Is the Chimney Cap too Big or is the Chimney too Small

 

Charlotte NC home inspector Preston Sandlin was performing a home inspection near Albemarle NC and he noticed a very curious thing; a chimney with a rain cap way too big.  After futher investigation he found that the rain cap obviously cam from another chimney that was way bigger than this one.  The problem with  this rather large rain cap is that it can actually impead the drafting process and migh actually lead to some back drafting which could result in carbon monoxide in the house.  This should be repaired to prevent this.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Dryer Vent Safety

by Nick Gromicko, Rob London and Kenton Shepard

Clothes dryers evaporate the water from wet clothing by blowing hot air past them while they tumble inside a spinning drum. Heat is provided by an electrical heating element or gas burner. Some heavy garment loads can contain more than a gallon of water which, during the drying process, will become airborne water vapor and leave the dryer and home through an exhaust duct (more commonly known as a dryer vent).

A vent that exhausts moist air to the home exterior has a number of requirements:

1. It should be connected. The connection is usually behind the dryer but may be beneath it. Look carefully to make sure it’s actually connected!
2. It should not be restricted. Dryer vents are often made from flexible plastic or metal duct, which may be easily kinked or crushed where they exit the dryer and enter the wall or floor. This is often a problem since dryers tend to be tucked away into small areas with little room to work. Vent hardware is available which is designed to turn 90° in a limited space without restricting the flow of exhaust air. Restrictions should be noted in the inspector's report. Airflow restrictions are a potential fire hazard!
3. One of the reasons that restrictions are a potential fire hazard is that, along with water vapor evaporated out of wet clothes, the exhaust stream carries lint – highly flammable particles of clothing made of cotton and polyester. Lint can accumulate in an exhaust duct, reducing the dryer’s ability to expel heated water vapor, which then accumulates as heat energy within the machine. As the dryer overheats, mechanical failures can trigger sparks, which can cause lint trapped in the dryer vent to burst into flames. This condition can cause the whole house to burst into flames! Fires generally originate within the dryer but spread by escaping through the ventilation duct, incinerating trapped lint, and following its path into the building wall.

InterNACHI believes that house fires caused by dryers are far more common than are generally believed, a fact that can be appreciated upon reviewing statistics from the National Fire Protection Agency. Fires caused by dryers in 2005 were responsible for approximately 13,775 house fires, 418 injuries, 15 deaths, and $196 million in property damage. Most of these incidents occur in residences and are the result of improper lint cleanup and maintenance. Fortunately, these fires are very easy to prevent.

The recommendations outlined below reflect International Residential Code (IRC) SECTION M1502 CLOTHES DRYER EXHAUST guidelines:

M1502.5 Duct construction.
Exhaust ducts shall be constructed of minimum 0.016-inch-thick (0.4 mm) rigid metal ducts, having smooth interior surfaces, with joints running in the direction of air flow. Exhaust ducts shall not be connected with sheet-metal screws or fastening means which extend into the duct.

This means that the flexible, ribbed vents used in the past should no longer be used. They should be noted as a potential fire hazard if observed during an inspection.

M1502.6 Duct length.

The maximum length of a clothes dryer exhaust duct shall not exceed 25 feet (7,620 mm) from the dryer location to the wall or roof termination. The maximum length of the duct shall be reduced 2.5 feet (762 mm) for each 45-degree (0.8 rad) bend, and 5 feet (1,524 mm) for each 90-degree (1.6 rad) bend. The maximum length of the exhaust duct does not include the transition duct.

This means that vents should also be as straight as possible and cannot be longer than 25 feet. Any 90-degree turns in the vent reduce this 25-foot number by 5 feet, since these turns restrict airflow.

A couple of exceptions exist:

1. The IRC will defer to the manufacturer’s instruction, so if the manufacturer’s recommendation permits a longer exhaust vent, that’s acceptable. An inspector probably won’t have the manufacturer’s recommendations, and even if they do, confirming compliance with them exceeds the scope of a General Home Inspection.
2. The IRC will allow large radius bends to be installed to reduce restrictions at turns, but confirming compliance requires performing engineering calculation in accordance with the ASHRAE Fundamentals Handbook, which definitely lies beyond the scope of a General Home Inspection!

M1502.2 Duct termination.
Exhaust ducts shall terminate on the outside of the building or shall be in accordance with the dryer manufacturer’s installation instructions. Exhaust ducts shall terminate not less than 3 feet (914 mm) in any direction from openings into buildings. Exhaust duct terminations shall be equipped with a backdraft damper. Screens shall not be installed at the duct termination.

