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Pillar To Post Newsletter Volume 21, No. 3

Posted on May 12, 2021 by - Post Notes

outdoor patio

HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE

As North America moves closer to
turning the corner on the pandemic,
Pillar To Post remains committed to
providing the highest quality home
inspection while adhering to the
safety and cleanliness guidelines
provided by the CDC and local
governments. We are taking the
following measures with the health
and well-being of our clients in
mind

  • Inspectors are prepared with PPE to keep everyone safe
  • Home Inspection Reports can be presented virtually or printed
  • Your clients can choose not to attend or only attend the last hour of the home inspection
  • Online and/or contactless payment options are available on request

While our processes may have changed, our commitment to ensuring confident home ownership has not. Our job is not complete until you no longer have questions concerning the home you have asked Pillar To Post to inspect.

outdoor patio

MAINTENANCE 101

Your Summer Place

Summer will be here before you know it! Here are a few suggestions for homeowners to get their home in shape and help protect their investment.

  1. Service the air conditioning system to ensure good operation.

  2. Pressure wash decks and patios (carefully!) to remove dirt and grime.

  3. Close the chimney flue to keep insects out and cool air in.

  4. Remove window screens and clean with a soft brush and soapy water, then reinstall.

  5. Make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.

Do a couple of these tasks each weekend and you’ll be ready for summer in no time!

SUMMER SMARTS

Get Splashing!

It’s almost pool season, so use these tips to splash into a safe and fun summer:

  1. Anyone using the pool should know how to swim. An experienced swimmer should always be present if anyone is still learning to swim.

  2. For younger children, an adult should be at the immediate poolside at all times. It is not enough to simply look out a window or door to check on them. Tragically, injuries and drownings can happen within moments.

  3. Enclose the pool with fencing a minimum of 4’ high. Gates should self-close and self-latch, with the latch inaccessible to small children. Local requirements for pool enclosures may be stricter or have additional specifications.

  4. To avoid possible injury, keep children away from pool filters and drains. Walk, don’t run, near the pool to avoid slips and falls.

  5. Keep rescue equipment nearby and easily accessible. For added peace of mind, consider having family members learn CPR skills.

From all of us at Pillar To Post Home Inspectors, enjoy your summer!

pool
fire pit

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Backyard Fire Pits

Thinking of adding a fire pit to enhance your backyard setup? Keep these recommendations in mind if you decide to make the move.

Portable or Permanent?
Portable fire pits are made of metal and should be set on a stable base of pavers, concrete, brick or gravel. Fire pits can be built from a kit, or custom designed to complement your house and landscaping.

Gas or Wood?
Natural gas, propane or wood are the most common fuels for fire pits. Gas fire pits are easy to light and extinguish, but lack the classic crackle and smoke of a wood fire. Before deciding on a wood-fueled fire pit, check to see if your community allows them.

If a fire pit is in your future, keep these safety tips in mind:

  1. Place seating areas a safe distance from the flames, and keep children and pets away
  2. Have a hose or fire extinguisher close by
  3. Avoid wearing loose-fitting sleeves
  4. Never use lighter fluid to light a wood fire
  5. Be sure firewood is seasoned and dry
  6. Periodically check gas connections for leaks or damage

A fire pit can make a great addition to almost any backyard. Enjoy!

HOME SENSE

Don't Throw Money Out The Window

Heating and cooling typically use almost half of the energy in the home. So it makes sense to look at one of the leading causes of energy inefficiency in the home: the windows.

Old and/or poorly constructed windows can mean heat loss in the winter, overheating in the summer, and higher energy bills. The average home may lose up to 30% of its heat or cooling through the windows. Properly installed energy-efficient windows can go a long way toward improving this situation.

Many factors affect a window’s energy efficiency. Whether they are single- or multiple-paned, gas filled, Low-Emittance (Low-E) coated, and even the material of the window frame all contribute to a window’s performance. One excellent resource is efficientwindows.org, which provides detailed information on these specifications and how to select windows appropriate for various climates. An experienced window contractor can also be a good source of information and recommendations.

