PineBreeze Inspections

5 Tasks Homeowners Can Do Between Yearly HVAC Inspections

by

In times of extreme temperatures, it is hard not to think about your HVAC unit. Summertime in Colorado can range in temperatures of over 90 degrees.

When things are going well with your air conditioning unit, you are grateful to walk into the house on those spicy summer days and feel a rush of frozen air meet your face. However, when things are not going so well with your unit, there is no escaping from the oppressive heat—no matter how many fans you plug in.

Unfortunately, most of us neglect maintenance on these vital devices until temperatures soar and wait times are long.

Yearly Maintenance Is Cheaper Than Repairs!

The best home care advice you can receive is that maintenance costs much less than repairs. Your HVAC unit is no different. Each year, before temperatures start to tick upward, consider investing in the maintenance of your machine.

Home maintenance projects may feel overwhelming, but you would be surprised at the difference you can make in the longevity of your home appliances, like your HVAC unit, by engaging in simple upkeep practices.

Why Schedule Yearly HVAC Service?

You may think your machine is doing fine, so why would you need yearly maintenance? You may be right! Your machine might be functioning. That is not to say that it is functioning to its most efficient capacity or is on the road to its most extended lifespan.

When you complete a yearly inspection with a service expert, you have the opportunity to prevent problems before they arise, increase the efficiency of your machine (which likely translates to lowered energy costs in your home), and, as an added bonus, to reduce your environmental impact because your machine is not having to work as hard to complete its job.

Tasks Homeowners Can Do to Increase the Efficiency of HVAC Systems

Step one homeowners should locate and replace air filters. The frequency of how often to replace air filters ranges depending on what’s going on inside and outside the home. If any of the bullet points listed below apply to you, you’ll want to change your air filters more often.

  • Quality of the air filter – the cheap ones are simply less effective; change those more frequently.
  • Frequency of use – the more the system runs, the quicker the filter’s life runs out.
  • Size of the household – more people means more traffic transporting dust and dirt.
  • Pets in the home – the frequency of new filters increases with each pet.
  • Smoking inside the home – experts say to change filters every 20 days.
  • Living in an area with poor air quality – the air outside the home determines the quality of air inside the house.
  • Living in a neighborhood with an active construction zone – those chemicals and particles will travel into your home.
  • Construction/remodeling inside the home.
  • Aged homes – older homes tend to be less efficient.
  • Old HVAC systems – older units may require changing filters more frequently and more than yearly checkups.
  • Living near dirt or gravel roads – traffic and wind will carry the dust near and into the home.
  • For persons with asthma, keeping the air cleaner means breathing easier.

Step two in HVAC maintenance is to vacuum up all the dust particles congregating in air returns and heat registers. Clear those airways!

Step three is to clean the outside condenser. One of the best ways to improve the efficiency of your entire HVAC system is to simply wash the condenser with a water hose. Mowing, leaf blowing, and even the weather can cause a crud on the outside of the unit. This restricts airflow and decreases the unit’s ability to perform at peak levels.

Step four may involve a trip to the attic (or anywhere else where ducts are exposed in the home). While the heat or air is turned on and blowing, NACHI  suggests using your sense of touch (even better, use an infrared camera) to determine if any of your precious heat or air is escaping through any rips or tears in your ductwork. If there are any problem areas, temporarily solve the issue with duct tape. But immediately, contact a professional who can remedy the loss of airflow.

Step five requires you to walk around the house and look at all your floor vents, removing anything that may have fallen in. Small children especially enjoy the challenge of finding objects they can fit through the slats. If you have kids, don’t be surprised if you find crayons, silverware, or that piece of mail you could have sworn you had just set down for a minute. Look also for any obstructions to your vents. Clothing items and curtains can often end up accidentally covering a vent, but if you’re not looking out for them, it can also be an easy mistake to cover your floor vents with furniture. It may be time to do a little rearranging to keep those airways unobstructed.

Do You Really Need a Sewer Line Inspection?

by

Most home buyers today wouldn’t consider closing their purchase without getting a general house inspection. That’s particularly so with older homes, but many elect to have new buildings examined by an independent third party. Inspections are excellent insurance for discovering existing and potential problems. Unfortunately, most home inspectors fail to explore the sewer lines, which can turn out to be a critical and costly mistake.

Home inspectors generally report on current home system conditions. They also estimate the life expectancy of major components. Types of home inspections include the overall framing or structure, roof, building envelope, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems. Inspection reports identify issues that often establish repair or replacement price adjustments during negotiations. However, while a home inspector may note a dripping faucet, they rarely catch the underlying cause of the problem.

Why Inspectors Overlook Sewer Systems

Inspectors might overlook the sewer system for two reasons. One is that the vast majority of a sewer system is underground. It’s out of sight and out of mind. The second reason is that most home inspectors don’t have the specialized equipment or knowledge necessary to do a proper sewer line inspection.