Inspectors will see many dryer vents terminate in crawlspaces or attics where they deposit moisture, which can encourage the growth of mold, wood decay, or other material problems. Sometimes they will terminate just beneath attic ventilators. This is a defective installation. They must terminate at the exterior and away from a door or window! Also, screens may be present at the duct termination and can accumulate lint and should be noted as improper. 

M1502.3 Duct size.
The diameter of the exhaust duct shall be as required by the clothes dryer’s listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Look for the exhaust duct size on the data plate.

M1502.4 Transition ducts.
Transition ducts shall not be concealed within construction. Flexible transition ducts used to connect the dryer to the exhaust duct system shall be limited to single lengths not to exceed 8 feet (2438 mm), and shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2158A.

In general, an inspector will not know specific manufacturer’s recommendations or local applicable codes and will not be able to confirm the dryer vent's compliance to them, but will be able to point out issues that may need to be corrected

Buying a Foreclosure

by Nick Gromicko and Rob London

Purchasing foreclosed homes in desirable areas at below-market values can be a sound investment strategy. Appreciation on their original prices may be tax-free.  Buying foreclosed rental properties can provide positive cash flow, as well as valuable tax deductions. On the other hand, buying a foreclosure involves homework, patience, and a certain amount of luck. For those wishing to get a bargain house through the foreclosure process, it’s best to learn the basics.

Four Ways to Buy a Foreclosed Home

• A presale is when the prospective buyer negotiates with the current owner before the house is foreclosed upon. Presale discounts can be considerable, but communicating and reasoning with the owner isn’t always easy; they might have legal problems, lost their phone service or electricity, or greet you with suspicion, having already been hounded and threatened by creditors. And after time and energy have been invested, the deal can fall through if the owner comes up with the money to repay their debt, or for any number of unexpected reasons. With persistence, however, the seasoned real estate investor can profit from presales. To find out about presales, you can try one of the following avenues:
  • Ask your local county court how to search new notices of default.
  • Find out if the County Recorder has data available online.
  • Look in the "legal notices" section of the newspaper for properties that are coming up for sale at public auction. Take note of the address, the property owner’s name, the tax ID, and whatever other information is contained in the ad.
• A foreclosed home may be sold at a public auction, in which buyers can expect a discount of 10% to 25% of market value. Interested bidders are generally required to show proof of financing, and must have a minimum cash deposit before they are qualified to bid. It might be impossible to gain entry to inspect the interior, too, which makes this type of purchase risky. The local building department may have permit records that can clue you in to the building’s layout and appearance.
• A real estate-owned (REO) sale is a transaction where a foreclosed house is purchased directly from the bank. These properties typically wound up in the bank’s portfolio after failing to sell at auction. REO investments are relatively safe, as there are no tenants to evict or hidden liens and, unlike properties sold at public auction, buyers can usually receive a mortgage to pay for them. And purchasers might even get an unused house; the slow economy has left many builders at the end of their construction-loan periods without finding buyers for the homes, in which case the bank will foreclose on the brand new homes. Unfortunately, REOs are usually offered at near-market prices to recoup the costs of property taxes, maintenance and legal fees. To find REOs, try the following:
  • Check lenders’ websites, as they may have a list of their REOs, along with contact information for the appropriate real estate agent.
  • Call lenders and ask to speak to someone who handles their foreclosures.
  • Check newspapers.
• The Department of Housing and Urban Development has tens of thousands of HUD homes whose previous owners defaulted on federally issued loans. After a period during which local governments gain exclusive buying privileges, they become available to individual buyers who pledge to live in the property. After another 10 days, investors may bid on the property. It’s difficult to make a profit on these houses, as HUD releases them at near-market values.

Tips for Foreclosure Purchases

• Invest time in research and preparation. Those new to the field should spend some time learning the variables of foreclosure investing before making any purchases.
• Budget carefully to prepare for the unexpected. The house may require unforeseen repairs, such as a leaky roof or unstable deck. The price tag of the home itself is often just the first of a series of fees. What if you planned on rental cash flow to cover the mortgage, but you can’t find a tenant?
• Avoid buying a foreclosure sight-unseen. Try to see the house yourself before buying it, or hire someone to evaluate at it in your absence. Distant investors are buying up properties unseen in bulk, and they’re often unpleasantly surprised at how much they’ve been misled.
• Evaluate the neighborhood. If the foreclosure is rife with problems, but it’s in a desirable area with high property resale values, it may still be worth it to make a low offer. An area with several foreclosures or a high crime rate can undermine an otherwise good deal, however.
• Consider how long the house has been vacant. Building damage – and the costs required to make the house livable - generally increases with the time that has lapsed since the last tenant vacated. Pests are a particular issue in houses that have been empty for a long time, and plumbing defects and leaks increase in likelihood in such homes, as well.
• Examine the landscaping. Left unchecked, trees can send their roots into the foundation, and vines can creep into the windows.
• Has the house been professionally inspected by an InterNACHI inspector? Foreclosures can be notorious for damage suffered at the hands of past tenants, through both inadvertent and intentional vandalism and theft.

