Tile, Tub, and Shower Pans -
These areas are notorious for leaking. A little known fact
is that grout needs to be sealed, and caulk needs to be
maintained regularly. If this maintenance is not kept up,
damage can occur behind the wall and out of sight. The older
shower pans did not have a waterproof membrane like we use
now, so it is only a matter of time before they will leak.
Once these leak you can have major damage. Even new
installations can and do leak. These leaks can be difficult
to determine in the early stages. Remember you must legally
disclose any defects with your property in writing on the
Sellers Condition Disclosure. Don’t just hide a problem and
then think it doesn’t need disclosing.
Toilets - Toilets are often
not fastened to the floor properly and the wax rings are
leaking. A wax ring that leaked in the past is often the
reason the toilet has not been fastened to the floor in the
first place. The floor may have rotted where the toilet was
bolted down so that when a repair was attempted, there was
nothing solid for the screws to grab. Toilets need to be
firmly secured to the floor with screws or bolts….not caulk.
Inspect your toilet. If you need a new toilet seat you can
pick one up at home depot for about $10-$15. It is simple to
change.
Furnaces - Furnaces need to
be serviced regularly. The same goes for other gas
appliances, which need tune-ups to keep them burning cleanly
and safely. If the basement or garage has been finished,
take into consideration that the combustion air source that
allows your furnace to operate safely may have been
eliminated or reduced significantly. Often the air filter
looks like it hasn't been cleaned in years. This can cause
stress on the system and potential overheating, which can
lead to premature wear on a furnace or even a cracked heat
exchanger.
Roof Leaks - Flashing is a
material used to protect the building wherever there is
penetration through the roofing. It prevents water entry and
is an integral part of the roof system. It is often missing.
Penetrations that are merely tarred or caulked should be
considered temporary repairs that need to be monitored and
maintained. Installing proper flashings is the permanent
fix. Remember the roof is protecting the house.
Stucco - 99.9% of our homes
here in Utah use stucco as the exterior finish. Stucco
cracks. Stucco is not a good product for the Utah climate.
We have extreme summers and winters. These extreme seasons
cause great stress on stucco. In my opinion, stucco is best
suited for warm, dry states like Arizona.
My brother can do it.
Some people truly do have a friend or family member who can
perform an inspection. But even though your brother may have
some building experience he may not have the equipment or
expertise required to do a thorough evaluation of the home.
What if he misses a major problem? Will it create hard
feelings within the family?
I'm in love with this house, so it doesn't matter. So
much in love that you're ignoring problems? An inspector
takes a clinical look at the house. You'll get only the
facts, and that's what you need to make decisions about
going forward with the purchase. If you don't really care
what problems you might run into, go ahead. You're the only
one who can determine how much time, energy and money you
can devote to the house. But keep in mind that an inspection
that uncovers safety issues can help you prioritize repairs.
Pass Your Home
Inspection Part I