PineBreeze Inspections

Would Your Colorado Springs Home Pass an Electrical Inspection?

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If you live in an older home or have recently had your home renovated, you may be wondering if your house would pass an electrical inspection. Passing an electrical inspection is crucial to ensuring the safety of your household and the protection of your home, appliances, and electronics.

At Pine Breeze Inspections, we understand the importance of electrical safety and provide electrical inspections for homeowners across the Colorado Springs area. In this guide, we discuss problems we frequently come across during our safety inspections and what you need to consider if you’re wondering if your home would pass an electrical inspection.

Old or Damaged Electrical Panels Are Commonly Noted in Electrical Inspection

Outdated electrical panels that are at least 20 years old are a common problem that our expert electricians come across during inspections. These outdated electrical panels present safety hazards and need to be replaced. Some old brands of electrical panels that are no longer considered safe include Federal Pacific, Zinsco, and Sylvania.

Signs of outdated or damaged electrical panels include rust or corrosion, broken parts, breaker boxes with fuses, and loose terminations. If an electrical panel is not deemed safe or able to handle the home’s electrical load it will not pass inspection. We always recommend upgrading electrical panels to modern standards of safety and functionality. Doing so will help the electrical system handle a modern electrical load and be more efficient.

Old Wiring

Another problem we often come across during safety inspections is outdated wiring. This is particularly common for homes wired in the 1960s or earlier as many updates occurred to national home electrical standards in the US in the 1970s and 1980s.

Old wiring can present several problems for the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system. Some old wiring is not able to handle the modern electrical demand of most homes, which can lead to short-circuiting and dangerous electrical occurrences such as an electrical fire.

Some homes built in the 1950s or earlier have knob-and-tube wiring that can become dangerous if the insulation covering the wire has worn away. This two-wire system also does not contain a ground system, a safety feature used in modern wiring systems.

When old wiring presents safety hazards or can not handle a modern home’s electrical load it will not pass a safety inspection. When we find old wiring in the home, we recommend replacement with a modern wiring system, especially if additional signs of electrical overload are seen such as flickering lights or circuit breaker tripping.

GFCI and AFCI Circuit Protection

GFCI circuit protection, or ground fault circuit interrupter circuit protection, is required by the National Electric Code in several areas of the home such as bathrooms, garages, below-grade areas, kitchens, outdoor areas, and any area within six feet of a sink or water source. This requirement is in place to protect from severe and fatal shocks, particularly in areas that are exposed to or near water sources.

AFCI circuit protection, or arc-fault circuit interrupter circuit protection, is required by the National Electric Code in all areas of the home where 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere branch circuits supplying outlets or devices are installed. AFCIs protect from injury or death caused by dangerous arcing in electrical wires, which can lead to a fire. The AFCIs detect this arcing and shut down the electrical system before a fire can occur.

Schedule A Safety Electrical Inspection with the Pros at Pine Breeze Inspections

At Pine Breeze Inspection, we offer safety inspections for our Colorado Springs area customers to help ensure the safety and efficiency of their home electrical system. If you live in the Colorado Springs area and aren’t sure if your home would pass an electrical inspection, then make sure to call us today to schedule a safety inspection with a qualified, licensed electrician.

How To Choose a Log Cabin Inspector

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A home inspection will inform you, as the potential buyer, of the log cabin’s current condition and assure you that it is ready to occupy.

Your log home is a major investment and whether you plan to live there forever or move on in a few years, you certainly don’t want any unexpected problems cropping up to surprise you down the road. As a log cabin buyer, you need to exercise extra due diligence and that’s why choosing a log cabin inspector makes sense. You can get a quick idea of the overall condition of the cabin on your own with our short inspection checklist or hire a professional to conduct a comprehensive inspection.

What’s The Difference Between A Home Inspector And A Building Inspector?

A home inspector is a private, certified individual who the potential buyer hires to watch out for the buyer’s interests while he conducts an independent home inspection.

A building inspector works for the local building code agency, usually the city or county, and inspects the house during the construction process. Building inspectors ensure that the log home is built according to local building codes.

Typical inspections for a building inspector include:

  • Footers and Foundation
  • Sill Attachment and Foundation Waterproofing
  • Framing
  • Rough Electrical
  • Rough HVAC
  • Rough Plumbing
  • Insulation
  • Gas Piping
  • Final Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC
  • Issuance of Certificate of Occupancy

What Does An Inspection Involve?

A new cabin inspection is a visual, operational check of all the different components of a home. It is non-invasive, meaning that the inspector will not drill into walls, remove structures or damage the property in order to perform the home inspection.