 

In summary, there are a number of ways to go about buying a foreclosed home, and buyers should exercise patience, persistence and careful planning before buying foreclosed properties.

Electrical Panel Inspections

 Electrical panels are boxes that house circuit breakers, which are are safety devices that stop the electrical current if it exceeds the safe level for some portion of the home electrical system.

 

Safety 

Many people, even experienced electricians, have been killed or seriously injured while opening electrical panels. In 1991, an Atlanta electrician was killed while attempting to inspect a panel that had a faulty spring-loaded bus-bar assembly. Apparently, the bus-bar was moved while the electrician was opening the panel, causing an arc and a lethal electrical explosion. Generally, two factors contribute to these situations:  defective components and complacency.

Inspectors must be aware that all forms of electrical inspections, especially electrical panel inspections, are inherently dangerous. Practice calm, steady movements and learn to avoid distractions. A sudden flash, shout or movement could cause an inspector to lunge and touch an electrically live and dangerous component. Advise your client that they should never remove an electrical panel cover themselves, as they should leave this duty to InterNACHI inspectors or qualified electricians. Before touching the electrical panel, inspectors should ask themselves the following questions:

• Do I have an escape path? Make sure that you know where you can safely turn or step if you must safely escape a dangerous surprise, such as bees or sparks. An unfortunately placed shovel or extension cord, for instance, can turn a quick jerk into a dangerous fall.
• Are the floors wet? Never touch any electrical equipment while standing on a wet surface!
• Does the panel appear to be wet? Check overhead for dripping water that has condensed on a cold water pipe. Moisture can arrive in more ways than you can imagine.
• Is the panel rusty? Rust is an indication of previous wet conditions that may still exist.

As an optional safety measure, use a voltage ticker to make sure the box is safe to touch. If the alarm sounds on the device, have the box examined by a qualified electrician. Also, safety glasses and other personal protective equipment may be used to protect against burns and electric shock.

While removing the panel cover, inspectors should:

• Stand a little back while removing the cover, which makes it easier to remain in a blocking position.
• Stand so as to block your client from touching the panel and its components.
• inform the client that opening the panel is a dangerous step, and that if sparks fly, the client should not touch the inspector.

Service Panel Inspection

Inspectors can check for the following defective conditions during an electrical panel inspection:

• insufficient clearance. According to the 2008 National Electrical Code, most residential electrical panels require at least a 3-foot clearance or working space in front, 30 inches of width, and a minimum headroom clearance of 6 feet, or the height of the equipment, whichever is greater. If obstacles would make it unsafe for you to inspect the service panel, you have the right to disclaim it.
• aluminum branch wiring.
• sharp-tipped panel box screws or wires damaged by these screws. Panel box cover screws must have blunt ends so they do not pierce the wires inside the box. Look for wires that pass too closely to the screw openings inside the electrical panel. 
• circuit breakers that are not properly sized.
• oxidation or corrosion to any of the parts. Oxidized or corroded wires will increase the resistance of conductors and create the potential for arcing. 
• damage caused by rodents. Rodents have been known to chew through wire insulation in electrical panels (and other areas), creating an unsafe condition. Rodents have been electrocuted this way, leaving an unsightly mess inside the panel.
• evidence of electrical failures, such as burned or overheated components.
• evidence of water entry inside the electrical panel. Moisture can corrode circuit breakers so that they won't trip, make connections less reliable, and make the equipment unsafe to touch.
• evidence of missing or improper bonding.  This may indicate improper wiring, damaged equipment or unsafe conditions.
• the physical contact points of the overcurrent protection device to the contact point of the buss are not making good contact. The sounds of arcing (a cracking or popping sound) may indicate this condition.
• panel manufactured by Zinsco or Federal Pacific Electric (FPE). These panels have a reputation for being problematic and further evaluation by a qualified electrician is recommended. Zinsco panels can generally be identified by a blue and silver "Zinsco" label inside the panel, and an embossed "Magnetrip" label at the top of the panel face. FPE panels should include, if they were not removed, one of the following identifying labels:

•  
  • Federal Electric
  • Federal Pacific Electric
  • Federal NOARC
  • Federal Pioneer
  • FPE
  • FPE-Stab-Lok

  • Stab-Lok 

In summary, electrical panels are potentially dangerous and should be inspected with care.

