Fall Home Maintenance Tips

, , ,

Home maintenance is the best thing you can do to avoid costly surprises (and prevent items from showing up on your home inspection report). Fall is an excellent time to take care of the little things that can make a big difference for you and your home. The majority of our tips can be handled rather easily by most homeowners, but it’s worth the expense even if you choose to have a professional take care of them. Below are 6 fall home maintenance tips provided by Bold City Home Inspections.

 

1. Fertilize Your Lawn

It’s important to prep your lawn for fall and winter. Roots are still active during this time, even though growth has slowed. Applying fertilizer can prevent winter damage and help your lawn turn green faster when spring arrives. Watering during the fall season is still important and helps your lawn recover from the stress of summer and gain strength for the upcoming winter.

green grass with water droplets home inspectors jacksonville fl

2. Check and Test Your Smoke Detectors

Fall is a great time to test your smoke detectors. Smoke detector batteries should be replaced twice a year. “Chirping” noises emitted from smoke detectors typically indicate that batteries need replacing.

What many people don’t realize is that the smoke detector’s date of manufacture should also be checked. Smoke detectors that are at, or greater than 10 years of age should be replaced. Checking the manufacture date can be achieved by removing the detector and looking on the back of the device for a sticker that contains the date.

an assortment of smoke detectors home inspectors jacksonville fl

3. Change Your HVAC Filters

HVAC filters should be checked monthly and cleaned or replaced, as needed, throughout the year. If checking the filter has slipped your mind lately, now is the time to give it a look. A clean air filter is important to ensure that the HVAC system is running efficiently. It can also reduce energy costs and help maintain healthy air quality for you and your family.

dirty hvac filter on tile floor home inspectors jacksonville fl

4. Inspect Gutters and Downspouts

You may have noticed leaves starting to accumulate on the ground around your home. What you may not have noticed are the leaves that have accumulated in your gutters. Leaves and debris in the gutters can cause them to overflow and allow water to accumulate at the building foundation. Keeping your gutters free and clear of debris will allow water to drain properly. You should also inspect your downspouts to make sure there are no obstructions that can interfere with water drainage. A plumber’s snake can be a great tool for pulling debris out of clogged downspouts.

gutters clogged with leaves home inspectors jacksonville fl

5. Inspect Your Fireplace

Inspecting a fireplace can be a messy job. It’s best to wear old clothes, a dust mask or respirator and safety glasses. Test the damper to make sure it opens, closes and seals properly. Open the damper and shine a flashlight into the flue to make sure it’s free of debris or other obstructions. Metal flue liners should be clean and free of any damage. Check the firebox for cracked or missing bricks and mortar. This can allow excessive heat to transfer through the cracks to the metal shell (box) and to the wood framing.

If your fireplace hasn’t been cleaned in a while, it’s a good idea to order a professional inspection and cleaning.

cracked firebox panel home inspectors jacksonville fl

6. Seal Air Leaks

Check around your home’s exterior for gaps between siding and trim, around windows and doors, and where pipes and wires enter the home. Install weather stripping or caulking at these areas, as needed, to prevent drafts, moisture intrusion and wasted energy.

door gap needs sealing home inspectors jacksonville fl

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

/by

5 Expensive Home Repairs You May Need to Prepare For

, , ,

 

As an adult, one of the main goals in most people’s lives is to own their own home. Unfortunately, the expenses of owning a home do not stop with the mortgage and bills. Things can (and will) break, and unexpected repairs can sometimes set you back financially. That is why it’s important to have a budget and money set aside for home repairs. Repairing issues in a timely manner will help maintain or even increase the value of your home. Below are five expensive home repairs that you may need to prepare for.

1. Foundation Repair

A foundation holds the house above ground, keeps out moisture, insulates against the cold and resists movement of the earth around it. Maintaining a home’s foundation is vital to the structural integrity of the house itself. Foundation repairs can be very costly.

Water pooling in your basement, sloping floors and doors that don’t fit their frames can all be signs of a foundation problem. The best way to prevent foundation issues from occurring is to keep water away from your foundation walls. Keep your gutters and downspouts free and clear of debris to ensure proper drainage. Proper grading is also critical, meaning the ground around the foundation should slope away from the house.

2. Roof Repair

The roof protects you and your home from the elements. If your roof show signs of leakage, or is missing shingles, it’s important to act fast. Roof repairs can add up quickly.
Having a professional home inspector inspect your roof periodically is a good way to stay on top of potential roof problems. A good timeline for inspection is 10 years after your home was built, or roof was installed, and every 3-5 years thereafter. You can also do your own inspection to see if there are any water stains on your interior ceilings, which could mean a leaky roof.

