Termites are found in every region of the United States, and certainly in Hackensack Bergen County, NJ where we are based. Several species of termites exist, each feeding on wood for their survival. While termites may serve some beneficial purposes in nature, the pests become a serious problem when they access and then begin destroying your home to find their meals. More than $5 billion is spent by homeowners every year to repair the damage left behind by termites. Be a proactive homeowner and learn the signs of a termite infestation with a qualified WDI inspection before you have to pay thousands to treat the problem.

Hollow or Damaged Wood In The Home

Most NJ homeowners notice the signs of a termite infestation, yet often allow the problem to linger, unaware that it is actually an indication of the pest. One of the most common and obvious signs of an infestation is hollow or damaged wood. Termites make their home deep within the cavities of your home’s structure and eat the cellulose from the inside out. If you notice damaged wood or if it sounds hollow inside when tapped, it may be a termite infestation.

Wood Floor Blistering

When a wooden floor is blistering it can be a sign that subterranean termites are underneath the floor. The termite damages both the subfloor and actual wood floor and is often mistaken for water damage. If the termite infestation that is affecting the floors is not addressed, the floor will eventually fall through.

Termite Wings and Frass

If you find piles of discarded wings around your home, this is a sign of an established termite infestation because it means some of them have swarmed to reproduce and start a new colony. Termites also leave behind frass, which are their droppings that look like tiny coffee beans or sand. If you notice either of these physical signs, do not ignore them and call a termite inspector.

Mud Tubes

Termites build mud tubes to travel from one part of your home to another with protection. This structural evidence of a termite infestation is usually found on foundations or wood structures. They look like tiny brown tunnels, about the width of a pencil.

What To Do If You Spot Signs of Termites

If you notice any of the signs of a termite infestation in your NJ home listed above, it is important to contact a professional termite inspector and treatment company to help resolve the issue before the termites cause further damage. Even without seeing the signs of termites listed above, schedule an annual termite inspection to prevent this common, costly problem.

Rest assured that the cost of a professional termite inspection is worth the expense since it prevents future damage that will cost far more than the inspection. The many available treatments for termites offer the solution that every homeowner seeks, regardless of the severity of the infestation.

Veriguard Home Inspections serves Bergen County and Northern New Jersey with home inspection services including termite inspections. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

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The modern emphasis on home energy efficiency has created an environment in Bergen County, NJ and beyond where the air doesn’t flow nearly as well as it does in older houses. Moisture mixed with poor ventilation and stagnant air can easily encourage the growth of mold and mildew. So, it’s worth reviewing methods to prevent mold in the home.

Mold not only causes structural damage, but it’s also a health hazard in the home. People with lung conditions, certain allergies, or asthma can suffer from the presence of mold. Mold spores will float in the air, land on objects and spread all around a home. Read on to learn more on how to spot mold and then also what can be done to prevent it.

What Is Mold?

Mold is a fungus and it needs moisture to thrive. It can grow on just about anything, including from food to cloth, from wood to wallpaper, and from furnishings to cardboard. Mold colors range from deep blue to brown to yellow and black. The good news is that there are reliable methods for the prevention of mold and possibly its’ natural removal.

The Areas Of A Home To Check for Mold

Look for Excess Moisture

As discussed, mold needs moisture to grow. The methods used to prevent mold in a home include checking for leaky windows, looking for any excess moisture, which can stem from air conditioning vents, and/or excess moisture in the home’s bathrooms. Mold can easily grow on window frames, then spread down a wall, settle into baseboards, and on to hardwood floors or carpeting.

Excess moisture after a shower in the bathroom can seep into drywall and insulation. And because the bathroom is an obvious place for mold growth,they should be well-ventilated. Maybe leave a door or a window open to vent the steam during and after a shower. Remember to wipe down walls, to wipe down window frames, and to wipe doors of any moisture. And check for leaks beneath the bathroom cabinets too!

The Ways to Prevent Mold in the Home

Dehumidifiers

Ideally, the humidity inside a home is maximum 20 to 40 percent. In fact, mold actually needs 60+ percent humidity to establish itself and grow. A dehumidifier will pass air over coils, removing humidity from the air and passing it back along as dry air. Removing the moisture from the air is a standard and effective method for preventing mold in the home. Using fans will also increase ventilation and  serve to supplement a dehumidifier.

Keep it Clean

Thorogh cleaning can rid a home of any existing mold, so it doesn’t have the chance to spread. Throwing away mildewed drapes, shower curtains and carpets will certainly help. If you see mold growing anywhere on surfaces or walls, clean it using bleach and water or a borax solution. Be concerned that there may be a more deep-seated mold issue, and that it may not be safe to try and clean it up. If so, contact this mold inspector to inspect and to follow our recommendations. And we have no conflict of interest, we are a mold inspector AND NOT a mold remediator.

