How would you operate this valve in an emergency? Oh...and its leaking too!

Now, this is fairly important since the valve is supposed to be readily operable in case an “urgent” situation were to arise such as coming home to a flooded house because of a broken water pipe. In that scenario, one would want to be able to go directly to the valve and turn the water “Off”…..RIGHT NOW! Not only was this particular valve nor readily operable…it was leaking too as can be seen by the stains on the wall below the valve.

Most often, these valves are mounted in a dedicated box intended for the purpose.

We recommended to our client that the valve should be re-configured, by a licensed plumber, to allow it to be readily accessible, that the leakage be repaired, and that it be ensured that no damage had been caused to the wall components by the leakage.

One just never knows what one might find in an inspected home……

Should you be in need of a thorough Home Inspection by a professional Raleigh Inspector, then give us a call today to schedule…We can be reached at 919.848.4833 or you can Schedule Online right here on our website.

Raleigh Home Inspector Loves the Fair!

It’s an annual “happenin’” for myself and my family…deep fried Oreos, roasted corn, eclairs to die for, and simply the best dang London Broil sammiches on the planet…that’s what I’m talkin’ about! This year, I hear they’re going to have Chocolate Covered Bacon; I’m not sure I know what that’s all about…we’ll have to take a “wait and see” attitude on that one!

Of course, the livestock exhibitions are always interesting…and there are always the pig races. Being a geek for things related to homes, construction, and things related to the trades, there is always the brick-laying and electrical wiring apprentice competitions…..and those guys do some really good work!

You might want to consider attending on a day that, by default, will benefit others….There is a Military Appreciation Day, Senior Day, and the Food Lion Hunger Relief Day…..

Get on out to the North Carolina State fairgrounds for the quintessential North Carolina event that appeals to the masses. The fair runs for a full ten days…opening on October 14 and closing on October 24…. Go HERE for general info and schedules of events.

If you are in need of a top-of-the-line, professional Home Inspection by an experienced and dedicated Raleigh Home Inspector, then visit our website at www.qriquality.com or give us a call at 919.848.4833 .

Leaking Ice-Maker Line and Resulting Mold Growth

In this instance, the leakage had maintained the surrounding area in a saturated condition and there was obvious visible mold growth present. Likely, some degree of damage to materials was also present inside the wall; those materials could not be directly observed without some destructive evaluation.

We advised our client that destructive evaluation should be under-taken, to any extent necessary to ensure no damage to hidden materials or components had occurred, and that any damage be repaired. We also advised that any visible fungal/microbial growth should be thoroughly cleaned from all affected areas in accordance with recommendations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Of course, the leakage that caused the issue should be repaired by a licensed plumber.

Don’t let someone else’s problems become your problems. Have your home inspected by a professional Home Inspector before you buy the home because…You just never know what conditions might be present!

Raleigh Home Inspection Discovers Off-Center Loading of Front Porch Posts

Unfortunately,this structural deficiency is one that we observe from time to time. Our client was initially surprised and dismayed as to how that could happen…being that the home was brand new, had “passed” all of its inspections by the local municipality, and had received its Certificate of Occupancy. While we couldn’t precisely answer that particular question, we did recommend in our report that the condition be corrected by the builder and it was ultimately corrected in a satisfactory manner prior to our clients taking possession of the home.

Our client was happy and pleased that they chose to have Quality Residential Inspections perform their Home Inspection and that we were so effectively able to protect their best interest. Had they not been informed of the condition, by us, they might have been responsible for corrective repairs sometime in the future.

It is worthy of note that the home actually “inspected” quite well…and was, overall, a quite nicely constructed home. It was simply a framing configuration that had been improperly implemented and that no one (not the framing contractor, not the builder, not the Building Department inspector) noticed the defect prior to our inspection.

This serves as an example of why you should obtain a professional Home Inspection on any home that you are considering purchasing…even though it may be a “brand new” home.

