Common Defects

With common issues it's typically a matter of a relatively simple fix to correct the issue, however left alone some of these issues could result in easily avoidable larger issues down the road. While conducting my home inspection I feel it's my job to not only identify these issues but to give my client advice on how to properly maintain their home. Feel free to share any issues you identify on a regular basis. These are some of the most common issues/defects I've found in homes in my area ranging from safety concerns to general maintenance.

Caulk deteriorated at tub/wall. Missing downspout extension.

Gutter full of debris. Insulation in contact with B vent.

Soffit vent painted over. Exposed wires in attic.

Sharp screw in dead front cover. Obstructed condensing unit.

Silicon Caulk Application

How to replace silicone caulk.

Water Heater Maintenance

How To Prevent Termites

Although termites are more common in older homes, termite control can even be a problem in brand new homes. When builders clear trees from a site to build new homes, the termites can migrate to the wood stored on the site. A concrete slab or brick construction is no guarantee that termites will not eventually invade a home because termites can work their way up through the ground into minuscule cracks in the concrete

Downspout Extensions

This should have been added to my Common Issues Blog being one of the most common installations. While installing downspouts so they terminate above the roof surface isn't a "defect" I always recommend routing downspouts to the gutter...

Dryer Vent Safety

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).

Electrical Safety

Electricity is an essential part of our lives. However, it has the potential to cause great harm. Electrical systems will function almost indefinitely, if properly installed and not overloaded or physically abused. Electrical fires in our homes claim the lives of 485 Americans each year and injure 2,305 more. Some of these fires are caused by electrical system failures and appliance defects, but many more are caused by the misuse and poor maintenance of electrical appliances, incorrectly installed wiring, and overloaded circuits and extension cords. Some safety tips to remember:

Environmental Concerns (Asbestos)

The Ancient Greeks named the mineral asbestos, meaning inextinguishable. Apparently even the Greeks were aware of the harmful properties in asbestos and the effects of breathing asbestos dust. The Greek geographer Strabo and the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder mentioned a sickness common with workers who created cloths using asbestos fibers.

Galvanized Steel Plumbing

Where water pressure is poor in the distribution system, the most common cause is corroded galvanized steel. Galvanized plumbing can close down so that the inner diameter is reduced to 1/8” or less. The only solution is to replace the plumbing lines, typically with copper.

High Efficiency Lights

Environmentally friendly lights/Mercury Vapor.

Ice Damming - Roof Leaks

A typical ice-damming event occurs when the heat escapes from the living quarters into the attic and eventually warms the roof deck. The combination of the sun and the interior heat combine to accelerate and exacerbate this process.

Inspect Before Listing

Having a pre-list inspection will give the seller the opportunity to repair or upgrade those items that will no doubt be pointed out during the purchase inspection. Being able to limit the number of items needing attention will increase the marketability of the property being sold.

Radon

Radon, because it is a gas, is able to move though spaces in the soil or fill material around a home's foundation. Michigan homes tend to operate under a negative pressure - this is especially true in the lowest portions of the home and during the heating season.

Sump Pump Operation

Sump pumps are self-activating electrical pumps that protect homes from moisture intrusion and are very common in Southeastern Michigan homes. They are usually installed below basement or crawlspace floors to remove rising groundwater and surface runoff before it has a chance to seep into the home.

TPR Vales and Discharge Piping

TPR (temperature pressure relief) valves are safety devices installed on water heating appliances such as boilers and domestic water supply heaters. TPRs are designed to automatically release water in the event that pressure or temperature in the water tank exceeds safe levels.

Aging in Place

"Aging in place" is the phenomenon describing senior citizens' ability to live independently in their homes for as long as possible. Those who age in place will not have to move from their present residence in order to secure necessary support services in response to their changing needs.

Ash Tree Enemy

Damage to Ash trees throughout the United States.

Bats in the attic

Bat guano can build up in attics and eaves that have been used by bats, and even if the human occupants of the building are not aware of the dung, they may be harmed by it.

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Providing certified home inspection services in Canton Michigan, Metro Detroit MI, Plymouth MI, Novi Michigan, Livonia MI, Westland MI, Dearborn MI, Including Wayne County, Washtenaw County, Oakland County, Monroe County. StepByStep Home Services can inspect your home at a reasonable price for home inspection. Professionally trained and certified Michigan Home Inspector. Home inspection before buying a house is one of the most important things to do before buying your house.

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