As you can see, these pictures of the crawlspace are extreme.  Nonetheless, they demonstrate how improper grading, lack of gutters and downspouts, and no vapor barrier can affect crawlspace moisture.  Additionally, at this home, the grading was actually sloped toward the foundation instead of away.  The absence of gutters and downspouts resulted in all roof [...]

Courtesy of InterNACHI If you want to build a new home, there are things you need to know before you begin. Learn about construction standards and about buying land, so you know your rights. MPS Supplementing Model Building Codes The Minimum Property Standards (MPS) establish certain minimum standards for buildings constructed under HUD housing programs. […]

Chalet Shingles Premature Wear Atlas Chalet Shingles and Your Home Inspection Atlas Chalet shingles were produced by the Atlas shingle company from 2000 to 2010.  These shingles were installed in thousands of homes in the southern United States. None the less, it was soon seen that there was a manufacturing issue with the shingles.  Chalet shingles [...]

Diagram of ledger flashing installed. Extending from behind siding over top of the ledger board. What is Deck Ledger Flashing? Most realtors and home buyers are not sure what deck ledger flashing is or its purpose and why it keeps coming up in home inspection reports.  What I am writing, is not meant to be an […]

Home inspection of deck ledger flashing. Deck ledger flashing prevents water from getting behind the ledger board and damaging the wall sheathing and rim joist. Ledger flashing extending behind the siding and across the junction of the deck ledger board and wall sheathing. Retrofitting ledger flashing to an older deck. Deck boards are not yet [...]

Why was there a wet spot on my ceiling during my home inspection? During this home inspection, we noticed a water spot on the ceiling of the laundry room.  Going into the attic, we found the insulation was wet under the dryer vent elbow.  All the junctions in the dryer vents were taped. Also, the [...]

Purchase A Home Inspection, it could save you thousands! Roof Inspection of 1-year-old home. When purchasing a new home, many buyers do not think a home inspection is necessary.   Since the home comes with a one year warranty, the belief is, that any problems will show up in this time. However,  some issues will not show [...]

Outside of encapsulation, there are basic building practices that should be followed to control the moisture in your crawlspace: Proper grading around your home. Grading should drop away from the foundation 6 inches in the first 10 feet. Proper grading is necessary to carry rainwater runoff away from the foundation. Gutters: Gutters and downspouts should be installed [...]