Combination inspectors make sure that many different elements of a structure are up to the building standards. They may check plumbing, electrical wiring, mechanical features, and the overall structure.

 

While a home inspector typically do not perform "code" inspections,the basis of the inspection is safety,and the underlying principles of the codes apply to all ages of construction.In many regards,older homes must be evaluated by present standards,particulaly when we realize that those homes will be using modern appliances that might exceed  the capacity of the present wiring system.I will conduct a thorough home inspection for you so will have more definitive property condition report before you go to closing.My job is not to report that there is a nick in the wall,or the carpet is bad these are items that are left to the buyer to see.

There are many fields of construction inspection, such as plumbing inspection, electrical inspection, and mechanical inspection. The title "building inspector" may refer to someone who specializes in more than one of these fields or to someone who checks the overall structure of a building.Building and construction inspectors must have a background in a building trade, such as plumbing, carpentry, or electrical installation and repair.

 

 

 

In March of 1999, the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) Research Center listed the most common problems they found that were associated with water intrusion in EIF systems as being: 

• Windows, Doors, Electrical Outlets

• Roof Flashings

• Deck Flashings

• Below Grade Installation

• Projections, Vents                                          

• The NAHB commissioned study went on to state: ". . .homes surveyed ages two to six are experiencing structural damage due to excessive moisture buildup within walls.  The cause of the moisture accumulation is rain water intrusion from a combination of factors including: improper sealing at joints and around windows, doors, and other penetrations; improperly sloped horizontal EIFS surfaces; inadequate flashing at roof lines, dormers, decks, etc.; and window frames that leak into wall cavities." What Is EIFS (Exterior Insulated Finish Systems)? While giving the appearance of stucco, EIFS is actually a multi-layered wall system that consists of the following components: Insulation Board - Made of polystyrene (or similar material), which is secured to the exterior wall surface. Base Coat - Applied on top of the insulation and reinforced with fiber mesh. Finish Coat - Applied on top of the base coat giving a durable, crack-resistant finish. The first half of the acronym, "Exterior Insulation" is derived from the fact that the first component installed is a foam insulation board. The foam board is mechanically and/or adhesively attached to the exterior sheathing of the home. In this respect the foam board serves as an exterior insulating layer. Over this foam board is applied a synthetic base-coat material in which is embedded a fiberglass reinforcing mesh. This is typically referred to as the "base-coat". On top of the base coat is applied one or more "finish coats". This is the exterior layer that gives the product its stucco-like appearance. Hence the second part of the acronym "Finish Systems". EFIS provides many advantages that other exterior finishes and sidings do not.  Chief among these are superior energy efficiency and great design flexibility.  As a matter of fact, studies have shown that EIFS can reduce the air infiltration in a wall by as much as 55%, when compared to standard brick or wood construction. One should bear in mind that an EIFS system is a non-structural component of the wall.  In other words, it is not designed to be weight bearing. “Short-cuts” are often taken in the application of EIFS systems, causing the primary face seal moisture barrier to fail and leak (lack of proper caulking, flashing, etc.).  The integrity of the second line of defense is highly dependent on correct detailing by the designer and proper installation by the builder and his subcontractors.  Very often, flashings, housewrap, windows, doors, etc., are improperly installed. EIFS does not breathe and will not allow trapped moisture to evaporate easily, which can cause great damage over time.Nachi-Atlanta home inspection can inspect EIFS to insure the condition of the siding application.

   

• Replacing the siding on a home is a major undertaking and a considerable expense, but it is becoming more common as a means of renovating the exterior surfaces of older, badly weathered homes.

  The current material of choice is cement siding, commonly known as HardyPlank (a proprietary name given by the company that developed the product). This is a traditional-looking lap siding, designed to have the appearance of wood planks, but consisting of fiber-reinforced cement. It is preferred for its strength and durability and can be installed without removing the existing plywood siding. If properly installed by a qualified professional, it should last as long as the building.

  HardyPlank should be installed over an approved-type moisture-resistant membrane to keep the interior wall cavities dry. Any punctures or tears in the membrane should be repaired before the siding is applied. Errors in this aspect of the installation can allow moisture penetration and resultant dry rot and mold infection.

  Rain gutters at the roof eaves can keep water runoff from splashing onto the siding, thereby preventing stains, damage to the finish, and increased likelihood of water intrusion. Gutters should be cleaned as often as leaves accumulate in them. Frequency depends upon how many and what kind of overhanging trees you have. If the gutters are not cleaned, they become clogged, and water overflows from them when it rains. If leaves remain for long periods, they can cause rust damage to the gutters and downspouts.                    

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