This isn’t a slam against house inspectors. Far from it. Many inspectors are extremely competent and have a vast amount of general building knowledge. It’s tough to be an overall expert when you consider just how many pieces there are in a home’s systems. Just the plumbing system alone is extensive, and good inspectors know what plumbing features to check before buying a home.

Unfortunately, some inspectors fail to consider the sewer lines as an extension of the plumbing system. That’s when problems begin to back up, so to speak. A serious plumbing backup could happen right after you move into your newly purchased home. Someone has to pay for it, and this is when the finger-pointing starts. However, it could have been totally prevented if only someone thought to have an inexpensive sewer line inspection done.

Sewer Repairs Can Be Extremely Expensive

You might wonder, “Do I need a sewer line inspection before buying a house?” The answer is yes. A sewer inspection should be a mandatory part of your house inspection checklist. Do not overlook the sewer line when considering what inspections to get when buying a house. In fact, getting a sewer inspection is one of the most important home inspection tips for first-time buyers. Sewer line inspections are cheap, but sewer repairs can be extremely expensive. Why spend the money on a repair when you could have avoided it with a simple inspection?

There’s no such thing as a typical cost for repairing your sewer lines. It can start at a few hundred dollars to snake out a blockage. Or, it could be tens of thousands of dollars to excavate your yard and replace the pipes. The repair bills depend on the sewer line condition, the problem’s location and the root cause.

No pun intended, but speaking of roots, tree roots are the primary cause of blocked sewer lines. Fortunately, roots are easy to find with a closed-circuit television inspection. Unfortunately, they can be very expensive to dig up and clear out. Having the sewer line scoped should be on your house-buying inspection checklist. In fact, you can’t afford not to inspect the sewer line before closing your house purchase deal.

Sewer Line Repair Options

This worst-case scenario is preventable. It’s hard to say how a court would view repair cost responsibility. There’s a “buyer-beware” and due diligence responsibility on you as a potential purchaser. And there’s no responsibility for a home seller to arrange for a sewer line inspection. Their only responsibility is to disclose potential or existing problems, but they may have had no clue about the trouble brewing in their yard.

But if a problem appears on the sewer line inspection report, you’re free to exercise your options. This depends on the severity of what your inspection turns up. You’ve paid for the inspection, so it’s your information to use. Let’s look at what options you now have.

  • Estimate repair costs: Not every blocked sewer line is a worst-case scenario. Your inspector might quickly isolate a potential blockage they can easily remove with internal action, rather than digging up the yard. You have time to weigh your options, rather than making a knee-jerk reaction.
  • Take time to assess: Time is your friend when negotiating a house purchase. Look at the big picture, and assess how extensive the problems might be. Take a step back, calmly plan your next step, and don’t get caught unaware.
  • Determine responsibility: Having a sewer line inspection lets you determine responsibility for fixing problems. Your inspector will determine the line’s overall condition, and whether potential repairs fall within the home’s property line or in the civic jurisdiction. This is time to get the authorities involved before the deal goes further.
  • Negotiate repair costs: You have an option to negotiate repair costs with your seller. It’s important to bring parties together and discuss the scope of repairs and who will incur costs. Depending on the situation, your inspection might find a looming threat, but not outright danger. Circumstances will determine if you’re willing to move forward, or if you can now negotiate repair costs as part of your purchase deal.
  • Abandon your deal: If your sewer pipe inspection finds a severe problem, you have the option to abandon your deal and walk away. This might be a tough decision when everything else about the property appears perfect. But it’s a matter of future costs, and you simply can’t afford to take the risk.

4 Ways To Reduce Lead In Your Water

by

Lead poisoning is typically associated with lead-based paint, but it can also be found in numerous unexpected places like drinking water. Ever since the Flint water crisis made headlines in 2014, more and more people have become aware of the risks of drinking lead-contaminated water.

The effects of lead poisoning are dangerous and harmful, especially in young children. People may experience nausea, pregnancy complications, developmental delays, and more. No one wants to deal with the symptoms of lead poisoning, so what can you do to reduce your risk of being exposed to lead in drinking water? Read on to learn how lead can contaminate water, what you can do to reduce lead levels, and steps to take if you get infected.

How Does Lead Get Into Drinking Water?

Nowadays, lead in drinking water is far less common than it was a hundred years ago. Thanks to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Safe Drinking Water Act, lead exposures have decreased drastically.

But even still, lead can appear in drinking water if water travels through lead service lines that connect a home to the main water line. Even homes without lead service lines may have other items soldered with lead, such as:

  • Brass or chrome-plated brass faucets
  • Galvanized iron pipes
  • Lead-lined water tanks

Lead can infiltrate drinking water when a particular chemical reaction happens in plumbing materials containing lead. This reaction is known as corrosion, which dissolves or wears away metal from pipes and fixtures. Water with high acidity or low mineral content can cause more severe corrosion. How much lead ultimately enters the water is based on:

  • Acidity or alkalinity of the water
  • Types and amounts of minerals in the water
  • Amount of lead the water comes in contact with
  • Level of wear on the pipes
  • Water temperature
  • Length of time the water stays in pipes
  • Presence of protective scales or coatings in the pipes

Steps You Can Take to Reduce Lead in Water

No safe blood level of lead has been identified for young children, meaning all lead exposures are considered dangerous. Lead is a toxic metal that can accumulate in the body over time. Unfortunately, you cannot see, smell, or taste lead in drinking water. Since lead is not noticeable to the naked eye, you need to test for the presence of lead if you have any suspicion of it, such as living in a house built before 1978.

Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce lead levels in your drinking water. Begin by having your water tested by a professional, and then take the necessary steps afterward.

Get Your Water Tested

After moving into a new house or apartment and identifying that you have a suspicion of lead, you must contact your water company to determine if the pipe that connects your home to the main water line is made from lead. Your water company will also be able to provide information about the lead levels in your drinking water.

Next, call your local health department to schedule a water test. Lead water testing typically costs between $20 and $100, but some cities and states offer free or reduced-cost programs. An official water test will confirm the lead levels in your water. When collecting samples for testing, make sure to avoid turning on the water in your home for at least six hours before sampling.

Let Your Water Run

Certain cities have local ordinances about flushing tap water if it hasn’t been turned on for several hours. If it is confirmed that you have lead present in your water, be sure to flush your home’s pipes before drinking any water. You can flush your pipes by:

  • Letting the tap water run
  • Taking a shower
  • Doing laundry
  • Running the dishwasher or handwashing dishes

The amount of time to run the water will depend on specific circumstances, such as the length of the lead service line in your home. Your water utility company will recommend how long to run water before it’s safe to drink.

Use a Certified Filter

Another way you can reduce lead in water is to use a filter that is certified to remove lead. Look for a filter that has an NSF/ANSI standard 53 for lead removal. When using these filters, it is essential to properly install and replace the cartridge when needed. If you use a cartridge after it has expired, it will be significantly less effective at removing lead. Never pour hot water through a filter.

Only Use Cold Water

Lead levels can be reduced in drinking water by only using cold water for drinking, cooking, and mixing baby formula. While it is commonly thought that hot water is cleaner, that anecdote does not apply to lead. Boiling water does not remove lead from water. Warm and hot water is more likely to contain elevated levels of lead. It is worth mentioning that showering in lead-contaminated water does not cause lead poisoning. The only way lead can cause poisoning through water is by ingesting it.

Water Inspections in Colorado

Never take a chance on water purity or the condition of your well in Colorado or any other state for that matter.  Water is the primary source for all living things and clean water is essential for humans to remain in good health.  In rural areas, we rely on our wells to produce clean and pure water and in Colorado, especially in the mountainous areas, well water is what we use 99% of the time. PineBreeze Inspections will protect your family by making sure not only your water is safe, but the systems supporting your clean water are fully functional and efficient.  When we are finished with your well and water inspection, you can hydrate with confidence!

Commercial Property Inspections: What You Need to Know

by

Buying a commercial building is a big investment. Before a purchase is made, a Portfolio Manager may order a building inspection and report, which provides the information needed to make an informed decision on the property.

The right commercial building inspection will highlight the true condition of a property and the costs required to repair it. But what, exactly, will a commercial building inspector look for during an inspection? Keep reading to discover building inspection basics and four things an inspector will be sure to check.

The Basics of Commercial Building Inspections

From the roof to the foundation, a commercial building inspector will check a building’s health in its entirety. But before we jump into the building inspection process, let’s take a look at a few basics first.

What Is A Commercial Building?

A commercial building is a building or structure located on a parcel of commercial real estate. These buildings are intended to generate profit, either from capital gain or rental income. Commercial buildings are usually divided into five categories: Office Buildings, Retail/Restaurant, Multifamily Dwellings, Land, and Miscellaneous.

Some examples of commercial buildings and properties include:

  • Cafes
  • Condominiums
  • Convenience Stores
  • Factories
  • Hotels and Lodging
  • Malls
  • Manufacturing Facilities
  • Medical Office Suites
  • Mixed-use Buildings
  • Multifamily Housing
  • Office Buildings
  • Residential Units (for-profit)
  • Restaurants
  • Shopping Centers
  • Sports Facilities
  • Storage Facilities
  • Strip Malls
  • Warehouses

Who Performs A Commercial Building Inspection?

Asset managers have several options when it comes to hiring a commercial building inspector. The first option is to hire an engineer or architect. These individuals possess varied backgrounds in the building trades, facilities management, maintenance and similar subjects. However, it is important to note that engineers and architects may charge premium fees for their services and specialized knowledge.

A second option is to hire a commercial building inspector. Many companies specialize in both residential and commercial inspections, but be careful. The nature of a commercial inspection is unlike a residential inspection. It’s a good idea to hire a company that not only specializes in commercial inspections but also understands that commercial properties are a company asset, business expense and income generator.

What Is The Goal Of A Commercial Building Inspection?

