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Moisture Problems: Causes, detection, and solutions. 11/03/2025

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  Moisture Problems: Causes, detection, and solutions. Moisture may seem harmless at first—just a little water spot on the ceiling or a musty smell in the basement. But behind the scenes, it can be one of the most destructive forces in a home. Left unchecked, moisture can lead to mold, structural damage, pest infestations, and even health issues. I recently taught a class on this topic, and it’s something I take seriously as a home inspector. Here’s what every homeowner (and homebuyer) needs to know about moisture: how it gets in, how to detect it, and what you can do about it. Common Causes of Moisture Problems There are many ways moisture can sneak into a home. Some of the most common include: Roof leaks from missing shingles, damaged flashing, or poor ventilation Plumbing leaks under sinks, behind walls, or in crawlspaces Improper grading or landscaping that directs water toward the foundation Condensation due to poor ventilation, especially in bathrooms and kitchens Faulty wind...
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Identifying Structural Issues: Early signs to look for.10/27/2025

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  Identifying Structural Issues: Early signs to look for. When I think about structural issues, my mind often drifts to ancient architecture. Some of those buildings have stood for thousands of years—crafted without modern tools—yet they’ve survived the test of time. It’s a reminder that when something is built right, it lasts. Recently, someone at my current church asked me what I know about structural concerns. I gave a small chuckle and said, “A little.” The truth is, I’ve spent a lot of time studying how buildings carry loads, how cantilevers work, and what makes a structure sound. All of it has helped me become a better home inspector. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize the difference between hiring a seasoned inspector and someone who’s just doing the job for a quick buck. As a service to the church, I offered to do a full inspection and presented a professional report outlining my findings. And as always, if I ever spot something that’s beyond my scope, I refer it to a...
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Common Issues and Fixes 10/20/2025

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  Common Issues and Fixes As a home inspector, I’ve walked through thousands of properties and seen just about everything—from the small quirks to major red flags. Some issues pop up more often than others: clogged or poorly sloped gutters, electrical panels with double-tapped breakers, leaks under kitchen or bathroom sinks, and landscaping that’s creeping a little too close to the foundation. I’ve also seen garage doors that don’t reverse when they should, attic accesses that were never finished properly, and enough DIY “fixes” to write a book. The list really is endless—but what sets you apart from the crowd isn’t whether or not your home has issues. It's your response to them. What makes a real difference is your willingness to either build the skills to fix things yourself or surround yourself with the right people who have them. Common Issues Around the Home—and What You Can Do About Them 1. Gutters Clogged or Improperly Sloped  The Issue: Water overflows or drains toward...
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DIY Inspection Checklists: Empowering homeowners. 10-13-2025

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  DIY Inspection Checklists: Empowering homeowners. As a homeowner, knowledge is your first line of defense. While nothing replaces a professional home inspection, there’s a lot you can do yourself to keep your home in top shape and catch potential problems early. That’s where a DIY inspection checklist comes in. Why DIY Inspections Matter Routine DIY inspections give you peace of mind and can save you money by identifying issues before they become costly repairs. They also help you understand how your home functions, making you a more confident and proactive homeowner. Whether you just moved in or have lived in your home for years, setting aside time each season to inspect key areas can go a long way. DIY Home Inspection Checklist: Key Areas to Review 🏠 Exterior Roof: Check for missing shingles, sagging spots, and signs of water intrusion. Gutters/Downspouts: Ensure they’re securely attached and draining away from the home. Foundation: Look for cracks, signs of settling, or water...
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Long-Term Home Maintenance Planning: Creating a schedule. 10/6/2025

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  Maintenance Plan: Creating a schedule. As someone who has taught Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University, I’ve seen firsthand how financial chaos can creep in—not from lavish vacations or bad investments—but from unexpected expenses. One of the biggest culprits? Home maintenance neglect. Your home is likely your largest investment. Just like budgeting helps manage your money, a home maintenance schedule helps you protect that investment and avoid surprise costs. Why Plan Home Maintenance? Neglecting small tasks like replacing an AC filter or cleaning your gutters can lead to major issues down the road—issues that come with major price tags. A little planning now can save thousands later. When you treat your home like a financial asset—and not just a place to live—you start to make smarter decisions. Here’s how to create a long-term home maintenance schedule that aligns with your budget and keeps your house in great shape. Monthly Tasks Replace HVAC filters: Clean air, better eff...
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Loud Noises? 09/22/2025

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  Loud Noises? If you live near train tracks, you know how disruptive a train whistle can be—especially at night. Unlike steady traffic noise, a train whistle is sharp, high-pitched, and unpredictable, which makes it harder to ignore. While it’s nearly impossible to block every sound completely, you can dramatically reduce the noise that reaches your bedroom by targeting weak points in your home’s structure and using smart soundproofing strategies. 1. Start with Windows and Doors Windows and doors are the most common entry points for outside noise because they’re thinner and less insulated than walls. Install window inserts: A custom-made acrylic or laminated glass insert fits inside your existing window frame, creating a sealed air gap. This is one of the most effective and cost-friendly solutions compared to replacing the entire window. Apply acoustic sealant: Use an acoustic caulk to seal small cracks and gaps around the window and door frames. Even tiny air leaks can let sound ...
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Post-Purchase Inspections: What new homeowners should do. 9/29/2025

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  Post-Purchase Inspections: What new homeowners should do. Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but once the keys are in hand, the real work begins. After a home inspection, this is where the good inspectors shine—and the not-so-good ones shine even brighter. Let me explain. The Difference Between a Good and a Not-So-Good Inspection A seasoned home inspector—one who has been around and knows what to look for—will identify issues that the naked eye won’t catch. These inspectors understand construction, materials, and common failure points in a home, ensuring buyers are fully informed about potential concerns. On the other hand, a less experienced or lower-quality inspector may only identify surface-level problems, missing hidden defects that could turn into costly repairs. This is why hiring a trusted and knowledgeable home inspector is crucial. Turning Your Inspection Report Into an Action Plan If you had a thorough inspection before purchasing, you now have a detailed report o...
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