Checklist

What is included on the typical cabin inspection checklist?

The following list details many of the systems that are included:

  • Structural — foundations, bearing walls, floor systems, etc.
  • Electrical Systems — wiring, switches, receptacles, service panel, etc.
  • HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) — cooling, heating, and air handling equipment, distribution systems, and controls.
  • Plumbing Systems — fixtures & faucets, piping, water heating system, etc.
  • Insulation — attic and exterior insulation.
  • Roofing — roof coverings and flashing.
  • Interior — wall partitions, interior doors, windows, ceilings, floors, etc.
  • Exterior — windows, doors, siding, decks, garages, drainage, etc.

A comprehensive report is provided following the visit, sometimes including recommendations for further evaluation by specialized inspectors, such as structural engineers, radon inspectors or mold mitigation specialists.

Red Flags

What are the major problems that might raise a red flag?

The following issues are ones you want to address quickly or that might even lead you to back out of the deal.

  • Water damage — Extensive water damage can lead to rotted wood and the growth of mold and mildew in your log cabin.
  • Radon — Radon is an odorless gas that can cause cancer.
  • Mold — Toxic mold can cause serious health issues and is becoming a bigger problem.
  • Termites and carpenter bees — Insects can attack your wood logs and cause serious damage over time.
  • Foundation or structural problems — Foundation or structural problems can add up to big bucks for repairs on your log home.
  • Undersized electrical system — Today’s log homes use more and more power to supply hot tubs, hairdryers, home offices, and kitchen appliances. Upgrading cabin wiring can be expensive.

How to Choose a Log Cabin Inspector

The best way to choose a log cabin inspector is to get referrals from family and friends who have used one and to ask them who they’ve had a good experience with. You should also ensure that your cabin inspector has:

  • Licensing or Certification Requirements: These vary from state to state but check for their license number on their cards or website.
  • Membership in a Professional Organization: There are several national home inspector organizations such as:
    • The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI)
    • Independent Home Inspectors of North America (IHINA)
    • American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
    • National Association of Home Inspectors, Inc. (NAHI)
  • No Conflict of Interest: Don’t use an inspector who may stand to gain from the sale or cancellation of the sale of the log home. Be careful of who your inspector recommends for damage repairs. Use your professional home inspection to make your dream of log home living come true. If nothing else, your log cabin inspection will alert you to various maintenance issues for you to keep an eye on and areas to be improved.

Schedule Your Log Home Inspection In Colorado Springs Beyond

Curious about the condition of a log home? We offer log home inspection services to owners, potential buyers, Real Estate Agents, and contractors. The log home restoration specialists at PineBreeze Inspections can inspect, consult and provide detailed recommendations on both handcrafted and manufactured log homes.  Contact Us Today!

What Is a One-Year Home Warranty Inspection?

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Almost all home purchases include a one-year home warranty for the buyer. This warranty covers all major/costly issues that may arise in a home. But what if you are not aware of the issue until after the warranty expires? You are out of luck unless you get a home warranty inspection!

Many new home buyers do not realize the importance of a home warranty inspection because it’s just not something we really think about. However, getting a home inspection before the one-year expiration of your home warranty will help you identify anything that needs to be replaced or repaired so you can make a claim before your coverage ends.

It’s essential to get all the repairs and safety hazards well documented by a knowledgeable and professional home inspector at least a month before your home warranty company terminates the warranty period.

In this blog, we will discuss why you should get a home warranty inspection and what you should get checked before the home warranty expires.

​​What Is The One Year Home Warranty Inspection?

The one-year home warranty inspection is a guarantee from your builder that your home is safe and free of defects. If adjustments or repairs need to be made within the first 12 months of owning your home, the contractor covers the cost. While you technically have one year to get this inspection done, we highly recommend that you do it before your one year is up.

Why You Should Get A One Year Home Warranty Inspection Done

  • It helps you identify defects that you would have never known about, so you can get them repaired, at little or no out-of-pocket cost, while your home is still under warranty.
  • Having a good document, and professional report with pictures makes it easier for you to inform the warranty company about the repairs needed.
  • It helps you identify small defects that may eventually turn in expensive repairs in the near future. The cost of warranty repairs was basically paid for when you purchased your home. You have essentially already paid for these repairs.
  • Last but not the least, the cost of the inspection is nothing compared to the potential cost of repairs that will still be covered in your warranty.

Now, after learning why getting a home warranty inspection is important, let’s go over what should get checked during a home warranty inspection.

The One Year Home Warranty Inspection Checklist

The primary goal of a home warranty inspection is to provide a detailed report (after a thorough inspection) that lists all the items that are not performing or operating properly, as well as any safety threats.