Commercial real estate acquisitions revolve around return on investment (ROI) and residual value. Portfolio managers want to know two things: “How much will this cost?” and “How much will I make on this investment?” 

This is where an inspection comes in handy. An inspection will reveal the life spans of five major systems within the building, including the following:

  • Roofing
  • Structural Integrity
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Heating, Ventilation and Cooling (HVAC)

Real estate management teams want to know if the roof or HVAC system will need to be replaced in the coming years, or if electrical elements will need to be upgraded due to a change in building use. A building audit or inspection will provide insight on these questions. The resulting report will ultimately advise the portfolio company whether or not buying the property is worth the investment.

4 Things a Commercial Building Inspector Will Check

Purchasing commercial property is not only expensive; it also requires a great deal of consideration and research before a purchasing decision can be made. Investors, insurance lenders, portfolio lenders and commercial mortgage-backed security (CMBS) lenders routinely order property condition assessments (PCAs) in order to learn more about a property or before entering into a purchase agreement.

Here are four things a commercial inspector will focus on during his or her inspection.

The Building’s Five Major Systems

Commercial buildings generally have five major systems: Electrical, Mechanical, Heating, Plumbing, and Air Conditioning/Ventilation. Inspectors will check that these systems are in good working condition. If a system is not up to par, the inspector will estimate the cost of repair (or replacement) in his or her report. Fire safety systems, building alarms, and sprinkler systems will also be checked during the inspection.

The Building’s Exterior

A building’s exterior doesn’t just include its outer walls; it also includes parking lots or structures, landscaping, and roofing. The inspector will determine whether the building is structurally sound and highlight any necessary repair costs. Inspectors may rely on insight from roofing experts, construction contractors, or building code inspectors to fully inspect the exterior health of a building.

The Building’s Interior

This portion of the inspection serves two purposes: to check that interior spaces meet local building codes, and to check for safety-related risks and hazards. The inspector will observe the building’s walls, floors, bathrooms, offices, kitchen spaces, and similar areas. This portion of the inspection will illuminate any need for interior renovations (especially if anything within the building is not up to code).

The Building’s Documentation

Commercial building inspectors review many documents during the inspection process. They may review appraisals, building plans, citations, certificates of occupancy, construction permits, evacuation plans, environmental studies, fire safety system records, floor plans, maintenance records, and surveys. These records will reveal the true cost of owning the building and help the investor determine the value of the property.

The Dangers of Mold

by

Mold, no one wants to find in their home. Whether in a basement, under a sink, or on the wall, mold can appear almost anywhere. At the time of exposure, you may not feel any effects of mold but as time goes by you may start to feel like something isn’t right.

The harmful effects of exposure to mold, especially toxic mold, can show up years later after you’ve remedied the issue or even moved to a new location. Keep reading to learn more about the types of harmful mold, symptoms to look for, and what you can do to prevent it.

Types of Harmful Mold

The types of mold are numerous, but generally, harmful mold falls into three types:

Allergenic Mold

This common type of mold is usually the least harmful to people, especially when exposure is limited. The Centers for Disease Control notes that limited exposure to damp and moldy environments can lead to symptoms like:

  • Stuffy Nose
  • Wheezing
  • Sore Throat
  • Red or Itchy Eyes
  • Irritated Skin

Pathogenic Mold

While allergenic mold will usually most strongly affect those with allergies and other health concerns, pathogenic mold can cause infections in people who have weakened immune systems. The most common types of pathogenic mold include:

  • Aspergillus: Usually found throughout the environment including in soil, plant matter, and household dust, Aspergillus fumigatus can be airborne too and cause symptoms like fever, weakness, and coughing up bloody or brown mucus.
  • Cryptococcus neoformans: Found in environments worldwide, C. neoformans is usually inhaled and can stay in the body where it causes an infection later. Most cases of fungal meningitis are linked to Cryptococcus neoformans.
  • Histoplasma capsulatum: Typically found in soil, outbreaks of Histoplasma capsulatum are usually caused by soil disturbances like digging during large-scale construction projects. Inhaled H. capsulatum spores can cause pneumonia.

Toxigenic Mold

Toxic mold, or black mold, isn’t one specific type of mold. Many molds are black, so you can’t tell what type of mold you’re dealing with just by looking at it. Medical News Today states that black mold can cause severe health problems because they release mycotoxins that enter your body leading to what is essentially mold poisoning.

Long-Term Effects of Mold Exposure

While exposure to mold, particularly toxic mold may only cause mild allergy symptoms, if any at all, in the short term, the effects of mold exposure may be felt years later.

Even after your mold issue has been remedied or you’ve moved to a new home, long-term effects of mold can include:

Memory Loss

Long-term exposure to mold can cause issues with concentration, judgment, and short-term memory in particular.

Poor Mental Health

The physical issues and stresses caused by dealing with mold exposure can cause anxiety, confusion, mood swings, and depression.