Veriguard Home Inspections offers mold inspections and other home inspection services to Northern New Jersey, including Bergen County, Essex, Passaic, Hudson, Union, and Morris counties.. Contact us to book an appointment.

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Request Repairs

If you decide to request that the seller repair or replace certain components of the home, be specific. Make sure the seller understands the problem. Your home inspection report will help you by providing detailed information about issues found, but it’s best to ask for specific repairs. For example, if your inspector discovered rusted and sagging guttering, request that the guttering be replaced. Otherwise, the seller may opt to repaint and reattach the existing guttering to the home.

Why Should You Order a Re-Inspection of a Home?

Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make. When you’re buying a house you love, you may feel uneasy about the purchase if a major problem is found. If the sales contract provides a contingency for the home inspection, you can ask the seller to make repairs before the sale is final. A re-inspection will confirm that repairs have been completed or the defective components have been replaced.

Re-Inspection of a Home Verifies Quality Work

Ordering a re-inspection ensures that the completed repairs will be assessed by a professional. It’s normal for the seller to want to make as much profit off the sale as possible and they may attempt DIY repairs. A home inspector will re-inspect the property, looking specifically at the improvements that were requested. As the buyer, you’ll have peace of mind that repair work was performed well and reviewed by a home inspector before closing.

Veriguard Home Inspections offers home inspections, including re-inspections, to customers in northern New Jersey. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

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Defects in Newly Built Homes

You don’t expect your new home to need immediate repair work. However, there are areas where inspectors often find defects with new construction, like:

• Grading and drainage problems that can lead to water in the basement and mold growth.
• Breaker panels sometimes have incorrectly-installed wiring.
• Foundation cracks occur from settling.
• Siding might be improperly installed.
• Outlet covers or switch plates may be missing.
• Poorly sealed windows and sliding glass doors decrease energy efficiency.
• Builders may have installed inadequate insulation for the local climate.
• Shingles are sometimes improperly installed or damaged during installation.

Home Inspection on New Construction will Locate Defects

Even though the house and all of its components are brand new, the build may not be perfect. Home construction is hectic. There are different teams working on your home’s structure and systems. This makes it difficult for your builder to monitor even in the best of situations.

Since builders typically outsource work to third-party contractors, it’s not possible to closely oversee the finished work of each team. They have to rely on each contractor’s management team to monitor their own workers. Sometimes, human error or oversight occurs in these situations, which is why it’s important to order a home inspection on new construction.

The home inspector will conduct a thorough examination of every system, structural component, and feature of your new home. He or she will provide a report detailing their findings.

Home Inspection on New Construction: Municipal Inspections

To make sure your home is in great shape, the city or county inspection won’t suffice. It is the municipal inspector’s job to verify the home meets the minimum requirements for habitation; a city inspector’s job does not involve conducting a two- to three-hour inspection. They are there to make sure the minimum building codes are in place.

Avoid Frustration After Moving in

Schedule a home inspection once construction is complete so that the inspector can identify any defects or safety issues before your final walkthrough. Your builder will be responsible for making the repairs and you won’t have to worry about work being done while you’re living in the home.

Order a home inspection so you can settle into your brand new home as seamlessly as possible.

Veriguard Home Inspections provides home inspections on new construction to northern New Jersey. Contact us to request our services.

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How is Thermal Imaging Used in Home Inspections?

Thermal cameras read the temperatures of areas in a room and display the variations in different colors. Warmer hues such as yellow and red indicate warm areas while cooler colors, like blue and purple, represent cooler temperatures. When you hire an inspector who uses a thermal camera, your report will contain infrared images so you can see any areas of concern.

What Can Thermal Imaging Detect?

While thermal imaging can’t help inspectors see through walls, the temperature readings can point to problems that are undetectable with the naked eye. Insulation problems, moisture issues, air drafts, electrical hotspots, and many other deficiencies can be found with thermal imaging.

Electrical Hotspots

Examining electrical components is a part of any home inspection and thermal imaging gives professionals a better idea of what’s going on with that system. Electrical hotpots display as abnormally warm areas. It’s important to take care of these issues immediately since they could pose a fire hazard.

Energy Efficiency Problems

A home’s energy efficiency is only maximized when the house is sealed properly. Thermal cameras help inspectors detect gaps in siding, insufficient insulation, and other vulnerable areas that could contribute to a higher energy bill.

For example, air drafts cause your AC to work overtime in the summer. Warm air will flow in as the cooler air escapes. The same issue persists in the winter and overworks your heater. Thermal imaging in home inspections reveals places where you can improve energy efficiency and save money in the future.

Moisture Problems Can be Found with Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections

Excess moisture is a problem in any household. Fortunately, thermal imaging may be able to catch leaks before they become full-blown disasters. Whether you’ve got a small leak in a plumbing pipe or water seeping through your foundation, thermal imaging displays these areas as unusually cool. Catching these problems early also helps prevent mold growth which is common in places with excess water.