  • Heating & Central Air Conditioning Systems
  • Lighting
  • Plumbing Connections & Fittings
  • Insulation
  • Electrical Outlets, Wiring & Panels
  • Attic
  • Windows & Doors
  • Floors
  • Drywall, Walls & Ceilings
  • Roofing
  • Fireplace & Chimneys
  • Gutters & Downspouts
  • Drainage
  • Decks & Wood Structures
  • Foundation
  • Appliances

Why Schedule One Year Home Warranty Inspection?

Taking advantage of your builder’s 1-year warranty ensures that your home is safe and sound for you to live in. Additionally, anything that’s noted in the inspection as requiring repair will be at no cost to you and could be a lot less expensive for the contractor to fix. If you choose to let your warranty expire, you will be stuck footing the bill for repairs. Furthermore, a private inspector is likely to uncover issues that weren’t listed in the municipal report when your home was completed. Private inspectors tend to be more thorough and detailed with their reports, so you know exactly what needs fixing and what kind of home repairs could be coming down the line.

Call Us Today!

If it’s time to schedule your 1-year warranty inspection, then let Pine Breeze Inspection be there for you. Our team of licensed professionals will uncover any hidden damage and causes for concern, and will make detailed recommendations for repairs that you can hand over to the builder with confidence. We also offer new construction and pre-listing inspections for residents throughout Colorado. Request your quote by calling today at 719-748-6894.

How Often Should I Pump My Septic Tank?

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We are local experts on septic systems and are often asked when should I pump my septic tank. Generally, septic systems are not the same as the common city sewer systems familiar to people. Once the unwanted waste has been flushed down a sewer drain, it is transported to a water treatment plant for treatment.

On the other hand, Septic tanks are owned by people and are located on private land. However, waste drained down a septic drain doesn’t go very far from its source. Meanwhile, it’s being stored in an underground tank until a septic pumping firm is contacted to empty it. And so, it is part of the homeowners’ responsibility in Colorado to schedule when to pump the tank. But how often should a septic tank be emptied? Read on to learn more about when should I pump my septic tank.

How Often Should I Pump My Septic Tank?

The standard septic tank requires pumping regularly. However, the times vary for the different households in Colorado. Depending on some factors, homeowners should pump out their septic tank every three to five years. Factors to consider here are the amount of waste and wastewater generated in your house, the number of people who live in your home, and the size of your septic tank.

What Can Make The Septic Tank Fill Up Sooner?

Damage To A Sewer Line

The presence of a clogged or broken drainpipe, which can transport liquids and waste to the septic tank, might give the impression that your tank is backing up. While this implies your tank typically isn’t full up, it might still be filled with liquid, which can ultimately make its way through deep clogs.

An Excessive Amount of Fluid

Your septic system’s leach field is intended to drain surplus liquid into the underlying ground. However, if your tank is overflowing with more fluid than it can discharge, the leach field will not function properly. Your tank may be full in this situation, even though it is only partially filled with liquid.

A Clogged or Damaged Drainage Field.

Drain fields, also known as leach fields, are supposed to endure for at least a decade, but if they fail or lose their efficiency, your tank will fill up faster with fluids that may be impossible to drain.

How To Keep The Septic Tank System Working Well

Here are a few tips to keep your septic tank in good working condition

Make Effective Use Of Water

Septic systems collect and treat all of the water flushed down the drain and the toilet, so conserving water means less stress on your system.

Take Care Of Your Landscape

It is recommended that you place your septic system at least 30 meters from any trees—also, avoid constructing a septic tank close to trees with more robust roots (such as willows). This also gives plenty of space when it comes time to pump my septic tank.

Keep The Drain Field Free Of Obstructions

Avoid parking a car, building a structure, or planting trees or a garden over the drain field of your septic system. Make sure your downspouts are pointed away from your drain field to keep it from becoming wet, which will hinder its ability to absorb and filter wastewater.

Always Schedule A Regular Septic Inspection & Pump My Septic Tank

If your house or company is connected to a septic system, you should have it examined at least once every three years, if not more frequently. Having a septic tank inspection helps :

Prevent Major Septic Problems From Occurring

Regular septic tank inspections will allow a professional to detect minor or growing problems before they become severe enough to cause catastrophic septic system collapse.

Improve The Efficiency Of Your Septic System

As with regular inspections, frequent inspections will also help you enhance the performance and extend the life of your home or business sewage system.

Having a regular septic tank inspection ensures you pump my septic tank when due. So, schedule a septic tank inspection to better understand what your septic system will require to continue functioning correctly for many years to come.