Call the Raleigh Home Inspector today at 919.848.4833 to schedule your Home Inspection or go HERE to schedule your Home Inspection online.

Coming up in just less than two weeks…Saturday September 10 & Sunday September 11

If there’s one thing that revs the engine of this Raleigh Home Inspector, it’s Blues done well…. With concerts from the legendary Buddy Guy, how can it be anything but done well? There will be performances by Bettye LaVette, The Wild Magnolias, Ruthie Foster, Melva Houston, Mel Melton & The Wicked Mojos, …..whew…..

At the Durham CBC Plaza, there will be outdoor performances by the Hell Camino Blues Band, the Fat Bastard Blues Band, and a host of others. What could be better than sittin’ out in your lawn chair under a clear sky (hopefully and prayerfully) watching and listening to these Blues monsters do their thing.

Visit the Bull Durham Blues official website for information…and do make your plans to attend. It’s gonna be gooood!

IF you happen to be in need of a professional Home Inspection, contact Quality Residential Inspections today at 919.848.4833 or schedule your Inspection HERE.

As a Raleigh Home Inspection firm, a common defect that we observe during the performance of a Home Inspection is defective GFCI devices. GFCI is short for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. What we often find is that they are simply not properly functional or that they have been physically damaged in some way.

A GFCI device is typically a receptacle mounted in a wall box…or a breaker mounted in a primary distribution sub-panel or at a main service panel…and both have integral test and re-set buttons.

GFCI Receptacle - Installed

GFCI devices help protect people in the event that people, water, and electricity might happen to get together for a party all at the same time….not really an ideal combination. They function as safety devices by sensing an increase in the flow of electric current as little as 5 milliamps (five one thousandth of an Amp)…and shutting off the power at that location or at all locations downstream of the device. To provide an example for reference, as little as 1 amp can be fatal depending on voltage and other conditions. You can think of the device as “shutting off” the power if it senses a “leak” of electricity…what we refer to as a ground fault.

GFCI Breaker - Installed In A Distribuiton Panel

Basically, the devices operate by comparing the amount of electricity going in on the black, or “hot” wire….and comparing that to the amount of electricity is leaving on the white…or “neutral” wire. If there is any significant difference, then the electricity is “leaking” somewhere. If the leak is the result of electricity coursing through your body…then the GFCI device may not have prevented you from being shocked but it likely prevented you from being electrocuted. Electricity is like allot of people….it will follow the path of least resistance…so if you come in contact with any of that “leaky” electricity and provide less resistance than the wires do….then it would rather follow your path than the intended path along the wiring. Put another way…the person may be a better route to ground for the electricity because they are less insulated.

In most areas, GFCI protection is required, generally, for bathroom outlets, for exterior outlets, at kitchen area outlets, and for whirlpool tub motor circuits. Other required locations might be at outlets near swimming pools. Very generally speaking, GFCI protection has been required for exterior receptacles since 1973, for bathroom receptacle since 1975, for garage receptacles since 1978, and at some kitchen receptacles since 1987.

We often get asked during a Home Inspection “Well you just told me that this receptacle is GFCI protected…but there isn’t any test button at that receptacle…Why is that?” And a good question it is. There are various methodologies and configurations to provide the intended protection…we could install a GFCI receptacle at every location where protection is required…but that wouldn’t be economically practical. Or we can install one GFCI receptacle to protect an entire circuit or series of receptacles. Or we could install a GFCI breaker at an electrical panel to provide the desired protection for an entire circuit. Whether GFCI receptacle or GFCI breakers are installed, it is recommended that the devices be manually tested every 30 days or so to ensure that they are properly responsive; this is accomplished by depressing the integral test button and then either re-setting the receptacle or returning the breaker to its “On” position.

