Welcome to Quick views
These are quick and simple looks at different aspects of buildings and home inspection. We have combed the Net and plucked out information that is of interest. It is not a comprehensive discussion, just something to whet your curiosity. Some of it is our own thoughts while is from a lot of smart people on the web.
Blog Posts
A Very Quick View of Post and Beam Construction
First impressions are important. Post and Beam is extremely dramatic and impressive. This Quick View introduces some of the basic components and a quick view of some typical defects found in older structures. This subject is rich in history and craftsmanship and deserves more than just a cursory glance. But you have to start someplace.
Asbestos, Vermiculite, and Lead
For New York State licensed home inspectors this subject is outside our Standards of Practice. It requires a specialized license. But if a Home Inspector suspects there may be an issue, they may recommend that a further inspection be made. This is a sensitive topic, This Quick View’s goal is to give you a taste of how complicated it may be and that buying an older home, that may need renovation, may also have to include a review by a licensed & qualified specialist. Consider all the facts, consider all the sources of information, and make the best decision you can.
Driveways, is There More to Know?
We drive on them, some folks play basketball on them, some use them as a chalk board. But how does a surface that is subjected to all kinds of stress survive? What if It is just gravel? What if asphalt is not the way I want to go? Read on…..
Steam Boilers, Hot Water Coils & Underground Oil Tanks – A Quick View
You cannot get away from them. They sit hunkered down in the basement and simply refuse to quit. Steam boilers have been here since they invented volcanoes. But like those volcanoes some boilers also make hot water. So, if you buy a house with one consider this quick view. On the other hand, buried oil tanks have had their day and if you get one, be careful and insure it is in sound condition. If not, get rid of it properly and responsibly.
Water Water Every Where but Where Does it Come From?
We turn the tap and fill our glasses. But your home inspector says you have a well. Do you care? Should I care? In this Quick View we have compiled a sketch different wells, their pumps, and other factors that may impact you and the quality of your water.
Wood Shingles? Or Are They Shakes?
tShingle or Shake, they are not the same thing. Yet when they age, they share a number of characteristics. What happens when repairs are no longer possible? Are there substitutes? This brief compilation begins to give you an idea of what to look for and where to look for other ideas.
Yikes… I have a Septic System Now What?
Its ok. Lots of people have one. This is a very brief discussion about them, what is in them, and more importantly how do you care for them. West Virginia University put together this excellent study. If you want even more detail, check out our webpage in “Our Library”