When to Consider a Sewer Inspection

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It’s hard to know what is happening in your sewage system. With so many pipes buried underground and trapped in your home’s foundation, how can you possibly know what kind of condition your sewage system is in or if there are any underlying problems? Thankfully, sewer camera inspections can provide you with accurate and detailed information related to your sewer.

Pine Breeze Inspections utilizes camera systems to quickly and accurately diagnose any issues inside your sewer pipes, taking the guesswork out of diagnosing issues as well as catching any minor issues before they become expensive problems.

What is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

Sewer camera inspections involve a small waterproof video camera mounted on the end of a flexible cable. This camera snake is inserted into the sewage system and pushed through the pipeline in order to do a visual inspection. These cameras can be used in underground pipes as well as pipes encased in concrete, located behind walls, or beneath your home’s foundation.

As long as there is access to the pipe, a sewer camera can be used to inspect the pipeline.

When to Use a Sewer Camera Inspection

Sewer camera inspections are a quick and easy way to determine the health of your plumbing systems and detect issues early before they become expensive repairs.

That being said, there are two situations where sewer camera inspections can be especially helpful:

Older Homes

Most houses over 20 years old are at risk of having issues with the sewage system. If your home was built prior to the installation of a city sewer line, your sewage piping may still be connected to a cesspool. Even if your piping has been rerouted to the city sewer line, cesspools pose a serious risk of sinking and collapsing.

A sewer camera inspection may also be a good idea if your home was built in the late 1940s-1950s. During this time, sewer lines were commonly made of tar paper and pressed wood. Also known as “Orangeburg pipes“, these pipes were designed as a low-cost alternative to metal pipes. Though they were made to last 50 years (under ideal conditions), Orangeburg pipes have been known to fail in as little as 10 years. Today, very few building codes accept Orangeburg pipe as a building material.

If you are looking to renovate your home, or if you are buying a new home, a sewer camera inspection is recommended to ensure that the sewer piping is up to code and to eliminate any future and costly issues.

Sewer Backup Issues

The worst thing you can do if your plumbing is acting funny is put off having a sewer camera inspection done. When small issues are caught early, they can be remedied before they become large, expensive problems.

You may notice one or more of these signs if there is a potential sewer backup:

  • Toilets won’t flush or plunge
  • Toilet bubbles when flushed or when a sink or tub is drained
  • One piece of plumbing causes backups in other pieces of plumbing
  • More than one drain is clogged
  • The presence of a foul smell near drains

Any of these signs warrant a closer inspection to determine the cause. The sooner the cause is found, the quicker a repair can be made.

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 about sewer inspections!

How to Check Your Roof for Storm Damage

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Most roofs are designed to be replaced every 30 years, on average. In an ideal world, this would happen. However, in the real world, there are countless things that can wreck your roof, requiring extensive repairs or an entire replacement long before the three-decade mark.

Storm damage is a common reason Americans have to spend on roof repair or replacement. Regardless of where you live in the country, it’s likely that you’ve encountered your fair share of violent storms at some point. But even if you haven’t, it helps to prepare for this rough weather.

In this comprehensive checklist, we give you all the information you need to deal with roof damage from storms.

Types of Roof Storm Damage

During a storm, there are various weather events that can cause roof damage. Here we look at some of them.

Wind

Hurricane-force winds traveling at high speeds can cause severe damage to your home’s roof. These winds can tear or remove shingles, exposing the roof deck, and underlayment for waterproofing material to the elements.

Gale-force winds, which are slower than hurricane-force winds, can also cause visible dents to your roof. Sharp, sudden gusts of wind lift up or curl the shingles, leaving the roof vulnerable to wind-driven rain.

Hail

Hail storms rarely last longer than a quarter of an hour. During that time, however, hailstones can cause visible dents and pockmarks on your roof. They can knock your shingle granules loose, requiring immediate roof repair.

Standing Water

The issue of standing water after a rainstorm is common in roofs that do not have proper drainage. It’s one of the top signs of a damaged roof, and you need to take action urgently.

Sometimes, the issue is caused by clogged gutters. Rainwater backs up under the shingles, allowing moisture to seep into the roof deck or the underlayment.

Debris

During a severe storm, debris can be hurled onto your roof. Anything from small tree branches to much larger tree limbs can impact your roof’s surface and dent it, leaving your roof vulnerable to intrusion by moisture.

What to Check After a Storm

Once the storm has passed, it’s time to examine your roof to determine the type and extent of damage you’re looking at. Here’s a checklist for you to follow.