3. Termite Damage

Termites in your home can cause a lot of damage. Unaddressed termite problems can make your home an unsafe environment to live in. Getting rid of them and repairing any damage they may have caused can be very expensive.

If you see any mud-like tubes that line your walls in an irregular pattern, or hollow, decayed wood inside your house, this may be a sign that you have termites. It is best to immediately call your local exterminators at the first sign of termite problem. To keep termites away from your home, remove any dead trees and any other deadwood around your house. Seal gaps around exterior penetrations such as water and gas lines, as these can serve as access points for termites. Try to reduce wood to ground contact wherever possible.

4. Water Damage

Water damage in your home can be very costly. Not only can it cause structural damage, but it can also cause health problems, since water damage can lead to mold growth.
If you see signs of water damage you should address the problem quickly. Water stains, musty odors and mold are tell-tale signs that there may be a water issue. To prevent water damage to your house you should keep your gutters clear and free of debris and fix any known leaks right away.

5. Septic Tank Repair

A septic tank that is not working can be a big, stinky problem. The average cost of repair for this type of issue is around $1,500.

If your toilets and drains are clogged or backing up, your drains are draining very slowly, or if you have smelly, standing water near the septic tank, then you may have septic problems. The best thing to do is to call a professional. Don’t put repairs off. Have your tank pumped every 3-5 years to help prevent problems from occurring.

 

This guest post (originally published here) is brought to you by: Payment1.com

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

Schedule My Inspection Get My FREE Quote
/by

Renovate Your Home Without Breaking the Bank

, , ,

 

Home renovation tips to save you money

Home improvement can be costly. Renovating a space that is less than 1,000 square feet can cost up to $18,000. Improving an older home can cost even more, especially if the plumbing, wiring, and other features are not up to current standards. If you are working around a certain budget for home improvement, careful research and planning, as well as creativity and resourcefulness, can come in handy.

Before setting a budget for home renovation, consider how you are financing your home. Whether you are paying in cash, taking out a loan, or applying for credit, your budget for home improvement must be well within your remaining funds every month.

Here are a few tips on renovating and styling your home while still working within a budget:

Declutter first

The first thing that you want to do is clean up. Throw away, donate, or sell things that you no longer need. Whether you want to do it Marie Kondo style and pick out which items spark joy and which don’t, or go by the good old rule that states if you haven’t used it for more than 6 months, it’s time to let it go. Decluttering enables you to better visualize how you are going to rearrange your furniture and store your belongings. Plus, you can gain a few bucks by selling some of the items you’ve decided to let go.

Do your own demo

You can save a few dollars and reduce labor costs by doing the demolition yourself. If the demo doesn’t require expertise (such as removing a cabinet or pulling up a tile) consider doing it yourself, rather than hiring someone. Proceed with caution and care to avoid potential injuries.

Buy your own fixtures and finishes

Contractors usually charge an hourly fee to do the shopping for you. They may also add a mark-up to the price. Be clear with them that you want to do it yourself.

Shop for sales

Not everything needs to be brand new. You can save a lot by taking the time to look for used and refurbished items on the market. This can significantly reduce costs for appliances and finishes. You may also want to consider restoring or upcycling some of your furniture instead of replacing it. For example, instead of buying a new sofa, you can update your vintage one with a new fabric or a more modern upholstery.

Paint it yourself

Having a room painted by a professional can cost up to $300. Painting is easy and only requires basic knowledge on how to apply coats. Most of the work is in the preparation. Do some research if you don’t have a lot of experience in painting.

Decorate

Use traditional decorations such as candles and mats that don’t cost much to enhance the overall look of your house. Spruce up rooms with on-trend curtains or blinds. Stylish rugs need not be expensive either. There are companies that allow you to create your own carpet and rug design for less than you might expect. You don’t have to spend a lot for your house to look luxurious.

 

This guest post (originally published here) is brought to you by: Payment1.com

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

Schedule My Inspection Get My FREE Quote
/by

Top 20 Home Inspection Blogs

, , ,

 

Bold City Home Inspections is honored to be named one of the “Top 20 Home Inspection Blogs and Websites To Follow in 2019” by Feedspot.com. Details from their website:

Selected one of The Best Home Inspection Blogs from thousands of Home Inspection blogs on the web using search and social metrics. Subscribe to these websites because they are actively working to educate, inspire, and empower their readers with frequent updates and high-quality information.