Another question that is often posed by our Home Inspection clients is “Can I install GFCI’s in an older house?”. Usually, with regards to this discussion, an older home would be one that was initially wired using 2-conductor wiring…and where there is no third “ground” wire. The simple answer is yes you can although it likely will not be quite as safe or effective as a device installed on a 3-conductor circuit where there is a direct path to ground through the electrical panel. It is probably safe to say that a 2-conductor circuit protected by a GFCI device is likely more safe than one without any such protection.

If you have GFCI devices installed in your home, then go test them to make sure they working properly. If none are installed, then consider having them installed by a licensed electrician to enhance the safety of your home.

Most people don’t give much though to gutters. As a Raleigh Home Inspector and the owner of a Raleigh Home Inspection firm in North Carolina, I give thought to them most every day. Either there are gutters installed on a home or there aren’t…It’s one of the very first observations I make when I arrive at a property to perform a Home Inspection. And here’s the thing…in the vast majority of instances where there are no gutters installed to control all that roof run-off water, the home exhibits some deficiency or deterioration as a direct result. Why is that?

When no gutters are installed, then all of that wonderful, beautiful, life-giving substance that we know to be water falls onto the roof, runs off of the roof, and is deposited immediately onto the ground next to the foundation…or onto other surfaces such as patios or driveways. This is where the troubles begin.

Too much water adjacent to a foundation can have potentially disastrous results. Uncontrolled grade and roof run-off water can make its way into crawl spaces and that excessive moisture can lead directly to decay of wood structural components like floor joists and support beams. It can also lead directly to conditions that are conducive to the growth of fungal growth…mold and mildew and other such nasty undesirables that can, and often are, associated with health issues.

And the adverse effect of water on buildings isn’t limited to those home constructed on crawl space foundations. Homes constructed on basements are especially vulnerable…in the first place, who wants a wet basement? But excess water on the exterior side of a basement foundation wall can be more than simply annoying or uncomfortable…it can lead to serious structural issues as well. When the soil is constantly wet immediately next to the foundation, that wet soil can exert tremendous inward force against the structure as a result of a phenomenon called hydrostatic pressure where the wet soil presses against the exterior of the foundation and dramatically increases the associated lateral loads, or force, applied to the wall. Resulting structural failure can be very technically challenging, and very expensive, to repair. Roof run-off water that splashes onto walkways, driveways, and porches is yet another common problem. That water often splashes up onto the building and causes the decay of wood doors, door trim, siding, and other such components.

Homes constructed using the concrete slab-on-grade methodology aren’t immune either…although the effects of all that water around a slab foundation might not be readily apparent and may not become obvious for some time to come.

One very simple, and relatively inexpensive way to prevent the possibility of these types of issues is to install a gutter system to control the roof run-off water and discharge that water well away from the foundation. I have found that seamless aluminum gutters are the most effective because…(drum roll, please)…they don’t have any seams that can leak. Properly sized seamless gutters, combined with properly sized and extended downspouts, or splash blocks placed on the soil with a positive drainage slope (so the water runs away from the building rather than toward it), will allow for adequate control of the roof run-off water and preclude that water from damaging a home.

Of course, as with most things, there are other related considerations. First, those wonderful gutters that are doing such a magnificent job of protecting your home…they’re going to have to be routinely maintained and kept clear of debris such as leaves and the like. Because in my professional experience, having evaluated many, many thousands of homes, the only thing worse that a home with no gutters installed…is a home with a clogged or failing gutter system installed. Gutters and downspouts that are allowed to become clogged are just as potentially damaging as having none at all. Most gutters are going to overflow during periods of very heavy rainfall…but gutters and downspouts that are allowed to become clogged will overflow during even minimal or moderate rainfall. And that water can damage other wood components like fascia and soffit at the eaves around the home…and that’s while it’s on the way to the ground where it can be detrimental in the ways previously mentioned.

So simple and inexpensive is the installation of gutters and downspouts that I suggest they should be required components for every home ever built. I have often heard home builders say “We don’t use gutters because they look ugly!”. Personally, I’ve never seen a gutter or a downspout that is more ugly than a wet, nasty crawl space…or a rotten piece of wood…or an expensive door that is so rotten it needs to be replaced. And I should point out that most conscientious builders of quality homes do, indeed, install gutter systems on their homes because…(another drum roll, please)…it makes good common sense!