Start With the Protruding Roof Parts

Check the chimneys, skylights, and other protruding roof parts for damage. Typically, such parts are covered with flashing and are sealed to avert water leaks into the seams.

If the flashing or seals seem damaged or compromised, you’ll need to take action. Leaving the problem unattended can lead to water leaks.

Inspect the Exterior Shingles

Roof damage after a storm is most evident on the shingles, as they serve as your home’s first line of defense against harsh weather. Check for granule loss, curling, and cracking of shingles. Some shingles might also be missing.

When checking the damage, avoid setting foot on the roof to do so. The best way to go about it is to use a pair of binoculars and inspect the roof from the ground. Alternatively, hire a roofing contractor to inspect the roof for you.

Examine the Roof Vents

Some homeowners think that storm damage to the roof’s soffit and fascia is superficial and nothing to be concerned about. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Damage to these two parts can interfere with your home’s ventilation system. Once your vents are warped or otherwise damaged, the air they draw into your indoors is compromised. That’s why vents should be part of your roof storm damage checklist.

Inspect the Gutters

The gutter system of your roof diverts rainwater away from your house during a storm. When gutters get clogged, water backs up under your shingles and can start to leak to areas where it shouldn’t, including the attic.

Gutters can become clogged during a storm that hurls leaves, twigs, and other debris on your roof and directs the debris to the gutters. Forceful storms can even cause the gutter system to detach from the roof.

Inspect these gutters following the storm to see whether they’re still in good shape or need repair.

Check the Attic and Ceilings

If your roof seems relatively undamaged on the exterior, check the attic and ceiling for signs of water spots. Hail and wind can cause invisible leaks that cause more significant issues later. Use a flashlight to check for any leaks, and take appropriate action if you see them.

Reliable Roof Inspections Across Eastern Colorado

Whether you’re just buying a house or looking for a new homeowners insurance policy, you may need a roof inspection. To most people, a roof inspection doesn’t seem like that big of a deal, but to an insurance company, the difference between a healthy roof and an older roof is often the difference between approving a policy or denying one. For a high-quality roof inspection, contact Pine Breeze Inspections today. Our team has the experience and knowledge to give you a thorough inspection, and accurate estimate, and take care of the repairs or replacement the first time.

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

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Spring is here! Be sure to get out there and live it to the fullest, as it’ll be over before we know it.

Spring is among the most accessible seasons for your homeowner’s to-do list. And that includes completing your regular maintenance checks and balances to help prevent the most common – and also costly – problems from occurring. Take notes and snap pictures of anything you’d like to share with an expert for advice or to help monitor the situation moving forward.

Of course, if you don’t feel comfortable performing some of the summer home maintenance tasks listed below or you don’t have the equipment on hand to complete each section properly, you may want to call in a professional handyperson.

We recommend having an annual home maintenance inspection to ensure you remain informed of any issues that may creep up in your home. After all, addressing issues early is the key to avoiding hefty repair bills!

The following checklist will help you keep your home a safe and healthy place to live this summer and throughout the year.

Spring Checklist:

  • Examine basement pipes for condensation or dripping, and take corrective action as necessary (e.g., reduce humidity and/or insulate cold water pipes)
  • Check air conditioning systems.
  • Inspect the basement floor drain to ensure the trap contains water. Refill with water if necessary.
  • If you have a plumbing fixture that isn’t used frequently, such as a laundry tub, spare bathroom sink, tub, or shower stall, briefly run some water to ensure water remains in the trap.
  • Deep clean area rugs and carpeting.
  • Vacuum bathroom fan covers.
  • Disconnect the clothes dryer duct and vacuum lint from the duct, areas surrounding your dryer and inside your dryer’s vent hood.
  • Check the security of all guardrails and handrails.
  • Test your windows’ ease of use by opening and closing them. Lubricate as required.
  • Inspect window putty on the outside of glass panes and replace it if needed.
  • Lubricate door hinges and tighten screws as necessary.
  • Lubricate garage door hardware and ensure it’s operating correctly.
  • Lubricate the automatic garage door opener motor, chain, etc., and adjust the auto-reverse mechanism correctly.
  • Check and replace damaged caulking and weather stripping around windows and doorways, including the doorway between the garage and home.
  • Inspect electrical service lines for secure attachment where they enter the home and ensure that water isn’t leaking into the house along the electrical conduit.
  • Check the exterior wood siding and trim for signs of deterioration. Clean, replace or refinish as necessary.
  • Check for and seal any holes in exterior cladding that could be an entry point for tiny pests such as bats, squirrels, and birds.
  • Remove any plants that contact or roots that penetrate the siding or brick.
  • Safely climb up on the roof or use binoculars to check its general condition, noting any sagging that could indicate structural problems requiring further investigation from the attic. Check the condition of shingles and replace/repair them as necessary. Examine all roof flashing, such as that located at the chimney and roof joints, for any signs of cracking or leaking.
  • Sweep chimneys connected to any wood-burning appliance or fireplace and inspect them for problems.
  • Check the chimney cap and caulking between the cap and the chimney.
  • Repair driveway and walkways as needed.
  • Replace or repair damaged steps that pose a safety risk.