Constant Fatigue

Exposure to mold causes your body to work harder to fight illnesses than it normally would have to. This can lead individuals, especially those with pre-existing conditions like allergy and asthma feeling tired.

Lung Issues

Mold particularly attacks the lungs and the pulmonary system in general. Even years after exposure to mold, it is possible to notice a reduction in lung function.

How to Remove Mold From Your Home

If you find the presence of mold in your home, there are several steps you can take to help remove it:

Fix Water Leaks

Whether it’s from a leaky faucet or a broken pipe, mold can start growing in 24 – 48 hours. Reach out to an HVAC professional or plumber to help you eliminate any water leaks.

Exhaust Fans

Use exhaust fans when you’re cooking or washing dishes. When taking a shower, be sure to always use your bathroom fan.

Clean Visible Mold

Do you see mold growing on a wall or other surface? Use a sponge and soap to remove mold wherever you find it.

Get Professional Help

When mold damage is widespread or if it’s just too much for you to handle, it’s time to call in the pros. Look for a mold remediation professional in your area that has the tools needed for large-scale cleaning.

How to Prevent Mold Growth

At the end of the day, the best way to prevent the growth of mold is to control the moisture in your home. There are several tools you can use:

Dehumidify

Use a dehumidifier to reduce your indoor humidity. Try to keep your humidity level to around 40% relative humidity for optimal conditions.

Use An Air Purifier

Take steps to reduce the risk of inhaling mold spores and other airborne irritants. Using a HEPA air purifier is a great way to eliminate microscopic particles from your indoor air.

Proper Ventilation

If you’ve woken up in the morning to notice condensation on your windows, your home may not be properly ventilated. Consider installing a ventilation fan to improve the airflow in your home and limit the creation of moisture.

What Is Included In a Well Inspection?

by

Using a well as your primary source of water comes with many perks. No more water bills. Refreshing, clean, and mineral-rich water that tastes great. You might not even think about well inspections.

However, you’ll want to test the well water first to ensure you can safely take advantage of all the benefits it offers. So, before you decide to purchase a home with a private well, here’s everything you need to know about well inspections and making sure your water is safe to use.

During the inspection, the licensed professional will also be looking to see if the well meets state regulations and criteria. Each state’s criteria vary, but generally, the inspector will ensure the well is in a proper location on the property and that there is no damage to the construction or parts of the well.

When Do You Need A Well Inspection?

You’ll likely only have to worry about a well inspection if you’re purchasing a home in a more rural area. Many rural homes aren’t connected to public water services. This means should anything go wrong, you won’t receive help from the city. You’re on your own for any repairs or added filtration systems.

Getting a well inspection before you purchase a home can save you a lot of time, energy, and money. For instance, if you discover a well needs expensive repairs or the water isn’t safe to drink or use, you may want to reconsider your purchase. Or you could negotiate a lower deal with the seller. Either way, you want to know you’re living in a home where the water is safe to consume.

If you purchase a home with a well, a well inspection won’t be a one-time thing. Ideally, your well should be inspected every year to ensure your water is safe, and the well remains working properly.

Before you buy land with a well, you may also benefit from doing a bit of research into the groundwater in your area. Search for known water issues through the EPA, talk to neighbors about any problems, and ask your real estate agent about any known water concerns in the area.

What Does A Well Inspection Include?

A well inspection includes several tests. However, the main two tests include testing for water safety and for water quantity.

Water Purity

Foremost, an inspection tests for water safety and purity. The inspector takes a water sample from the tap in your home and then sends it to a lab for testing. Once tested, you’ll receive a report detailing what is in your water and what the passing limit is for each element found.

The water inspection usually tests for PH levels, hardness, alkalinity, and turbidity, which essentially means the cloudiness or clarity of the water. The lab results will also reveal the minerals present in your water. Typically, your water is tested for iron, calcium, manganese, copper, fluoride, and chloride.

For many, a big draw of owning a well is for the natural minerals. Water high in minerals contains health and nutrient benefits. Plus, minerals tend to make the water taste better too.

Along with mineral testing, the inspection also tests for coliform bacteria and volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. You especially don’t want to find VOCs in your water as they pose a huge health hazard. VOCs examples include human-made chemicals, gasoline compounds like MtBE and benzene, and even chloroform. You don’t want these in your water.

The inspector should also test your well for radon. In many areas, radon isn’t automatically included in the list of elements tested so you’ll want to be sure to specifically request for a radon test.

Water Quantity

Your water inspection will also test for water quantity. You don’t want to be left in the shower with a head full of shampoo and no water. You’ll want to ensure your well is able to provide enough water for the needs of your family. And if you have a larger household, your well may need upgrades to fulfill your water needs.

To test water quantity, the inspector measures the dimensions and depth of the well and conducts a flow rate test. The flow indicates the amount of water coming from your well, and the flow rate measures the number of gallons per minute.

On average, a home needs 100 to 120 gallons per person per day. The flow rate should be around 6 to 12 gallons per minute. This ensures you have accurate water pressure and enough water to meet basic needs such as bathing, cooking, and washing.