Professionals Who Use Thermal Imaging in Home Inspections

Unfortunately, not every inspector has access to thermal imaging technology. When looking for the best inspector for the job, ask if he or she offers this service. The extra information can go a long way in helping you to understand the condition of your property.

Veriguard Home Inspections provides home inspections to northern New Jersey. Contact us to request our services.

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Have Time for Repairs

The inspector will provide a report detailing any problems or safety issues in your home. Using this list, you can determine which repairs you can do yourself and which ones you need to hire a professional for. There may be some fixes you choose not to complete. Set the price of your home accordingly and the buyer can make the repairs.

If you decide to hire a professional for the work, you’ll have time to request multiple quotes for the job if you haven’t listed the home yet. Waiting for the buyer to request repairs sets you up for a time crunch. The buyer may also request a certain contractor for the work, costing you more than necessary.

Prevents Unexpected Surprises With a Pre-Listing Home Inspection

The sales process may be moving forward smoothly until a surprise issue pops up during the buyer’s inspection. If you have an inspection performed before listing the home, this won’t occur because you’ve likely already addressed any issues. The sale can proceed quickly and easily when you’ve ordered a pre-listing home inspection.

A More Profitable Sale

By making repairs and updates before listing, your home will be more appealing to buyers. Sharing the results of the inspection report gives your buyer confidence in the property, and they may put in a higher offer more quickly. They will also be more likely to offer full asking price or more because they know the house has been well-maintained.

A Pre-Listing Home Inspection Helps Price Your Property Fairly

Pricing your home can feel like guesswork if you’re uncertain of the actual condition of the house. You don’t want to list it too high and risk having it on the market for too long, but you also don’t want to price it so low that you aren’t getting a good return on it. The inspection helps you list your home at an accurate price.

The Benefits of a Pre-Listing Home Inspection

By having a home inspection done before listing the property, you set yourself up for a smooth sale for everyone involved. You will have control over the timing of repairs and the asking price of the property. The benefits of a pre-listing home inspection out-weigh the cost of a professional inspector.

Veriguard Home Inspections offers home inspection services, including pre-listing inspections in northern New Jersey. Contact us to request an appointment.

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There are many reasons why you might want to add value to your home. Maybe you’re planning to sell your house and move somewhere new, or maybe you just want to invest in the future. Check out these home improvement projects that will increase your home’s worth and appeal.

1. Convert an Attic Into a Bedroom

If your house has a sizable attic, convert it into an extra bedroom to add value to your home. Converting your attic can be a big investment, depending on its current state. You may spend thousands of dollars on the remodel, but when you can list your home with an additional bedroom, you’ll recover the costs.

2. Add Value to Your Home With a Basement Remodel

Another way to boost your home’s value is to remodel your basement to create extra space for entertaining guests. Add ambient lighting and a wet bar, which can be as simple as a laminate countertop, to give your basement a pub feel. For a cozy den, mount a TV and fill the space with a couch and some comfortable chairs. You’ve got options, so choose a theme and run with it.

3. Overhaul the Kitchen

A full kitchen remodel isn’t cheap, but it will pay for itself by adding value to your home. The first thing you’ll need to do is replace any outdated appliances, like the refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher. Installing an island will make a kitchen more functional. Even a simple project like adding tile backsplash will make your kitchen more appealing.

4. Bathroom Remodel

An outdated bathroom is a major turn-off for potential buyers. Start by replacing any old faucets, showerheads, and fixtures. If you have a plastic shower surround, upgrading to ceramic or stone tile adds class. Update cabinets and flooring if you have the budget. Though expensive, these updates will draw more buyers to the table.

5. Add Value to Your Home With a New Deck

One final project that will add value to your home is building a deck. This is a relatively inexpensive way to increase the outdoor living space of your home. Homebuyers will offer more for a house with a nice deck where they can see themselves entertaining family and friends.

These five projects are some of the best ways to add value to your home. Keep in mind that the value lies in your home’s condition and visual appeal rather than the size of your home. Sometimes the best way to boost your home’s value is to remodel existing rooms rather than add more space.

Veriguard Home Inspections provides home inspection services to Northern New Jersey. Contact us to request an appointment.

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Water can be destructive to the structure of a home. Leaks cause wooden surfaces to warp and water contributes to mold and mildew growth on fabric, plastic, and tiled surfaces. Long term, undetected water leaks damage concrete slabs and residential foundations. Prevent plumbing leaks to keep water bills in check and reduce expenses related to repairing water damage.

Steps to Help Maintain Home Plumbing Systems

Plumbers offer maintenance services to help keep residential plumbing systems in good condition. Request some of these services to maintain a leak-free property.