These blogs are ranked based on following criteria:

  • Google reputation and Google search ranking
  • Influence and popularity on Facebook, twitter and other social media sites
  • Quality and consistency of posts
  • Feedspot’s editorial team and expert review

We are very honored to be recognized in this group! We strive to create valuable, high-quality content for our readers about home inspections and home related topics. You can see the full list at this link.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

Schedule My Inspection Get My FREE Quote
/by

Smoke Detectors in the Home

, , ,

 

Fire safety for you and your family

Properly installed and functioning smoke alarms may be the cheapest, easiest and most effective means for protecting your family and home from a fire. Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan. During a fire, smoke spreads very quickly, and smoke alarms can provide you valuable time to get out of the home. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, three out of four in-home fire deaths occur in homes without a working smoke alarm. In house fires where the smoke alarms did not sound, it was discovered that half of the alarms had missing or disconnected batteries. This article was created to provide information about the importance of working smoke alarms.

Fire safety facts
  • A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire
  • Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level. Smoke alarms should be connected so when one sounds, they all sound. Most homes do not have this level of protection, but it is recommended
  • Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms
Safety Tips
  • Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom. They should also be outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.
  • Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
  • It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
  • Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
  • Replace batteries in all of your smoke alarms (both hard-wired and battery-operated) at least once a year, or when the alarm chirps, indicating a low battery.
  • Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology including multi-sensing, which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined.
  • Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
  • A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
  • People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
  • Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

 

Smoke Detection Technologies

The two most commonly recognized smoke detection technologies are ionization smoke detection and photoelectric smoke detection.

Ionization smoke alarms are generally more responsive to flaming fires. When smoke enters the chamber of an ionization alarm, it disrupts the flow of ions, thus reducing the flow of elctricity. When the flow of electricity is reduced, the alarm goes off.

Photoelectric smoke alarms are generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering. Photoelectric-type alarms aim a light source into a sensing chamber at an angle away from the sensor. As smoke enters the detector, the smoke particles interrupt the light beam, scattering it in several directions. Some of the light scatters toward the sensor, and when light hits the sensor, the alarm goes off.

There are smoke alarms available that are both photoelectric and ionization.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

Schedule My Inspection Get My FREE Quote
/by

The Costs of Moving You Might Have Missed

, , ,

 

According to statistics, the average person will move approximately 11 times in their lifetime. Whether you are moving from one state to another, or just one neighborhood over, the process will always be costly. From obvious things like hiring movers to paying rent, moving involves a lot of expenses. Often, however, there are small things that are overlooked that should be included in your moving budget. Here are some other expenses you should take into account so you don’t end up short on cash.

 

Packing materials

You can either hire movers to pack your belongings or do it yourself. Either way, it will cost you money. If you’re DIY-ing it, you’ll need to buy materials like cardboard boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, etc, and these expenses tend to add up.

Broken things

Broken or damaged items are sometimes unavoidable during the moving process. For example, your furniture or appliances may get scuffed or destroyed. Depending on the damage, you’ll need to either replace them or have them fixed. Repairing or replacing small items may not be too costly, but big-ticket items can blow your budget completely.

Security deposit

Many people assume that they will get their security deposit back from their landlord. If you’ve lived in a place for a long time, you may not notice any damage you have done. A landlord’s discerning eye can pick out these damages and cite them as reasons to keep your security deposit.

Start-up costs

Whether you are buying or renting, there are miscellaneous fees that need to be factored into your budget. If you are buying  a home, things like a down payment and closing costs should be considered. If you are renting, then security deposits, application fees, and pet deposits should be factored into your expenses.

Stair fees

Movers may charge stair fees if you are moving to or from a building that has no elevators, or if the elevator happens to be out of order on the day of your move. Moving heavy things up and down a flight of stairs is not easy, so expect to get charged extra if your building doesn’t offer the convenience of an elevator.

Unforeseen circumstances

Things don’t always go according to plan. You may find yourself needing to check in to a hotel or motel for the night because of unexpected circumstances. Maybe your pet needs boarding if they are older or have anxiety. Whatever the case may be, unexpected things can happen that may end up costing you more money.

 

It’s important that you do your research, set an inclusive and comprehensive budget for moving and plan for unexpected situations. If you don’t want to get stuck, or end up spending part of your savings (which may be for travel or retirement) then you need to prepare well for your move. It’s always a good idea to have a bit extra left over than to be left on a deficit.