Termites Found in Attic During Charlotte Home Inspection

Charlotte NC home inspector Patrick Waddell of Home Inspection Carolina was inspection a home Tuesday afternoon when he pulled some insulation back in the attic and found termites.  Now it is important to now that termites come from the ground and have to return to the ground for moisture.  This means they usually eat what's closest to them first.  If these termites found on this Charlotte NC home inspection were found int the attic you can bank on there being damage all the way up the wall that is probabaly hidden. 

If you need home inspection information or you are in need of a great home inspector in the Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Fort Mill or Rock Hill areas contact Home Inspection Carolina.  They have performed over 23,432 home inspection and will not let you buy the money pit.  We have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  Please give us a call (704) 542-6575

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Can't Bear It

Charlotte NC home inspector Patrick Waddell of Home Inspection Carolina was perform a home inspection just before Christmas when he noticed the the floor was buckling and bowing.  When he went underneath the house he found out why.  The girder was not properly supporting the house as you can see from this phot.  This will have to be repaired as the structural integrity of the home has now been compromised.

If you need home inspection information or you are in need of a great home inspector in the Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Fort Mill or Rock Hill areas contact Home Inspection Carolina.  They have performed over 23,432 home inspection and will not let you buy the money pit.  We have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  Please give us a call (704) 542-6575

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Is Something Missing Here

Charlotte home inspector Preston Sandlin was inspecting a home in Dilworth when he went out on the back porch and noticed something peculier.  Do you notice something odd about this light?  It seems like something is missing here doesn't it?  It's the ceiling fan.  The blades are missing.  When you pull the chain, it starts spinning but nothing happens.  If you are moving to Dilworth, or any of the other Charlotte Neighborhoods and you want a thorough home inspection give Home Inspection Carolina a call. 

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Home Inspection Carolina

10023 Zackery Ave

Charlotte NC 28277

(704) 542-6575

Charlotte NC Home Inspector Finds Many Electrical Problems

Home Inspection Carolina inspector Preston Sandlin was inspecting a home in Mooresville NC when he cam across this electrical panel with a myraid of electrical problems including PVC being used as electrical conduit.  The mast head is actually up in the attic and the line going to it is loose.  There are many electrical problem here that will need to be fixed.

Home Inspection Carolina inspects homes in Charlotte NC, Mooresville NC, Weddington NC Gastonia NC and Belmont NC,  They perform home inspections, termite inspections, radon testing, infrared scanning, and carbon monoxide testing.  If you are buying a home in these areas please keep the over 100 years of combined home inspection and contruction experience of Home Inspection Carolina to work for you.  Give Home Inspection Carolina a call today (704) 542-6575.

Charlotte NC Home Inspection Reveals a Dangerous Hazard

Charlotte NC home inspector Preston Sandlin was doing a home inspection Waxhaw NC yesterday when he noticed an open junction box going to a power ventilator.  If there is a surge or spark in the line here at this connection it could catch something combustible on fire.  This is why all junctions should be housed in a jnction box. 

If you need home inspection information or you are in need of a great home inspector in the Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Fort Mill or Rock Hill areas contact Home Inspection Carolina.  They have performed over 23,432 home inspection and will not let you buy the money pit.  We have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  Please give us a call (704) 542-6575

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Is It Just Me or Do You Like a Little Privacy in Your Bathroom Too.

 

Charlotte home inspectot Chip Sprague of Home Inspection Carolina was recently inspecting a home in Davidson NC when he found a slight problem.  You couldn't close the door all the way because the toilet blocked it.  Now I I know what your thinking.  Why don't you just drop the pins out of the hinges and move it to the outside of the toilet.  Yes you are right.  You could do that but hen you won't be able to open the dorr all the way.  Now we could do a rather redneck repair and notch the door so it will open and close.  :)

If you need home inspection information or you are in need of a great home inspector in the Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Fort Mill or Rock Hill areas contact Home Inspection Carolina.  They have performed over 23,432 home inspection and will not let you buy the money pit.  We have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  Please give us a call (704) 542-6575

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte NC Home Inspector Show's How to fix Cracked Chimney Cap

How_to_Repair_a_Cracked_Chimney_Cap.wmv Watch on Posterous

 