Regular Plumbing System Maintenance

One of the best steps to prevent plumbing leaks in the home involves requesting an annual system inspection by a licensed plumber. Your plumber will inspect the current condition of your fixtures and pipes and recommend specific steps to protect your plumbing pipes.

Periodic Drain Cleaning Services Help Prevent Plumbing Leaks

Over time, sludge and debris build up inside drains and drainage pipes. Regular drain cleaning services help control this problem and extend the lifespan of the plumbing system. This service also helps drains empty as rapidly as possible. Drain cleaning services eliminate some obstructions that might cause leaks to develop.

Water Softeners

Hard water containing high levels of dissolved minerals causes deposits to form and can block sewer lines. Install a water softener to help control this problem if you live in an area with high mineral content in the water, any reading over 7 grains of minerals per gallon. Pipe narrowing due to mineral deposits may eventually contribute to plumbing leaks.

Prevent Plumbing Leaks by Repiping

In some cases, a plumber will recommend repiping as the best strategy for avoiding future plumbing leaks. Aging pipes or leak-prone polybutylene pipes may result in frequent plumbing repair bills. Pipe replacement offers a long-term solution to this problem.

A Long-Term Perspective

At some point, even well-maintained residential plumbing systems will develop problems. The lifespan of the system depends upon the type of plumbing materials used and regular maintenance. With proper care, brass, copper, and steel pipes can last well over 50 years.

Veriguard Home Inspections provides home inspections in northern New Jersey. Contact us to request an appointment.

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The Dangers of Wood-Destroying Insects in the Home

When you have wood-destroying insects in the home, the wood materials weaken and ultimately must be replaced. Infestation should be identified and addressed swiftly to avoid significant property damage. Some infestations are easy to identify, but others can only be detected by a wood-destroying organism inspector.

1. Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are larger than typical ants, so you may see them when they are not hidden in your walls. Unlike termites that actually eat wood, carpenter ants burrow into the wood. They create an intricate network of tunnels that weaken the wood and can cause collapse or rapid deterioration.

2. Carpenter Bees

Like carpenter ants, carpenter bees live in tunnels in various types of wood. This is usually wood that is untreated, exposed, or damp. Male carpenter bees are sometimes visible outside of the wood, but female carpenter bees remain in the wood for most of their lifespans. They are smaller than a typical bumblebee and are almost solid black in color.

3. Wood-Boring Beetles

There are several types of wood-boring beetles that can damage your home. In most cases, the adult beetles lay eggs inside the wood. As the larvae hatch in the wood, they begin eating their way to the outside. In the process, they create damaging tunnels that impact the integrity of the wood. These insects live in wood siding, framing and decking materials, fencing, and trees.

Most of the damage caused by wood-destroying insects in the home takes place underneath the surface. Identifying the signs of their presence and damage can be difficult to the untrained eye. Order a wood-destroying organism inspection to learn more about this potential danger to your property.

Veriguard Home Inspections provides Wood-Destroying Insect inspections to homes in Northern New Jersey. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

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Radon is impossible for you to detect through your own senses and it can have potentially fatal consequences. With this in mind, read on to learn more about what radon is, how it gets in your home, and what you can do to reduce your exposure.

Learning About Radon in the Home

Natural gas, carbon monoxide, and other gases enter the home as a result of a man-made cause. For example, you may have left the gas burner turned on after you made your last meal. Radon enters the home naturally and it may be present in high quantities without your knowledge. This is because radon is a clear, odorless gas that is found in ground soil across the country.

In some areas, the problem of radon in the home is more common, but all homes are at risk. This is because radon gas can enter the home directly through cracks in your foundation, drywall, and other materials. In fact, the design of some concrete slab foundations may even pull radon into the home. Also, many homes today are designed to be airtight, so radon levels may increase dramatically over time because the gas cannot escape.

Understanding the Health Risks Associated with Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring gas known to cause cancer. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency states that thousands of individuals die of cancer due to radon exposure each year. Radon specifically causes lung cancer, and it may pose more of a risk to children, older individuals, and smokers. Any radon detected in the home should be properly addressed to reduce your exposure to this gas.

Determining the Best Treatment Option for Radon

Scheduling professional radon testing is the most effective way to determine if radon in the home is a problem for your family. You can take various steps to address a radon problem. For example, if your concrete slab foundation is suctioning radon into your home, you can invest in a sub-slab depressurization system to correct this process. If radon is already inside your home, ventilation efforts must be used to clear the air. This should be completed before you or others re-enter the home.

Radon in the home can be fatal. It is a serious problem that may be harming your home and the health of your family. However, because the gas is clear and odorless, you will need a professional who uses sensitive radon detection equipment to test for radon in the home.

Veriguard Home Inspections provides home inspections and radon testing to Northern New Jersey. Contact us to book your appointment.

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