Watch where you put your feet...

I always climb through the attics. This area of a home is rarely accessed and therefore deserves proper attention. The first thing a home inspector should do when climbing into the attic is knock. It is considered rude to any ghostly guest who may inhabit the space to climb up uninvited.*

Once in the attic, you want to pay close attention to where you step. The bottom chord of the truss, often a 2x4, is the best place to stand but is generally covered with insulation. I tend to use the tension web (braces) when I can. If you misplace your foot - you can fall through the ceiling. This is considered to not be a good thing and should be avoided.

                                

There are many components inspected in the attic. I often find that the insulation is deficient in areas. Here in Tallahassee we are in climate zone 2. It is recommended that 10-12 inches of blown insulation be applied to create an R value of 38. More is always good. Your Blue Bear Tallahassee Home Inspector measures the insulation and includes pictures in your report. Areas which are lacking are pictured and included as well when applicable.

I do not recommend you climb in the attic. Leave this to the home inspectors and paranormal. Give me a call if you have any questions or want me to climb in your attic and peek around!

*Disclaimer - your Blue Bear Tallahassee Home Inspector does not inspect for ghosts.

Thomas Ailstock, CPI - FL# HI9155

Blue Bear Home Inspection, LLC

Tallahassee Home Inspector

Dedicated to providing the Best Service Possible

Water: A Home's Greatest Enemy

Water does terrible things to a home if not controlled. From roof covering material, slope, gutters, drains, and ground slope, the design and functionality of many of your home's components has one main objective - shed water.

Often it is the little things that do minor amounts of damage overtime which cause the greatest damage over the long haul. These are usually chronic issues which can be mitigated, with a little know-how (and probably a ladder too). The best offense is a good defense! Here are a couple  concerns to keep a keen eye out for:

Leaves on the roof:

Big problem when they are captured in a valley. Leaves hold moisture and prevent the roofing material from drying well. Remember - moisture (water) is the enemy.

Poor roof drainage: 

Next time it rains (and is not lightning), go outside and take a look at where the water is going? Do the downspouts shed the water away from the home? Does the flower bed next to the home hold water? Where is the water going? The water should move away from the home!

There are many other areas to observe such as the roofing material, flashing, crickets, chase covers, chimneys, attic, and crawlspaces. These areas and others are better suited for your local Blue Bear Home Inspector to inspect on your behalf. Remember, water is good for you, good for the fish, and good for the plants - but it is a home's greatest enemy.

Thomas Ailstock, CPI - FL# HI9155

Blue Bear Home Inspection, LLC

Tallahassee Home Inspector

Dedicated to providing the Best Service Possible