The most common roofing material in America is the classic asphalt shingle. But even they have variations that you might not know about. Pan out for a wider view and you’ll find a wide range of roofing in so many colors and designs that it boggles the mind. Some materials are only suitable in specific…
DetailsSome homeowners think it’s a trend. Other homeowners don’t know how they’d live without it. Hydronic home heating systems can warm a whole house or just the coldest part of a floor. As a certified home inspector, you might only find hydronic systems in a few homes here and there. Learn how they tick now…
DetailsDefects and material defects aren’t necessarily the same thing to a certified home inspector. Generally, inspectors focus on locating material defects. But what’s the difference, and does it matter? Defects mean something isn’t as it should be. It’s broken. It’s damaged. It’s defective. But a material defect takes the idea one step further. It refers…
DetailsStucco has taken a lot of hits over the past decade or so, but it’s still in the running as a preferred home cladding. Applied the right way using proper materials and with skilled hands, it can protect a home from the elements for many years. The problems started to emerge with exterior insulation and…
DetailsProbably, most of the homes you inspect will be sound, secure and healthy within reason. But every once in a while, you’ll inspect a house with lurking hazards. Home buyers and other customers will hire you to tell it to them straight. If there’s a problem, they’ll want to know about it. While you look…
DetailsOnline home inspection training is both convenient and challenging. Retention rates are lower for online courses than for brick-and-mortar classrooms but that doesn’t have to be your story. The problem isn’t necessarily with the digital space but in a lack of realistic preparation. Some new students think online study is easier. That’s not the case.…
DetailsWould you buy a house sight unseen? Some people do. Even with a home inspection to spot defects before closing, living in another state or across the country makes the buying process riskier. That’s why a certified home inspector is so important to the process. If you want to expand your services, market your business…
DetailsIs there treasure in the attic? Cutting-edge wiring in an unassuming older home? What about a hidden room that’s tucked under a staircase? A certified home inspector sometimes finds the most unusual things on the job. Here are 3 surprises, both good and bad, that you might miss on the initial walk-through but your inspector…
DetailsIt’s a time of sweeping industry changes for home inspectors in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Until recently, there was a choice about whether or not to get certified. Beginning July 1, certification will be virtually a non-issue as everyone will need a license. Virginia home inspector continuing professional education or CPE is part of that…
DetailsIce dams are only a problem in winter, but summer is a great time to educate your customers and the public about risks and prevention. No one wants to climb into an attic or work outside when the weather is frigid. But now it’s warm enough to do something about the insulation and ventilation issues…
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