signs and advise you about whether further investigation would be a good idea. 2. Call a foundation repair expert. If you notice anything during your inspection, the next step would be to call a foundation repair expert. You can call a foundation repair company or a structural engineer. The goal here is to find out how deep the problem runs. Once you get the inspection report, you should be able to decide whether or not to proceed with the purchase. Normally, sellers won’t object to having the home professionally inspected. However, if they do, then it may be a red flag. It may be best to just walk away. 3. Understand the costs involved. “Foundation problems” are two words that are sure to make any home buyer run screaming. Reason? Costs of fixing foundation problems can easily run the gamut. While minor repairs can cost about $1,000, major ones can cost anything from $5,000 to $30,000. These are the three main things buyers should know about buying a property with foundation issues. The best practice is to have as much information as possible, so that if you decide to purchase the home, you can plan for the expense and time required to repair the issues. Article submitted by our friends at Uptown Dallas Properties.

What You Need to Know About Buying a Property with Foundation Issues

If you are like most Americans, buying your home will be the most expensive purchase you’ll ever make. It’s a serious transaction that...

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One of the things home inspectors run into a lot is homeowners who have attempted DIY repairs and renovations with limited success... or in some cases epic fails. In the picture above, that blue box is a junction box that goes into the wall to source electricity. What you're looking at here is where someone set up a junction box and connected a live wire to it...and just left it. So we have a live wire just sitting there in the cabinet waiting for someone to get shocked or start a fire. Please call an electrician when electricity is involved, people. #DIYFail This particular electrical job shouldn't have required an expert. (Yeah, that's the wrong hole.) #DIYFail That's not how you use caulk. #DIYFail If you decide to install your own water heater, make sure you check whether the area has another use. This DIY-er will discover this the next time he needs to flip a breaker, and he can't open the door to the panel box. #DIYFail These happy homeowners thought they'd save some $$ installing outdoor lighting themselves. Just in case this looks like a good idea to you, your surge protector was not made for outdoor use. #DIYFail DIY AC repair is never a good idea. But if you're needing a quick fix, it's called DUCT tape for a reason. (Masking tape, smh!) Also, this DIY-er has taped the filter door shut, for extra #DIYFail points. The moral of the story? If you're going to DIY, make sure you know what you're doing. You may save money by doing it yourself, but you could end up with an even more expensive repair, or devaluing your home if you get it wrong.

Home Inspection Spotlight: DIY Fails

One of the things home inspectors run into a lot is homeowners who have attempted DIY repairs and renovations with limited success... or in

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