Do you have cracks in your chimney?  This could lead to a situation where you could get leaks in your chimney.  In that case this video is for you.  Watch Preston Sandlin of Home Inspection show how to resurface the chimney cap.  You need to use mortar with fiberglass or polymers in the mortar mix in with the mortar.  This will help hold the mortar together and seal it.  If you ever wondered how to patch your chimney cap then this video is for you.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Reveals the No.1 Reason for HVAC Problems

Charlotte Home Inspector Preston Sandlin finds a multitude of problems at most homes where he inspects most homes.  One of the most common problems he finds on HVAC systems is dirty filters.  When the filters are dirty they will clog and bend in.  When this happens dirty air is introduced to the system.  With this dirty air introduced to the system it cam clog the AC coil and cause the condensation line to back up and overflow.  This is why it so important to change your filters on a regular basis. 

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Finds Dangerous Double Electrical Problem

Charlotte home inspector Preston Sandlin found a dangerous situation on a recent Charlotte home inspection where he found two wires going into the same breaker causing a situation where the the wires could heat up and cause a problem.  Square D is the only breakers that are made to allow for two wires into one breaker.  If it isn't the specially made sqaure D it is probably going to be a double tab that is illegal and is a fire hazard like the one you see here.  If you have a double tap you should call a lisensed electrician.

If you need home inspection information or you are in need of a great home inspector in the Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Fort Mill or Rock Hill areas contact Home Inspection Carolina.  They have performed over 23,432 home inspection and will not let you buy the money pit.  We have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  Please give us a call (704) 542-6575

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Finds bad Rafter

Charlotte Home Inspector Chip Sprague of Home Inspection Carolina found a bad rafter on a recent home inspection where the tin roof had been leaking for awhile.  The nail hole in the tin roof caused the leak that caused the moisture to come in and get to to the rafter.  If you have a tin roof all of the nail holes should be sealed to prevent water penetration which leads to wood rot and deteriation of the rafter.  This will now have to be sealed and the wood will have to be replaced.

If you need home inspection information or you are in need of a great home inspector in the Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Fort Mill or Rock Hill areas contact Home Inspection Carolina.  They have performed over 23,432 home inspection and will not let you buy the money pit.  We have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  Please give us a call (704) 542-6575

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Infrared Inspector Finds Missing Insulation

Preston Sandlin of Home Inspection Carolina can find missing insulation without opeening up any walls.  He does this by using and infrared camera.  In the picture above you can see that there is no insulation under the kitchen sink area.  This is a picture from Winter time and you can see the heat is escaping under the kitchen cabinet.  From the outside of the house you can see this heat escaping.  What is so great about this is that we can see more than the normal eyes.   If you want the most thorogh home inspection you can get make sure your home inspector uses  an infrared camera and uses a a home inspection checklist.

If you need home inspection information or you are in need of a great home inspector in the Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Fort Mill or Rock Hill areas contact Home Inspection Carolina.  They have performed over 23,432 home inspection and will not let you buy the money pit.  We have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  Please give us a call (704) 542-6575

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Uses Infrared Camera and Home Inspection Checklist to Find Hidden Moisture

Charlotte home inspector Preston Sandlin of Home Inspection Carolina use a home inspection checklist and an infrared camera to find hidden moisture damage.  By using an infrared camera to scan the interior and the exterior of the home Home Inspection Carolina can see things that can't be seen by the naked eye.  Ussually this is in the form of missing insulation or moisture.  If you want the most thorough inspection you can get make sure your home inspector is using an infrared camera and a home inspection checklist.

If you need home inspection information or you are in need of a great home inspector in the Charlotte, Huntersville, Concord, Fort Mill or Rock Hill areas contact Home Inspection Carolina.  They have performed over 23,432 home inspection and will not let you buy the money pit.  We have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  Please give us a call (704) 542-6575

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Uses Home Inspection Checklist to Find Problems

Charlotte home inspectors Home Inspection Carolina uses a home inspection checklist to find problems on the houses they are inspecting.  By using a home inspection checklist their inspector are able to provide a thorough quality home inspection and keep a routine.  If you are having a home inspected make sure your inspector is using quality home inspection checklist.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte NC Home Inspector Reveal Dangerous Problem in Panel Box

Home Inspection Carolina Inspector Matt Ciccolella was performing a home inspection recently in Charlotte NC when found a danger problem in the panel box.  The homeowner had double hitched or double lugged one of the breakers in the panel box.  If the breaker is not made for this and right now squared D is the only breaker we know that is.  He should have added a whole new breaker instead.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte NC Home Inspector Reveals Danderous Deck