 

This guest post (originally published here) is brought to you by: Payment1.com

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

Schedule My Inspection Get My FREE Quote
/by

Hazards in the Kitchen

, , ,

 

Anti-tip brackets on freestanding ranges

During our home inspections, we often come across freestanding ranges that do not have an anti-tip bracket installed. What is an anti-tip bracket, you may ask? It’s an important safety feature that prevents the oven from tipping over when weight is applied to an open door. A tipping range can scald, crush or burn anyone caught beneath it. Anti-tip brackets became required by appliance manufacturers in 1991.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 32 reported fatalities involving falling appliances between 2000 and 2016. For these 32 deaths, 14 fatalities were children; 14 were seniors; and 4 were adults. For appliances, the stove category included the largest number of fatalities (22 deaths). This is why it is very important for home inspectors to check for, and report on missing anti-tip brackets.

missing anti-tip brackets found during a northeast florida home inspection

If we come across a missing anti-tip bracket during one of our home inspections, we always recommend them to be installed. There are a few ways to determine if an anti-tip bracket is present:

Visual Inspection Method

We can sometimes look behind the range to see if the rear leg is attached to a fork-shaped device that should also be attached to the wall or floor. Furthermore, we can sometimes verify the presence of an anti-tip bracket by removing the bottom drawer from the range and checking the rear legs.

Tip Inspection Method

First we remove all items from the top and inside of the range. Next, we grab the back of the range and carefully pull it towards towards us. The range should not tip more than 4 inches if the bracket is installed. Do not tip the range more than 4 inches from the wall, as it could tip over and cause injury.

Don’t panic if your home inspection report reveals that no anti-tip bracket is installed! It’s an easy, inexpensive repair. Anti-tip brackets can be purchased from most hardware stores or ordered directly from the manufacturer. If you purchased a new home and your home inspection report revealed a missing anti-tip bracket, contact your builder to have one installed.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

Schedule My Inspection Get My FREE Quote
/by

Home Inspection Tips for Sellers

, ,

 

Preparing for your home inspection

A home inspection can be a stressful time in the selling process. Wondering what the home inspector will find can be nerve-wracking. Relax! No home is perfect. Buyers want to know exactly what is wrong with their future home, just as you will when you purchase your next home. Follow the tips below to make sure your home inspection goes as smoothly possible.

Turn all utilities on.

The home inspector will be testing appliances, running water, making sure lights and outlets work, etc. during the inspection. Utilities (gas, water, electricity) will need to be turned on in order to conduct a proper inspection. Having these utilities turned on will not only save time during the inspection, but can also avoid a re-inspection, which may include an additional fee.

Repair items before the home inspection.

Schedule repair for any known items or concerns before the date of the inspection. Don’t cross your fingers and hope that the inspector will miss the issue. Even minor things can show up on the home inspection report. It is better to fix items on your own terms than to negotiate with buyers about repairs. Something you think is a minor issue may be an important item to the buyer.

123456
missing in use cover found during a northeast florida home inspection
improper panel screw found during a northeast florida home inspection
damaged hvac insulation found during a northeast florida home inspection
dirty air filter from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl
old smoke detector from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl
missing sealant from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

Allow the home inspector time to do their job.

Standing over the home inspector’s shoulder is not going to help with the inspection. Allow the inspector time and space to do their job. Most home inspections will take 2 to 4 hours on-site depending on the size of the home. Older homes and larger homes can add time to the inspection. Additional services, such as a pool or crawl space inspection, can also add time.

The buyer and buyer’s agent usually attend the home inspection. Buyers can sometimes feel uncomfortable if the seller is present during the inspection. This is their time to get a feel for the home and take any measurements, notes, etc, that they may need. The home inspector will also point out important items like electrical disconnects and main water shutoff valves to the prospective buyer.

Consider a pre-listing home inspection.

Scheduling a pre-listing inspection can save you money, lead to a faster close and give you a competitive edge in the market. Waiting on the buyer’s inspection report can add stress and anxiety to the sale process. Items noted in the buyer’s inspection report will need to be repaired by licensed contractors. Pre-listing home inspections can eliminate stress and allow you to get ahead of any issues that may need to be resolved.

Prepare yourself and the home.