Contact PineBreeze Inspections for Your Total Home Inspection in Colorado Springs

A total home inspection is an absolute must for both home buyers and home sellers. Contact PineBreeze Inspections today to book your inspection. We will get back to you right away. Our team is eager to help you through the home-buying journey in Colorado Springs.

How to Assess Roof Damage After a Storm

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Most roofs are designed to be replaced every 30 years, on average. In an ideal world, this would happen. However, in the real world, countless things can wreck your roof, requiring extensive repairs or an entire replacement long before the three-decade mark.

Storm damage is a common reason Americans have to spend on roof repair or replacement. Regardless of where you live in the country, it’s likely that you’ve encountered your fair share of violent storms at some point. But even if you haven’t, it helps to prepare for this rough weather.

This comprehensive checklist provides all the information you need to deal with storm-damaged roofs.

Types of Roof Storm Damage

Various agents can cause roof damage during a storm. Here are some of them.

Wind

Hurricane-force winds traveling at high speeds can cause severe damage to your home’s roof. Colorado Springs residents do not need to worry about these intense winds. For homeowners inside these hurricane-prone areas, these winds can tear or remove shingles, exposing the roof deck and underlayment for waterproofing material to the elements.

Gale-force winds, slower than hurricane-force winds, can also cause visible dents to your roof. Sharp, sudden wind gusts lift or curl the shingles, leaving the roof vulnerable to wind-driven rain.

Hail

Hail storms rarely last longer than a quarter of an hour. However, hailstones can cause visible dents and pockmarks on your roof during that time. They can knock your shingle granules loose, requiring immediate roof repair.

Standing Water

Standing water after a rainstorm is typical on roofs that do not have proper drainage. It’s one of the top signs of a damaged roof, and you must take action urgently.

Sometimes, the issue is caused by clogged gutters. Rainwater backs up under the shingles, allowing moisture to seep into the roof deck or the underlayment.

Debris

During a severe storm, debris can be hurled onto your roof. Anything from small tree branches to much larger tree limbs can impact your roof’s surface and dent it, leaving your roof vulnerable to intrusion by moisture.

What to Check After a Storm

Once the storm has passed, it’s time to examine your roof to determine the type and extent of damage you’re looking at. Here’s a checklist for you to follow.

Start With the Protruding Roof Parts

Check the chimneys, skylights, and other protruding roof parts for damage. Typically, such parts are covered with flashing and sealed to prevent water from leaking into the seams.

You must take action if the flashing or seals seem damaged or compromised. Leaving the problem unattended can lead to water leaks.

Inspect the Exterior Shingles

Roof damage after a storm is most evident on the shingles, as they serve as your home’s first defense against harsh weather. Check for granule loss, curling, and cracking of shingles. Some shingles might also be missing.

When checking the damage, avoid setting foot on the roof. The best approach is to use a pair of binoculars and inspect the roof from the ground. Alternatively, hire a roofing contractor to inspect the roof for you.

Examine the Roof Vents

Some homeowners think storm damage to the roof’s soffit and fascia is superficial and nothing to be concerned about. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Damage to these two parts can interfere with your home’s ventilation system. Once your vents are warped or otherwise damaged, the air they draw into your indoors is compromised. That’s why vents should be part of your roof storm damage checklist.

Inspect the Gutters

Your roof’s gutter system diverts rainwater away from your house during a storm. When gutters get clogged, water backs up under your shingles and can leak to areas where it shouldn’t, including the attic.

Gutters can become clogged during a storm that hurls leaves, twigs, and other debris onto your roof and directs it to the gutters. Forceful storms can even cause the gutter system to detach from the roof.

Inspect these gutters following the storm to see whether they’re in good shape or need repair.

Check the Attic and Ceilings

If your roof seems relatively undamaged on the exterior, check the attic and ceiling for signs of water spots. Hail and wind can cause invisible leaks that cause more significant issues later. Use a flashlight to check for any leaks, and take appropriate action if you see them.