If there aren’t any gutters installed on your valuable home….then I urge you to have them installed by an appropriate professional. If gutters are installed, then go out and give em’ a good look and make sure they are clear of debris and in good working order.

In summary, an effective gutter system, consisting of seamless gutters and extended downspouts that discharge roof run-off water well away from the foundation, is such a positive aspect of a “healthy” home, that it just simply should not be over-looked. It is exceptionally valuable insurance against expensive repairs as a result of water damage. And they’re relatively inexpensive, too. Who doesn’t like that?

Being an animal lover, this Raleigh Home Inspector is all about any program to help out the canines. It is always sad to see a dog chained to a tree. The Coalition to Unchain Dogs is a non-profit, volunteer effort dedicated to improving the welfare of dogs living outdoors on chains. According to their website, they have freed over 500 dogs from their chains…kudos to them for that!

This coming weekend, on Saturday August 28th at 4:00PM at Durham Central Park in Downtown Durham, they are putting on their Music For Fences benefit concert …… go here to go to their website for directions and more information and to get more information.

Also, check out this video… very cool……

Lets help to unchain the canines………

Gary Gentry
Quality Residential Inspections

(ARA) – You love the look of natural wood flooring but are afraid to install hardwood because you know the floor will take a beating from the kids, dogs and the heavy day-to-day traffic all too common in modern family life.

But you don’t have to sacrifice high style looks for boring sensibility when considering a new flooring option in your home – not if you choose laminate, that is.

Today’s best laminates combine the realistic grain and texture of wood with high durability and scratch and indentation resistance that “authentic” wood floors don’t provide, according to Jeff Katz, director – laminate for Tarkett Residential, a leading provider of innovative and sustainable flooring. And not only are today’s laminates available at a fraction of the cost of real wood floors, but they’re right in sync with the latest designs.

“There’s always a new decorating trend around the corner,” Katz says. “It’s imperative for manufacturers to respond to market demand, keeping up with the most up-to-date trends to ensure consumers are getting the latest in style and design, as well as technology.”

One such line is Tarkett’s Trends laminate, a durable new collection featuring eight of the hottest flooring designs, including Old World-inspired antique-stained planks and soft, hand scraped wood grains. Colors and styles in this line will continually rotate out with new introductions to give homeowners the newest, most popular looks in flooring, ultimately providing them with the high style of premium wood floors without the fuss.

“That’s the beauty of laminate products,” Katz says. “They’re the new normal – great-looking products that deliver great performance at a great value.

When shopping for laminate products consumers should look for flooring that is engineered with sturdy inner core board layers – preferably ones that deliver high impact resistance (at least an IC3 rating). This type of rating helps provide excellent indentation resistance, and when combined with highly rated top surface protection (AC3 or better) kids and pets can run and play freely on laminate floors without making a dent or marring up the surface’s good looks. As a result, laminate flooring is so durable versus real wood products that some laminates come with up to a full lifetime warranty.

What’s more, creating a laminate flooring transformation in your home is a relatively simple DIY project. Many of today’s new laminate floors come in easy-to-install planks that simply snap together without the need for messy glue or nails to pound. Laminates can even be used over several types of existing flooring, often eliminating the need for costly sub-floor preparation.

“Consumers now have the choice of selecting laminate floor innovations that provide excellent performance and value, while also reflecting and accommodating their changing tastes,” Katz says. “Laminate flooring solutions keep up with their day-to-day life. That’s something we know will never go out of style.” For more information about the latest trends in laminate flooring, visit www.tarkettna.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

For a Raleigh Home Inspection, call Quality Residential Inspections to schedule today……919.848.4833. We provide Home Inspections, and related ancillary services e.g. Radon testing and water testing, to the greater Triangle region of North Carolina to include Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Wake Forest, Clayton, Garner, and Durham.