During the inspection, the inspector will also check your pressure tank. The inspector will look for any rusting, leaking, or other mechanical defects that could result in low water pressure or contamination.

Water & Well Testing Inspections in Colorado

Never take a chance on water purity or the condition of your well in Colorado or any other state for that matter.  Water is the primary source for all living things and clean water is essential for humans to remain in good health.  In rural areas, we rely on our wells to produce clean and pure water and in Colorado, especially the mountainous areas, well water is what we use 99% of the time.  PineBreeze Inspections will protect your family by making sure not only your water is safe, but the systems supporting your clean water are fully functional and efficient.  When we are finished with your well and water inspection, you can hydrate with confidence!

Your Summer Home Checklist

by

Summer is here, and the Farmer’s Almanac says it’s going to be an extra hot one. Is your home ready to take on the heat of summer?

Here in Colorado, summers are brutal. Make sure your home is in pristine shape with our one-stop summer home checklist.

Check Your Air Conditioner

There’s nothing worse than your air conditioner failing when temps are in the high 90s. That’s why it’s vital to have it checked or inspected in the spring to get it ready for those extra hot days.

Also important? Make sure your system has a clean filter. Dirty filters make your air conditioner work harder, which costs you more money. You should change these filters every 2-4 months.

If you weren’t using it during the winter, turn your air on to see how it’s running. Make sure you hear it click on and see the thermostat go down. You may want to call a pro for an annual checkup just to make sure everything is in proper working order. They may be able to fix a small issue before it becomes a big one.

Prepare Your Summer Tools

You and your family might be outdoors a lot this season. You need to keep your lawn nice, which means getting your lawn mower and edger ready. It’s time to give your tools a spring tune-up.

Clean all the equipment and change the gas. Replace any spark plugs and get new oil and air filters. Either sharpen your mower blade yourself or take it to a mower repair shop. If your mower and edger are electric, inspect the cords for frays or cuts, and turn them on to be sure they work.

Wipe down and lubricate any hand tools like pruners, shears, hoes, shovels, and rakes. Make sure they are dry before you put them away to avoid rusting.

Clean Your Grill

Nothing says “summer” like burgers and hot dogs on the grill. Give your favorite outdoor appliance some love by getting it cleaned up and ready for all of those barbecues.

If you have a charcoal grill, empty it out and wipe off any residue. Scrub the inside and outside with hot, soapy water and a scrub brush. Make sure your grill is completely dry before using it.

For gas grills, turn the heat up high and close the lid. Let the grill cook off any dirt for about 30 minutes. Then let the grill cool down and use a grill brush to scrape off any excess debris. Lastly, clean the drip trays and wipe down the outside of the grill.

If you use a gas grill, make sure you have a new propane tank to make sure you don’t run out while in the midst of grilling. You should also make sure you have enough charcoal coals for your charcoal grill.

Wash Your Porch

Fallen leaves, dirt, debris, and pollen have done a number on your porch. Start with a good sweep, then wash it down with cleaner. You can remove any stubborn dirt by scrubbing with warm water and mild soap.

This is also the perfect time to refresh your home’s curb appeal with some seasonal flowers.

Check Your Deck

Make sure your boards are sturdy and in good condition. Replace any rotted boards and hammer down loose nails.

If there’s one thing you can count on, it’s that summer will bring lots of thunderstorms. Check that your deck is water-ready by pouring some water on it. If the water beads up, the deck should be good for the year. If the water disappears into the wood, you’ll need to reseal the deck to prevent any water damage.

Inspect Your Home’s Exterior and Roof

Take a quick look at your roof—including the flashing, shingles, and chimney—to check for any damage. If you don’t want to scramble around on the roof, a trustworthy home inspector should be able to look it over for you.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve seen this comprehensive summer home checklist, it’s time to get your home ready for the summer heat.

If you want a professional to inspect your home or you are thinking about selling, contact Pine Breeze Inspections today to schedule an appointment and get your home in top shape.

How Long Do Roofs Last?

by

Whether you’re buying a new home or you’re planning on staying put in your current house, you probably have an idea of the condition of your roof. But, it can be hard for homeowners to gauge exactly when they should get a roof replacement.

This article discusses 4 different types of roofs, how long each roof type lasts, and what signs to look out for when your roof needs to be replaced.

How Long Does A Roof Last?

One of the key factors that determine if you need a new roof is its age. Now, we all know roofs don’t last forever, but homeowners may be asking themselves: how long does a roof last?

Generally, you can expect your roof to last about 30 years. But, the actual lifespan of your roof depends on a number of things, including the type of roofing materials that were used as well as the environment.

What Factors Impact How Long Your Roof Lasts?

  • Quality of the installation workmanship – A poor quality installation will shorten your roof’s lifespan.
  • Environmental conditions – Exposure to high winds, extreme temperatures, and falling debris can decrease how long your roof lasts.
  • The quality of materials used – Cheaper materials won’t cost as much upfront but will have to be replaced more often than other expensive roofing materials.
  • The type of roofing material used – Each roofing material has different durability, making them last longer or shorter in different conditions.