When ever you have block supports under a house or under a deck the blocks should be turned in such a way that the hole are verticle and not sideways.  If the block is on its side that is actually the weak part of the block like you see on this picture.  This is an impopper support. Check the supports under your deck and under your house to make sure they have a footer and the blocks are turned the right way.  If it looks a little off don't hesitate to call a professional home inspector.  If you live in the Charlotte NC area call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte NC Home Inspector Explains Trim Damage

 

One of the most common problems we see daily on our home inspections is trim damage.  Trim damaged is caused moisture gets to wood on your house where it is not primed or painted.  Wood is porous and will wick up water.  Usuallly the exposed wood is primed and painted and can handle weathering.  The problem comes once moisture gets in behind the the wood and it gets wicked up.  This is why you have to keep all wooden joints caulked.  Areas that are most likely to get moisture damage are trim joints and places where wood meets other other materials like where the garage trim is like in this picture.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Why is a Firewall Important

Firewall in residential construction is usually drywall or gypsum board.  You usually see this in garages between the garage and th the heated living area.   You can also find them in appartments or condominiums between units.  The purpose of the firewall is to slow down a fire if one starts. The idea is to keep a fire from quickly spreading and giving people time to get out.  Its more likely that a fire could start in the garage than other parts of the house.  This is why it's code in mosts parts of the country to have a firewall like you see in this picture.  Make sure your home inspector checks for this.  The firewall on this Charlotte NC home has been compromised and should be fixed.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

Why is a Firewall Important

Firewall in residential construction is usually drywall or gypsum board.  You usually see this in garages between the garage and th the heated living area.   You can also find them in appartments or condominiums between units.  The purpose of the firewall is to slow down a fire if one starts. The idea is to keep a fire from quickly spreading and giving people time to get out.  Its more likely that a fire could start in the garage than other parts of the house.  This is why it's code in mosts parts of the country to have a firewall like you see in this picture.  Make sure your home inspector checks for this.  The firewall on this Charlotte NC home has been compromised and should be fixed.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

The Upside and Downside of Siding

There are many different types of sidings or veneers used for houses.  There are some advantages and disadvantages of each one.  Being a home inspector in Charlotte NC I have seen them all over the last 15 years inspecting.  Brick siding is my favorite but it is probabaly the most expensive as well.  It doesn't take much settling for brick to crack either.  Vinyl siding isvery popular now because its relatively inexpensive and you don't have to paint it.  The bad thing about vinyl though is it has very little insulation value and it can melt or crack in very hot or very cold conditions.  Masonite is what you see in the picture above and it also is relative inexpensive and has insulation value but it too has some downsides.  If moisture gets in behind it it will deteriorate it like you see in the picture above.  There is a relative new siding out there hardiplank which is a composite that seems to have good durability and "R" value but may not hold paint on it very well.  We will have to see over time how it holds up.  When choosing a siding for your home just remember the pro's and con's of each.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

Before You Move In You Better Check.....

So you have bought the new house and picked out the colors and the window treatments, you had the home inspected and the repairs have been made are you ready to move in?  Well one thing you might not realize is that there are about four diferent types of dyer plugs out there and depending on the year your house was built and the year your dryer was manufactured they may or may not match up.  What can you do?  Actually it's a pretty easy fix as you can go to Lowes or Home Depot an buy the chord that will fit your plug.  Installing it on the dryer is a simple affair as it has four wires that are color coded and can be easilly installed with a small screwdriver.  You just want to make sure you know which one of the four your plug is before you go to the store and don't do like i did and have to buy all of them and take back the one's that it's not.  At Home Inspection Carolina we actually take a picture of your outlet so you will know which chord to buy.  It is some much easier to install before you move the dryer in.

There are many home inspection companies you can choose from when you need a home inspector in Charlotte NC.  Let me tell you why Home Inspection Carolina is your best choice.  These guys have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  They fix the small things like rubbing doors and sticking windows instead of putting them on the home inspection report like other home inspectors.  They have a preinspection program designed to help you sell your house by offering you a discount on the inspection and providing you with multiple copies of the report to give out.  They also put out a just inspected sign in the yard of your Charlotte NC home.  Home Inspection Carolina then sends out a "just inspected" email to their data base.  They like to think of it as a premarketing inspection instead of a prelisting inspection. 

Two new things that Home Inspection Carolina has started doing are home maintenance videos and customer coupons.  They have a large library of home maintenance videos on youtube so they link to these within the appropriate points in the report.  They also have established relationships with many vendors and contractors that allow them to give coupons to their home inspection clients.  The idea is to provide am entertainment book or citi pass book for new homeowners.  These are just some of the benefits of using Home Inspection Carolina.  If you are buying a home near Charlotte NC call them today. 