Homeowners should check with their local utility provider to find out about possible rebates and other incentives for the purchase of new, energy-efficient windows.

Of course, replacing windows is not always a viable option. Making sure existing windows are properly caulked, keeping weather stripping in good repair, and using storm windows will help. Window coverings are another good way to reduce heat loss in winter and avoid overheating in summer.

Improving window energy efficiency means greater comfort as well as cost savings for homeowners in any climate.

Experience the Pillar To Post difference. Schedule your next home inspection today!

Oldies but Goodies: Living With An Older Home

Posted on April 27, 2021 by - News

The charms of living in an older home can be many – history, style, craftsmanship, quirks. But maintenance can be tricky and expensive, especially if certain systems and features have been neglected over the years.

  • Energy inefficiency is probably the number one issue with older homes. New windows can be very expensive, but will contribute immensely to reduced energy use and lower heating and cooling costs. Replacement windows are available in several styles and at different price points, so finding ones that suit the look of an older home is easier than ever.
  • Poor insulation wastes energy and money, and makes living in the home uncomfortable. The most important area to insulate is the attic, but walls and floors above ventilated crawlspaces should also be insulated if possible.
  • Check old water pipes to identify the material and determine if they need to be replaced. Some older materials such as galvanized steel, iron, and even lead are still in use today even though new construction doesn’t allow them. Replacement options include copper and CPVC piping.
  • Outdated electrical systems are often found in older homes and may not only be dangerous, they can make the house uninsurable in some situations. Even if no danger is present, we use much more electricity in our homes today and the capacity of older systems may be inadequate. Only a qualified electrician should attempt any repairs or updates to a home’s electrical system.

With careful maintenance and a nod to history, older homes can be comfortable, stylish, and even energy efficient in the right hands.

SPRING MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST April 2021

Posted on March 24, 2021 by - News

Spring

APRIL 2021

SPRING MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Spring is the perfect opportunity for homeowners to prepare their property for the months to come. Here are our top tips to get started:

  • Check siding for cracks, peeling or chipped paint, and general wear and tear. Have damaged areas repaired and repainted as needed for lasting protection.
  • Clean gutters and downspouts of debris that collected over the winter.
  • Check patios and walkways for cracks and any loose bricks or pavers. These are a tripping hazard that needs to be corrected promptly.
  • Clean window screens and repair any holes or tears, or replace the screen material.
  • Check around for damaged tree limbs and branches. If a large tree appears to be damaged, be safe and call a professional to address any issues.
  • Inspect the irrigation system for broken sprinkler heads and emitters. Also check for overspray and adjust the system to prevent water waste.

Happy spring to everyone from Pillar To Post Home Inspectors!

Pillar To Post Newsletter Volume 21, No. 2

Posted on March 10, 2021 by - News

Pillar To Post blog post
logo

postnotes

NEWS AND INFORMATION

VOLUME 21, NO. 2

HEALTH & SAFETY UPDATE

ppe

During this time of Covid-19, Pillar To Post remains committed to providing the highest quality home inspection while adhering to the safety and cleanliness guidelines provided by the CDC and local governments. We are taking the following measures with the health and well-being of our clients in mind:

  • Inspectors are prepared with PPE to keep everyone safe
  • Home Inspection Reports can be presented virtually or printed
  • Your clients can choose not to attend or only attend the last hour of the home inspection
  • Online and/or contactless payment options available on request

While our processes may have changed, our commitment to ensuring confident home ownership has not. Our job is not complete until you no longer have questions concerning the home you have asked Pillar To Post to inspect.

backyard in springtime

AROUND THE HOUSE

Spring Maintenance Tips

Ah, spring – it’s almost here! Here are our top suggestions on how to get your home ready for the months ahead.