Become familiar with common items found during a home inspection. This can help you prepare for your inspection. Simple fixes go a long way. Below are some items that can easily be checked and corrected prior to your inspection:

Exterior
  • Cut back any vegetation (shrubs, bushes, etc.) that is close-to or in-contact with your home. There should be a minimum of 6 inches between siding and vegetation
  • Make sure there is at least 4-6 inches between the ground and the bottom of any siding materials
  • Replace or refresh deteriorated caulking at areas such as: around windows and doors, or material intersections
  • Check siding and trim for damage and repair as needed
  • Inspect sprinkler heads to make sure they are functioning and aimed properly (not spraying the home). Check for any damage and verify settings at the system control panel
Roof
  • Clear any debris from the roof surface
  • Make sure gutters are free and clear of debris
  • Inspect gutters and downspouts for damage and repair as needed
  • Repair any damaged or missing shingles. Proper repair is key. A home inspector will note any substandard repairs
Garage
  • Test the garage door auto-reverse photo sensors to make sure they are aligned and functioning
  • Open and close the garage door to make sure it operates smoothly
Electrical
  • Test all lights and replace bulbs or fixtures as needed
  • Make sure batteries for any fixture remote controls are fresh
  • Test smoke detectors and replace any that are 10 years or older
Plumbing
  • Check for leaks under sinks and cabinets and make repairs as needed
  • Tighten loose toilets and replace any deteriorated caulking
  • Look for leaks or water staining around your water heater
  • Replace or refresh deteriorated caulking or grout at areas such as: shower and tub surrounds, plumbing fixtures and countertop/wall intersections
  • Ensure that sinks and tubs drain quickly
HVAC
  • Check your air filter and replace if dirty
  • Run the system to make sure that it is heating and cooling
Interior
  • Test all doors and windows to make sure they are functioning properly and open/close/lock easily
  • Install window screens that may have been removed for cleaning

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

Schedule My Inspection Get My FREE Quote
/by

Common Home Inspection Findings in June 2019

, ,

 

What do Home Inspectors Look For?

Each month we list our common home inspection findings from the homes we inspected in and around Jacksonville, FL. Most of the items are simple, inexpensive fixes that can be corrected before the home inspection. Fixing these items ahead of time can reduce the last minute back-and-forth negotiations between buyers and sellers.

 

1. Weatherproof In-Use Covers

Exterior receptacles should be GFCI protected and have weatherproof in-use covers installed. Missing covers are a potential shock hazard if water enters receptacle slots. These can be purchased from your local hardware store and are typically an easy repair.

2. Insulation at the HVAC Condensor

We see damaged or missing insulation at the HVAC condensor all the time. This may result in reduced efficiency and increased energy costs. This is a simple, inexpensive repair that can go a long way.

3. Anti-tip Brackets at Range/Oven

An anti-tip bracket prevents the range from tipping forward when weight is applied to the open door, such as if a small child climbed on it. Anti-tip brackets are safety devices that should be installed to eliminate a safety hazard.

4. Improper Screw (Electric Panel Cover)

We often find that screws holding the service panel dead front cover in place are a pointed, course-thread type. Blunt, fine-thread screws are required for this purpose so that wiring inside the panel is not punctured and/or damaged.

5. Damaged Lead Flashing

Lead flashing at plumbing vents on the roof are often damaged or improperly installed. Rain water may flow between the pipe and the flashing, which can result in leaks. These should be repaired or replaced by a licensed roofing contractor.

Can I Fail a Home Inspection?

Simply put, no. A home inspection is a visual examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, and it is not a code-compliance inspection. Home inspectors do not pass or fail a home, but instead report on the home’s overall condition and point out any systems or components that may need repair or replacement.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

/by

Life Expectancy of Home Components

, , ,

 

Estimated Life Expectancy of Home Components (Florida Edition)

As a homeowner, do you ever wonder things like “How long will my roof last?” or “When will I need to replace my HVAC unit?” No matter the age of your home, things are bound to need repair and/or replacement at some point during your ownership. To take some of the guesswork out of exactly when certain systems or components will need to be replaced, we’ve compiled a chart that details the predicted life expectancy of Florida-based household materials and components.

Adhesives, Caulk & PaintYears
Caulk (Exterior)1 – 3
Caulk (Interior)5 – 8
Paint (Exterior)5 +
Roofing Adhesives/Cements8 +
Sealants5
Stains2 – 6

Surface preparation and paint quality are the most important determinants of a paint’s life expectancy. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can shorten life expectancy, especially in coastal regions that experience a lot of sunshine and heat, as well as wind-driven rain. Additionally, conditions of high humidity indoors or outdoors can affect the lifespan of these components, which is why they should be maintained seasonally.