Home Inspection Carolina

(704) 542-6575

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Finds Mold in Crawl Space

 

Over the years as building technology has evolved houses have gotten larger and larger meaning larger and larger crawlspaces.  Although we all enjoy this new square footage in many of these "mini mansions"  there is a downside.  The downside is that with these new large crawl spaces ventilation is not nearly as good causing moisture to get trapped. This problem is compounded by AC ducts running throught the crawl that are cold attracting condensation.  All this adds up to wet crawl spece which can add up to mold, termites or wood rot. 

The e question then becomes how do we fix this moisture and this mold.  Well traditionally we would add extra vents and/or plastic to increase the ventilation.  The problem with the mini mansions is that it doesn't work if there just aren't places to put the ventilation.  Many of these houses have a three car garage going down one side of the crawl and a large porch running down the other side.  Some of these house will need and enclosed crawl space.  If done properly the enclosed crawl space will work.  The downside is thought that enclosed crawlspaces are not cheap.  You just don't want to wind up with mold like you see in the picure above from Charlotte NC home inspector Preston Sandlin of Home Inspection Carolina.

There are many home inspection companies you can choose from when you need a home inspector in Charlotte NC.  Let me tell you why Home Inspection Carolina is your best choice.  These guys have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  They fix the small things like rubbing doors and sticking windows instead of putting them on the home inspection report like other home inspectors.  They have a preinspection program designed to help you sell your house by offering you a discount on the inspection and providing you with multiple copies of the report to give out.  They also put out a just inspected sign in the yard of your Charlotte NC home.  Home Inspection Carolina then sends out a "just inspected" email to their data base.  They like to think of it as a premarketing inspection instead of a prelisting inspection. 

Two new things that Home Inspection Carolina has started doing are home maintenance videos and customer coupons.  They have a large library of home maintenance videos on youtube so they link to these within the appropriate points in the report.  They also have established relationships with many vendors and contractors that allow them to give coupons to their home inspection clients.  The idea is to provide am entertainment book or citi pass book for new homeowners.  These are just some of the benefits of using Home Inspection Carolina.  If you are buying a home near Charlotte NC call them today. 

Home Inspection Carolina

(704) 542-6575

 

What You Need to Know about Masonite Siding

 

There are plus' and minus' to every type of siding.  There is brick , vinyl, hard board, and masonite.  Brick is prbobaly my favorite but it also has draw back.  Masonite has "R" value but if water gets behind it and causes it delaminate and deteriate.  Vinyl has some advantages because you don't have to be painted and doesn't deteriate.  The downside is that there is no "R" value and they they brittle and can crack.  Hardboard is relatively new and the jury is still out on it.  Stucco has "R" valu but is bad about trapping moisture.  Just remember that each type of siding has plus' and minus' 

There are many home inspection companies you can choose from when you need a home inspector in Charlotte NC.  Let me tell you why Home Inspection Carolina is your best choice.  These guys have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  They fix the small things like rubbing doors and sticking windows instead of putting them on the home inspection report like other home inspectors.  They have a preinspection program designed to help you sell your house by offering you a discount on the inspection and providing you with multiple copies of the report to give out.  They also put out a just inspected sign in the yard of your Charlotte NC home.  Home Inspection Carolina then sends out a "just inspected" email to their data base.  They like to think of it as a premarketing inspection instead of a prelisting inspection. 

Two new things that Home Inspection Carolina has started doing are home maintenance videos and customer coupons.  They have a large library of home maintenance videos on youtube so they link to these within the appropriate points in the report.  They also have established relationships with many vendors and contractors that allow them to give coupons to their home inspection clients.  The idea is to provide am entertainment book or citi pass book for new homeowners.  These are just some of the benefits of using Home Inspection Carolina.  If you are buying a home near Charlotte NC call them today. 

Home Inspection Carolina

(704) 542-6575

 

Charltte Home Inspection Revealed Damage Around Chimney

 

Charlotte home inspectors Jonathan Buttery and Preston Sandlin Found some moisture damage around the chimney of the house the inspected in South Charlotte NC.  There had been some leaking around this chimney for quite a while.  The flashing had failed and water had gotten down into the wood.  This will need to be repaired.