This informative article touches on just some of the potential issues and makes suggestions as to how a home can be be made more safe for our aging loved ones.

(ARA) – Most of us start life depending on our parents to take care of us. But as they age, chances are the roles will reverse. And, whether you provide additional help in their own homes – or move aging parents into your home – how do you prepare to meet the new needs of aging adults?

Luckily many simple, quick, affordable – and even stylish and savvy – updates can make homes safer and more enjoyable for you, your family and your parents.

De-clutter
Both kids and older adults have reduced reflexes and balance. Spruce up the look of your home – and avoid tripping hazards – by removing clutter and items you no longer use (especially obstacles in walkways).

Safe, spaaahh shower
Showers can be an enjoyable and luxurious part of anyone’s day – if they are safe. While you probably don’t want to renovate the shower, simple additions of bath safety products can make it safer and more enjoyable. Start by adding rubber grips to the bottom of the shower to avoid slick surfaces. Next, take a seat with a comfortable shower chair and enjoy a shower massage with a multi-function hand held showerhead. Products like the Home Care by Moen shower chair and Hand Held Shower with Innovative Palm Feature are ideal choices at affordable prices to add safety, style and spa enjoyment to the shower.

Save resources, save money
Eco-friendly adjustments not only can make you feel good about preserving natural resources for your family, they can also help lower energy costs (ideal for tight budgets). Simple steps can include replacing standard light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, insulating doors and windows and swapping faucets and showerheads with new water-saving WaterSense-labeled models.

Handy handles
In the course of a day, you grip many objects – from cups and pens, to door knobs and faucet handles. Swapping out door knobs or faucets with knobs for lever-handle models can make these everyday tasks a bit easier – especially for smaller or arthritic hands.

Get a grip
For any age, stairs are a falling hazard in homes – whether it’s one step or 20. To increase safety, add hand rails or decorative hand grips in high-traffic doorways where there may be a step, such as the garage or front entry. Home Care by Moen offers attractive-looking 9-inch grips that install easily and blend in with your decor.

Let there be light
Did you also know that by age 60 the average person requires 15 times more lighting than when they were 10 years old? Brighten up the home with additional reading lamps in bedrooms and family rooms, under-cabinet task lighting in the kitchen, motion-sensor lights near entrances and nightlights in hallways.

Safe and secure
Your home is your safe haven … so make sure it is protected. In the bathroom where slick surfaces can be falling hazards, add functional – yet fashionable – grab bars from Home Care by Moen. And, in case of unforeseen falls or other home accidents, home security systems can give you peace of mind to know that fire-, medical- or emergency-response is available for you and your loved ones at the touch of a button.

Flat flooring
According to the Home Safety Council, falls are the leading cause (66 percent) of all nonfatal home injuries. To help you – or your loved ones – avoid becoming a statistic, remove throw rugs or ensure that they have a non-slip backing to provide more firm footing.

Low-maintenance lawns
With busy lifestyles, it’s tough to keep up landscaping. Making a few modifications to the yard can help ease the burden. Replace large grassy areas that require frequent mowing with rock gardens or mulch beds. Additionally, choose drought-resistant perennial plants and shrubs to save time and money on watering – and ensure you don’t have to plant new each spring.

Be prepared
Are the washer and dryer in the basement? Are the bedroom and bathroom upstairs? Since stairs can be difficult to navigate for children or aging parents, having all the necessities on one floor is ideal. While it may not be in the budget to move everything to the main floor now, gradually start getting ready by wiring a closet or small room for the laundry – or planning to expand a half bath to a full bath.

With a few minor updates, you can breathe easier knowing your home is safer for your loved ones – both young and old. For more information on safety products from Home Care by Moen, visit www.moen.com/homecare.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

The Raleigh Home Inspector wants everyone to be as safe as possible……the health and well-being of our loved ones depends on it!