AppliancesYears
Dishwasher9
Disposal12
Dryer (clothes)13
Freezer10 – 20
Gas Oven10 – 18
Microwave Oven9
Range / Oven Hood14
Range (Electric)13 – 15
Range (Gas)15 – 17
Refrigerator9 – 13
Washing Machine5 – 15

Appliance life expectancy depends to a great extent on the use it receives. Furthermore, consumers often replace appliances long before they become worn out due to changes in styling, technology and consumer preferences.

CountertopsYears
Concrete50
Cultured Marble20
Natural Stone100 +
Laminate20 – 30
Resin10 +
Tile100 +
Wood100 +

Natural stone countertops, which are less expensive than they were just a few years ago, are becoming more popular, and one can expect them to last a lifetime. Cultured marble countertops have a shorter life expectancy, however.

DecksYears
Deck Planks10
Composite8 – 15
Structural Wood5 – 20

Decks are exposed to a wide range of conditions in different climates, from wind and hail in some areas, to relatively consistent, dry weather in others.

Doors (Exterior)Years
Fiberglass100 +
Fire-Rated Steel100 +
Vinyl10
Wood30 +

Exterior fiberglass, steel and wood doors will last as long as the house, while vinyl and screen doors have a shorter life expectancy. The gaskets/weatherstripping of exterior doors may have to be replaced every 5 to 8 years.

FlooringYears
All Wood Floors100 +
Bamboo100 +
Carpet8 – 10
Concrete50 +
Engineered Wood50 +
Exotic Wood100 +
Granite100 +
Laminate15 – 25
Linoleum25
Slate100
Terrazzo75 +
Tile75 – 100
Vinyl25

Flooring life is dependent on maintenance and the amount of foot traffic the floor endures.

HVACYears
Air Conditioner (Central)10 – 15
Condensing Unit8 – 12 (coastal areas) 10 – 15 (inland)
Ducting60 – 100
Gas Fireplace15 – 25
Air Handler15 – 20
Thermostats35

Thermostats may last 35 years but they are usually replaced before they fail due to technological improvements.

InsulationYears
Batts / Rolls100 +
Cellulose100 +
Fiberglass100 +
Foamboard100 +
Loose-Fill100 +
Rock Wool100 +

As long as they are not punctured, cut or burned, and are kept dry and away from UV rays, cellulose, fiberglass and foam insulation materials will last a lifetime. This is true regardless of whether they were installed as loose-fill, housewrap or batts/rolls.

Plumbing, Fixtures & FaucetsYears
ABS and PVC Waste Pipe50 – 80
Cast-Iron Waste Pipe (above ground)40
Cast-Iron Waste Pipe (below ground)50 – 60
Fiberglass Bathtub and Shower20
Instant (on-demand) Water Heater10
PEX40
Plastic Water Lines75
Toilet Tank Components5
Toilets, Bidets and Urinals100 + (if not cracked)
Water Heater (conventional)8 – 12
Water Line (Copper)50 – 75
Water Line (Plastic)50 – 75
Water Softener20

The quality of plumbing fixtures varies dramatically. The mineral content of water can shorten the life expectancy of water heaters and clog shower heads. Also, some finishes may require special maintenance with approved cleaning agents per the manufacturers in order to last their expected service lives.

RoofingYears
Asphalt Shingles (3-tab)10 – 15
Asphalt Shingles (Architectural)15 – 20
BUR (Built-Up Roofing)10 – 12
Clay / Concrete80 +
Fiber Cement18
Metal17 – 20
Modified Bitumen10 – 12
Slate50 +
TPO10 – 12
Wood25

The life of a roof depends on local weather conditions, building and design, material quality, and adequate maintenance. Hot climates drastically reduce asphalt shingle life. Roofs in areas that experience severe weather, such as hail, tornadoes and/or hurricanes may also experience a shorter-than-normal lifespan overall or may incur isolated damage that requires repair in order to ensure the service life of the surrounding roofing materials.

WindowsYears
Aluminum / Aluminum-Clad10 – 15
Double-Pane5 – 15
Skylights5 – 15
Window Glazing8 +
Vinyl / Fiberglass Windows10 – 30
Wood15 +

Aluminum windows are expected to last between 15 and 20 years, while wooden windows should last nearly 30 years.

Note: Life expectancy varies with usage, weather, installation, maintenance and quality of materials. This list should be used only as a general guideline and not as a guarantee or warranty regarding the performance or life expectancy of any appliance, product, system or component.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

/by