There are many home inspection companies you can choose from when you need a home inspector in Charlotte NC.  Let me tell you why Home Inspection Carolina is your best choice.  These guys have over 100 years of combined home inspection and construction experience.  They fix the small things like rubbing doors and sticking windows instead of putting them on the home inspection report like other home inspectors.  They have a preinspection program designed to help you sell your house by offering you a discount on the inspection and providing you with multiple copies of the report to give out.  They also put out a just inspected sign in the yard of your Charlotte NC home.  Home Inspection Carolina then sends out a "just inspected" email to their data base.  They like to think of it as a premarketing inspection instead of a prelisting inspection. 

Two new things that Home Inspection Carolina has started doing are home maintenance videos and customer coupons.  They have a large library of home maintenance videos on youtube so they link to these within the appropriate points in the report.  They also have established relationships with many vendors and contractors that allow them to give coupons to their home inspection clients.  The idea is to provide am entertainment book or citi pass book for new homeowners.  These are just some of the benefits of using Home Inspection Carolina.  If you are buying a home near Charlotte NC call them today. 

Home Inspection Carolina

(704) 542-6575

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Finds Termites Under the Deck

Charlotte home inspector Preston Sandlin was inspecting a home in Weddington NC when he found active termites in a stump underneath the rear deck.  The space under the deck is considered part of the crawl space.  If you have a deck be sure to keep it free of wood and debris including firewood.  Also if you add a deck be sure to remove trees and stumps like the one you see in this picture.  Unfortuanately this home owner did not rmove this stump out from under the deck and now they will be faced with a rather expensive termite treatmeant  after the home inspection.

 

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Reveals Termites in Sealed Crawl Spaces

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Charlotte Home Inspector Scott Walker was inspecting a 4 year old home Friday with a sealed crawl space when he found active termites coming up behind the walls of the insulation of the foundation wall.  Normally termite treatements involve trenching treating an rodding the inner and outer foundation walls as well as drilling and treating each of the piers with hollow voids.  The problem with the sealed crawl are that this type of treatment now becomes impossible without taking down some of the plastic compromising the sealing.

With that being said I have to say I am a big fan of sealed crawl spaces.  I have seen hopelessly wet moldy crawl spaces transformed to dry clean safe crawl clean enough to eat off of.  Also being a home inspector I would much rather crawl a sealed crawl space much rather than one that was not.  There is a downside to the sealed crawl space though.  If they get termites it become very hard to treat but it is possible.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Large Snake Found on Charlotte Home Inspection

Charlotte home inspector Chip Sprague got quite a surprized when he did his inspection off Rocky River Rd today near Concord NC.  He was performing his normal routine checking along the crawl space foundation wall when out pops this large king snake who was not to happy to have an intruder in his crawl space.  Chip said after he regained his composure to get his camera out and take a picture the snake was about 7ft long and about 2-3 inches in diameter at his thickest.  Chip said "You know that thing they alows say about them being more afraid of you then you are of them?  Well that's a lie"  The potential buyers say they are not moving forward on this deal until Critter Control has come out and freed the crawl space of any and all snakes and screens are put on the crawl space vents.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector

 

Charlotte Home Inspector Reveals that Termite Sheilds Do Not Work

Charlotte home inspector Preston Sandlin has been in over 20000 crawl spaces.  He has seen a lot in his over 15 years of being a home inspector in Charlotte NC.  He has seen damage to crawl spaces and crazy repairs.  By far the most damage done to crawl spaces is done by water and termites.  Termites come from the ground and have to return to the ground for moisture.  There are several ways or attempts to stop termites.  Some work and some don't.  On theing that they used to use back in the 1950's and 1960's is the termite sheild.  The termite sheild was this sheet metal sheild that went over the top of the foundation.  It was thought that the termites tunneling up from the ground would hit the sheild and then stop.  It was a nice idea but it didn't work.  Termite will either find the seam or just tunnel around the sheild like they did in this picture here.  If you need a termite inspection or a home inspection and are considering moving to Charlotte, Waxhaw, Monroe, Gastonia, or Lake Norman give Home Inspection Carolina a try.

Preston Sandlin and Home Inspection Carolina have providing thorough quality home inspections in the Charlotte NC area for over 15 years.  Preston has a masters’ degree in Education and has taught Home Inspection classes for years.  He also is a certified infrared thermographer.  Home Inspection Carolina has  been on TV many times and has a Charlotte Home Inspector radio show .  So you are in need of a home inspection in Charlotte NC, Gastonia NC, Weddington NC, Mooresville NC, Fort Mill SC or Rock Hill SC call Home Inspection Carolina (704) 542-6575.

 

Preston Sandlin

Home Inspection Carolina

Ask the Charlotte Inspector