While there are several factors that impact how long your roof lasts, your roof’s lifespan most heavily depends on the materials used. Let’s take a closer look at the various roof types and how long each of them lasts.

Different Roof Types and How Long They Last

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the United States because they are affordable, durable, and include warranties of up to 25 years. Made of fiberglass and asphalt sealant, asphalt shingles can effectively protect your roof structure from snow, wind, rain, and harsh UV rays.

Most asphalt shingle roofs will last between 15 and 30 years. However, this can vary based on the climate and weather conditions of where you live. For example, asphalt shingles won’t last as long in Colorado, because the dramatic temperature changes will cause the shingles to crack.

Metal Roofing

A metal roof can last anywhere between 40 and 70 years with warranties from 20 years to a lifetime, depending on the type of metal and the design of the roof. Metal roofs made of premium metals like copper and zinc can sometimes last for over 100 years!

Signs you need a metal roof replacement: Widespread rust, discoloration, roof leak damage, water staining in the attic, and/or mold.

Wood Shakes And Shingles

Usually, a wooden shingle roof lasts for about 30 years with warranties that run up to 30 years. In order for wood shingles and shake roofs to last, however, you need to perform regular maintenance. Wooden roof upkeep includes yearly cleanings, as well as repainting or staining every 5 years.

The type of wood that you use will also determine how long the roof will last. Cedar shakes, for example, last longer than other types of wooden shingles because cedar is rot and insect-resistant. Cedar shakes are also able to withstand winds up to 245 miles per hour, which makes them a popular type of roofing material for coastal homes.

Signs you need a wooden roof replacement: Splitting shingles, rotting shingles, pest damage, mold, and/or algae growth.

Clay Tile Roof

Clay tile roofs are extremely durable and can last anywhere between 50 to 100 years, and manufacturers offer warranties anywhere from 30 years to a lifetime! The life expectancy of clay tile roofs is so long because tiles are weather, rot, and fire-resistant.

To ensure that your clay tile roof lasts as long as possible, it’s important to properly clean your roof. If a clay tile roof isn’t regularly cleaned, algae, moss, and mold can accumulate. Moss is the most dangerous, as its roots can penetrate the tiles, ultimately causing roof leaks.

Clay tile roofs won’t last as long in colder climates, as constant freezing and thawing can easily damage the tiles. However, you can have your clay tiles sealed to help prevent cold weather impacts.

Signs you need a clay tile roof replacement: Cracked tiles, chipped tiles, pieces of tile in gutters, roof leaks, and/or water staining in the attic.

Schedule Your Roof Inspection In or Around Colorado Springs and BEYOND!

A roof inspection is an absolute must for both residential and commercial buildings. Please contact us today to schedule your inspection. We will get back to you right away.

8 Things To Protect Your Home Against Mold

by

With summer vacations well on their way, we’d like to, as the professional mold inspectors in Colorado Springs, shed some light on the dos and don’ts when leaving your house for an extended vacation.

We’ve compiled a list of the top 8 things to do at home before going on vacation. By doing the below, you’ll have the peace of mind in knowing your abode should remain in tip-top shape.

Watch Out for Moisture

Generally speaking, mold needs anywhere between 24 and 48 hours of moisture to grow. Therefore, you need to make sure that you’ve eliminated any sources of moisture before leaving your home. From running an exhaust fan to turning on fans, there are many things you can do to reduce moisture before you go.

Water Leaks Are Dangerous

One of the main causes of mold infestations is water leaks. Why? Because they increase your home’s moisture and humidity, which creates an ideal environment for mold to grow. As a result, you need to inspect your home and watch out for things such as leaking roofs, walls, water pipes, taps, or showers. And, if you find any leaks, make sure to call a contractor as soon as possible to fix them before leaving on your vacation.

Prevent Condensation

Condensation forms on cold surfaces when water vapors in the air cool down and become liquid. You’ll often notice this on concrete walls, metal pipes, windows, and water tanks. But since condensation can increase the moisture in your home, you’ll need to get rid of it. To do that, you need to keep the temperature throughout your house warmer. You can also insulate your pipes or walls, further reducing condensation.

Reduce Humidity

Most species of mold can grow in the presence of humidity if it stays high enough. Actually, any humidity higher than 55% can promote the growth of mold and may lead to infestations. As such, it is essential that you reduce humidity by ventilating the rooms where moisture and steam tend to build up, such as your bathroom and kitchen. You can also rely on air dehumidifiers if you are having trouble controlling your home’s humidity.

Minimize Mold Spores

Mold spores are all around us, as they float in the air with little to no way to get rid of them permanently. However, if the concentration of mold spores inside your home reaches a higher level, it may cause health issues. That’s why you’ll have to constantly vacuum your home, preferably using HEPA vacuum cleaners. Additionally, you can install HEPA air filters to help remove mold spores from the air.