Roof Inspections in Colorado Springs

Pine Breeze Inspections provides thorough roof inspections and roof certifications to ensure that the structural integrity of your roof is intact. We carefully evaluate all aspects of your roof and identify any areas that need repair or replacement, allowing you to prove your roof is in good condition. When we inspect your roof, you can be sure that all the details will be carefully evaluated. Don’t waste another moment; contact PineBreeze Inspections to schedule your roof inspection today.

How Colorado Summers Affect Your Foundation

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It tends to get toasty in Colorado during the summertime. The summers here can be brutal, with temps going over 90 degrees most of the time, and it often stays pretty warm until mid-September. Luckily, due to the high elevation, Colorado does not have to deal with oppressive humidity. But how does the hot weather affect the foundation of Colorado residents’ homes?

As the heat in Colorado can become overbearing, it can cause damage to the soil on your property and problems if you have a concrete slab foundation. Slab foundations are standard in Colorado and susceptible to damage when hot conditions arise. This soil damage or shrinkage often occurs when temps reach 90 degrees or higher; with a lack of rain, the soil can move away from the slab foundation because it’s so dry. It can also cause the concrete of your foundation to crack.

Also, you should not be concerned about just the summer. During the spring and winter months, when it’s colder and there tends to be more snow, you should check that there isn’t too much moisture surrounding your homes, such as standing water or puddles. It’s best to ensure water drains away from your house year-round, as too much water buildup can cause foundation problems.

Sinking Foundations and Dehydration

The soil around your house usually tends to be moist, so when dehydration occurs during a heatwave, the soil shrinks, cracks, shifts, and eventually fails to support your foundation. This is also known as settling.

Once settling starts, it will continue to do so until the foundation finds some form of support. So, if the soil has moved from your home due to the heat, the house will shift until it finds firm soil to re-establish itself. One to two months of such heat can be disastrous, and the after-effects will be damage not only to your foundation, such as slight sinking, but also to your home with the evolution of cracks in the floors, walls, and elsewhere.

If you suspect possible foundation damage, you should do routine checks inside and outside your home for the following:

  • Possible cracks in the slab foundation
  • Uneven floors
  • Cracks in walls
  • Cracks in door and window frames
  • Stuck doors and windows

How To Avoid Foundation Issues

What’s quite fascinating is that this issue can be helped with a straightforward ingredient: water. Adding water around your home’s foundation has been proven to help prevent shifting and settling.

One method to keep the soil moist is to use soaker hoses. These are primarily used for gardening and don’t operate like a traditional hose. They’re also known as ‘weeping hoses’ because the water slowly seeps through the fabric and helps saturate the ground. These hoses should be turned on roughly thrice weekly to keep the ground moist but not oversaturated. If you go this route, keep the hoses 6-22 inches from the foundation. The water will eventually seep into the ground and help keep the soil moist.

You can also run sprinklers if you have them. If you don’t have a built-in set of sprinklers, you can set up a regular garden hose to a portable sprinkler for about 15 minutes so that the water sprays the ground around your house and keeps it wet. It’s best to do this during sunset or once it gets dark because the water will evaporate if it’s done during the daytime when it’s hot. Remember that you may have a slightly higher water bill, but it may be worth it than replacing your foundation at an exorbitant cost.

Colorado Foundation Inspection

Our foundation experts will notice indicators and difficulties that indicate foundation degradation and the need for repair, some of which you may have overlooked or paid little or no attention to. Measurements will be gathered throughout the inspection, and damage and failing spots on the outside and inside of the home will be examined. After that, a strategy for repairing your home’s foundation will be devised. The most crucial thing you may also want to hear is the projected cost of the repairs, which will also be addressed.

Schedule Your Foundation Inspection in Colorado Springs

When searching for the right home inspector, it’s important to find someone you can trust — and that’s why we are here for you. The inspectors at PineBreeze Inspections are licensed by the State of Colorado, certified, and insured. When you need your home’s foundation inspected, you need it done right. Schedule your inspection with PineBreeze Inspections today and rest easy knowing the pros are on the job.

What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?

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Asbestos is largely a thing of the past, but it still comes back to haunt homeowners when it is found and must be removed.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral substance, which was once a common ingredient in construction materials because its fibers are soft and flexible, yet heat and corrosion-resistant. Asbestos is an effective insulator in its pure form and it can be added to other materials to make them stronger. Unfortunately, asbestos’ tiny fibers, which can be pulled into a fluffy consistency, are also what make it highly toxic to humans. The fibers can get trapped in the lungs and body, they never dissolve and are very hard for the body to dispel.

Why Is Asbestos Dangerous?