  • Clean gutters and downspouts of debris.
  • Check walkways and patios for cracks and any loose bricks or pavers and have them repaired.
  • Walk around and look for damaged tree limbs and branches. Have a qualified professional address any big problems.
  • Check the caulk around windows and doors and correct any problems.
  • Inspect wood, stucco and other types of siding and have damaged areas repaired and repainted for lasting protection.
  • Fix tears or holes in window screens and clean them before reinstalling.

Remember, keeping your home in good condition also helps protect your investment!

Young woman washes the vegetables in domestic kitchen

HOME SMARTS

How’s Your Home’s Water Quality?

Water quality in the home is concerning to many homeowners. While municipal supplies are rigorously tested and monitored, certain conditions in the home can affect water quality after it’s delivered from the water main.

  • Galvanized pipes are not uncommon in older homes. They are usually corroded and should be replaced. They can rust away from the inside out, causing leaks and water damage. They can also trap contamination from old lead service lines.
  • Whenever possible, replace pipes and fixtures containing lead with new materials.
  • Filtration systems can effectively reduce many environmental contaminants. Options include faucet or pitcher filters, plumbed, and reverse-osmosis filters that treat the entire home’s water supply.
  • Other contaminants that don’t affect health may adversely alter water taste, odor, and/or color.
  • Well maintenance should be on a regular schedule and the water tested regularly for safety and quality.

PERSONAL BEST

S-T-R-E-T-C-H
For Health And Comfort

Starting your day with a short stretching routine can go a long way toward shaping how you’ll feel for the rest of the day, and will help with your range of motion. Look online for specific stretches that suit your level of flexibility, then follow these basic guidelines to prevent injury, courtesy of the Mayo Clinic.

  1. Warm up with at least 5 minutes of light activity.
  2. Stretch gently and slowly, without bouncing.
  3. Be sure to breathe through your stretches – don’t hold your breath.
  4. Hold each stretch for about 30 seconds on each side
    to the point of a slight pull.
  5. Be sure to exercise both sides of your body for equal flexibility.

Talk with your doctor about which stretches are best for you if you have an existing injury or other health conditions. Now get out there and give it your best!

stretching

MATERIAL WORLD

Q & A: Countertops

With so many countertop materials available, it’s no wonder homeowners have a lot of questions. Here we answer some common queries.

Q: What’s the difference between quartzite and quartz?

Quartzite is an all-natural material that’s mined and cut into slabs. Hard and durable, it can handle cookware straight out of the oven. Quartzite is available mostly in shades of white or gray and has a slightly grainy feel. Quartzite needs to be sealed yearly to provide stain resistance and antibacterial protection. It’s also more expensive than quartz.

Quartz is manufactured from ground quartzite mixed with resins and color pigments, and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit any kitchen. While it is durable, hot cookware can scorch it. It’s easier to maintain than quartzite because it never needs to be sealed.

kitchen

Q: I love the look of marble but I know there are downsides. Tell me more.

Marble is gorgeous, we agree! Each slab is unique, with the veining in different types ranging from bold to subtle. It’s heat resistant, too.

Yes, there are caveats. Marble is expensive and prone to scratching and chipping, and acidic foods like lemon or wine can etch the polished surface. It’s high maintenance, too, needing resealing as often as twice a year.

kitchen

Q: What’s great about natural granite?

Almost everything. Much more durable than marble, it’s heat resistant and available in a range of colors. Granite is porous, but is stain resistant with proper sealing. Resealing is usually required far less frequently than other natural stone options.

Q: What about wood?

Nothing rivals the warm, organic look and feel of wood countertops. They’re made from a number of hardwood species. While wood is obviously not as hard as solid countertops, shallow scratches can be sanded out and the wood re-oiled.

Alternatively, some homeowners opt to install just a section of wood countertop, such as butcher block for food preparation, while choosing another material for the rest of the counters.

Whichever type of surface you choose, be sure to bring home samples so you can see colors and patterns in your home’s lighting conditions and judge how well they work with your cabinet and wall colors.

Experience the Pillar To Post Difference. Schedule your next home inspection today!