Remove Mold Food Sources

Mold grows and feeds on organic substances like cotton, wood, carpets, paper, paint, and leather. As a result, you need to clean all surfaces in your home to remove any potential food source for mold. And, just like previously mentioned, vacuuming with a HEPA filtered vacuum is the best way to do that.  Don’t forget to take out the trash before you go.  Food in the trash will mold.

Take Care of Wet Laundry

After washing your clothes, you should immediately dry them and avoid letting them sit in a wet pile for a long time. Why? Because they can increase your home’s humidity and promote the growth of mold. And while drying them outside on a clothesline is the ideal situation, you can also dry them inside as long as you remove the humid air afterward. Allow wet towels to dry before throwing them in the laundry basket.

Sunlight Is Essential

Mold tends to prefer dark spaces when growing indoors. Therefore, allowing sunlight into your home will reduce the chances of mold infestations and also help control your home’s humidity levels. So make sure to open the curtains during the day to let natural light in.

Suspect Mold In Your Home?

Protect yourself and your family and contact us today if you have any questions about a mold inspection for your property or home. We proudly offer service to clients in Colorado Springs.

Why a Sewer Scope Inspection is Essential for Homebuyers

by

A standard home inspection provides valuable insights into the current condition of a home – but it can’t always tell the whole story. If you’re planning on buying a home, especially one built over 20 years ago, you should consider investing in a sewer scope inspection. A sewer scope inspection will reveal any issues in a home’s sewage system – problems that could cost you thousands if left untreated. From warning signs to maintenance tips, this article will break down everything you need to know about a sewer inspection. Let’s get started.

What Is A Sewer Scope Inspection?

A sewer scope inspection gives you an inside look into a home’s sewer lines. A professional home or sewer inspector will perform the inspection. They start by inserting a plumbing camera attached to a long, flexible cable into the home’s drainpipe. The scoping camera streams video to a monitor allowing the inspector to look for any blockages, broken pipes, or other serious problems with the sewage system.

Why Is A Sewer Inspection Important?

As with any other home inspection, a sewer scope inspection allows you to get a better idea of a house’s overall condition. Without a sewer inspection, you may be buying a home with a faulty sewer system. This can lead to costly and even dangerous problems for the house and the people living inside. A broken or damaged sewer system can cause a home to have:

Structural Risk

• Flooding in the home or backyard

• Shifting or cracking in the home’s foundation

• Mold growth

Health Risk

• Rodents, flies, roaches, or parasites can enter damaged pipes and invade the home

• Mold spores

• Harmful gasses like carbon dioxide, methane, chlorine, nitrous oxide, hydrogen sulfide, and sulfur dioxide can seep into the house

• Water from a broken sewage pipe can contain bacteria like E-coli, typhoid fever, salmonella, and cholera, and viruses like hepatitis A

Expensive Repairs

The cost of an inspection is negligible compared to the cost to repair a broken sewer line. Simply repairing a broken sewer pipe can cost up to $300 per foot, and the average cost of replacing sewer drains can range from $2,500 to $30,000 or more. If the damage is severe enough to cause flooding, foundation issues, or mold growth, then you could be paying thousands of dollars in repairs.

Don’t pass on a sewer inspection just because the home’s plumbing is currently working fine. Everything above ground may be perfect, but you may have a disaster waiting under your home. A sewer scope is the easiest, least expensive way to determine how your sewer lines will perform once you move in. Don’t let a sewer backup be your first warning that something is wrong.

Lack Of Access To Plumbing

Functional plumbing is essential to a household. If a sewage line backs up or breaks, it’ll likely affect the home’s entire plumbing system. This means that showers and sinks won’t drain, and toilets won’t be functional. When you first move into a home, the last thing you want is to move out for a few days because your house’s plumbing is no longer functional.

Russell Joe from Quality Sewer & Drain wants to remind homebuyers that, “if you’re buying a home and don’t have your sewer line inspected beforehand to see its condition, you can be putting yourself at risk for a sewage backup or emergency repairs that could have been spotted ahead of time. As a homeowner, you should know the condition of your sewer.”

It’s better to be prepared and know ahead of time so you won’t be caught paying for the problems that may arise.

What To Expect During A Sewer Camera Inspection

A sewer inspection should take no more than an hour from start to finish. The sewer camera inspection itself should only take about 5-10 minutes. The sewer inspector will first flush running water through the lines to clear any small debris and lubricate the pipes to keep the plumbing camera from catching on anything. The inspector will then locate your home’s sewer access point, insert the camera, and begin the inspection. Once the process is complete, the inspector will follow up with their findings and talk about the next steps if necessary.

Sewer Inspection Services

At Pine Breeze Inspections, our goal is to solve your drain issues by diagnosing, resolving, and repairing them in a timely manner. Most importantly, we want to ensure these issues don’t happen again. Contact us today for more information on how to schedule your sewer scope inspection!