The same characteristics that make asbestos useful also make it dangerous. The microscopic asbestos fibers can’t be smelled, tasted, or seen, so it’s hard to know if you’ve been exposed to it. When you are exposed to asbestos, the fibers become trapped in your body. Over time, these fibers cause inflammation, scarring, and eventually genetic damage to the body’s cells. Asbestos can lead to numerous types of diseases and illnesses, some of which are hard to recover from. Because of this, the mineral fibers are now recognized as a health hazard and regulated by both OSHA and the EPA.

While no asbestos exposure is ideal, being exposed to asbestos one time isn’t likely to cause issues. The problems occur when you’re exposed on a regular basis, over a long period of time, or to an intense concentration. With each exposure, the level of asbestos in your body accumulates, as it has no way to leave. Right now, there is no way to reverse the damage this causes.

How Can You Be Exposed to Asbestos?

Many people know that it’s possible to be exposed to asbestos in old buildings where it was used. However, because asbestos is not banned in the United States, you can still be exposed to it anywhere it is used. Specific products that may still contain asbestos are listed on the EPA’s website and include some of the following examples:

  • Heat-resistant fabrics
  • Walls and floors around wood-burning stoves
  • Vinyl floor tiles and the adhesives used
  • Roofing and siding shingles
  • Attic and wall insulation that contains vermiculite
  • Textured paint and patching compounds found on walls and ceilings
  • Pipes covered with heat-resistant material

Asbestos-Related Diseases

Asbestosis

Asbestosis, or diffuse pulmonary fibrosis, is a non-cancerous lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. When asbestos fibers get stuck in the lung, they cause damage and scarring. This damage makes it much harder for the lung to operate. Though asbestosis is not cancerous, it has no cure and can be deadly if left unchecked. Common symptoms of asbestosis include chest pain, loss of appetite leading to weight loss, and shortness of breath.

Long-term deterioration from asbestos fibers hardens the affected person’s lungs. This can deprive them of oxygen and eventually suffocate them. In some cases, lung deterioration can cause other health effects or illnesses to arise. Asbestosis may lead to heart failure or mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma, rare cancer that can form in the linings of the lungs, heart, abdomen, or testicles.

Most cases of mesothelioma are not diagnosed until after cancer has spread to other areas in the body, making it harder to treat. However, if mesothelioma is caught early on, patients may be able to live several years after their diagnosis.

It can take 20-50 years of irritation from asbestos fibers before the symptoms of mesothelioma become noticeable. By this point, cancer may have spread throughout the body.

Those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma are encouraged to find out whether they may be eligible for compensation.

Lung Cancer

Asbestos may cause lung cancer if the fibers get trapped in the lungs and cause the formation of malignant (cancerous) tumors.

Approximately 4,000 cases of lung cancer diagnosed each year are caused by asbestos exposure. While lung cancer can be deadly, there are treatment options if it is caught early on. Lung cancer tumors tend to appear as growths, meaning that they can be identified and removed, potentially increasing survival time.

Interstitial Fibrosis

Interstitial fibrosis is a general name that refers to a group of over 200 different chronic lung diseases and disorders, including asbestosis. These disorders are characterized by scarring of the tissue between the air sacs in the lungs, which is often caused by exposure to dangerous airborne materials like asbestos. The two main signs and symptoms for interstitial fibrosis consist of dry cough and Shortness of breath at rest or aggravated by exertion.

Once lung scarring occurs, it’s usually considered to be irreversible. While some medications may slow the damage of interstitial fibrosis, many people never regain full function of their lungs. Depending on the exact disorder, lung transplants may be an option for those suffering from interstitial fibrosis.

Is Asbestos Banned Today?

While 55 countries around the world have banned asbestos — including Germany, Italy, and Japan — asbestos is still not banned in the U.S. as of 2020. The EPA tried to ban asbestos completely in 1989, but a court decision overturned this ruling in 1991.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

The best way to protect yourself from asbestos-related diseases is to avoid exposure to asbestos. In the workplace, avoiding high-risk jobs may be impossible. Still, there are regulations put in place now to help. The EPA has been working to protect Americans from the hazards associated with exposure to asbestos, including banning certain asbestos-containing products and materials and the use of these products in the future.

At home, it may be smart to think about hiring someone to do an asbestos inspection and getting them to remove any found. Some other safety precautions to use in order to avoid exposure include:

  • Sealing off any renovation work area with plastic sheets
  • Turning on air conditioners when working
  • Wearing a mask, disposable coveralls, and gloves during debris handling
  • Using a HEPA filter when cleaning
  • Disposing of any potentially asbestos-containing waste safely

No matter the supposed “benefits” of asbestos, the deadly mineral should never be used — there are always alternatives.