Summer is a busy time for home inspectors, and for good reason. During this season, the real estate market is as hot as the temperatures outdoors. While summer brings more business and opportunities to showcase your expertise, it also presents unique challenges. Warmer weather can reveal issues in houses that aren’t apparent during the colder months. Let’s delve into the impact of summer heat on homes and what inspectors might look for and find.
The Impact of Summer on a Home’s Exterior
Warping and Fading of Siding and Roofing
Summer heat and intense sunlight can warp and fade home exteriors, including siding and roofing. Inspectors should check for signs of warping in vinyl siding and fading of painted surfaces. Roofing materials, especially asphalt shingles, can suffer from heat-induced brittleness and color fading. Inspectors will identify these issues and recommend necessary repairs and maintenance.
Damage to Deck Materials
Decks are highly susceptible to damage from prolonged sun exposure. Wooden decks can warp, crack, or fade under intense heat. Look for signs of splintering, discoloration, and deterioration.
Composite decking, while more resistant, might also show signs of wear and tear. Regular maintenance and sealing of wood decks are crucial to prolong the life of deck materials.
The Impact of Summer Storms on Homes
Drainage Issues
Summer storms can lead to destructive water damage if a home’s drainage system is inadequate. Check for signs of poor drainage, such as water pooling around the foundation, yard erosion, and moisture in the basement.
Ensuring proper gutter and downspout function is also essential to prevent water damage. If it rains during the inspection, observe how water moves through the gutters. Verify that water flows out of the downspouts and away from the foundation instead of overflowing from the sides of the gutters.
Damage to Roofing and Siding
Summer storms can cause immediate damage to roofing and siding. Check for loose or missing shingles, dented metal roofing, water leaking into the attic, and damaged siding. Prompt identification and repair of these issues will help prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Air Conditioning System: A Critical Component in Summer
Assessing AC Unit Performance
The air conditioning system is vital in most areas during summer. Inspectors should ensure the AC unit is functioning efficiently. Check the refrigerant levels, inspect the condenser and evaporator coils for dirt and debris, and verify the thermostat is operating correctly. Poor performance indicates needed maintenance or replacement.
Signs of Wear and Tear
Look for signs of wear and tear in the AC system, such as unusual noises, frequent cycling, and insufficient cooling. These issues lead to higher energy bills and ineffective cooling. Recommending regular maintenance helps homeowners stay comfortable and avoid expensive repairs.
Common Pests in Summer Inspections
Dealing with Snakes and Spiders
Summer heat often brings out various pests that inspectors may encounter. Snakes and spiders are common in many areas and pose risks during inspections. Inspectors should be vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especialin attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Using protective gear and taking necessary precautions helps keep you safe on the job.
Other Summer Pests
Inspectors may also encounter other pests like ants, termites, and rodents, especially during summer. Signs of infestations include droppings, nests, and damage to wood structures. Identifying and addressing these issues early can preveve damage and support the home’s integrity.
Additional Summer Heat Damage
Cracking and Peeling Paint
Heat can cause exterior paint to crack and peel, compromising the home’s appearance and protection. Inspectors should check for these signs and recommend repainting or touch-ups as needed to protect the house from the elements.
Expansion of Building Materials
Building materials like wood and metal can expand in extreme heat, leading to structural issues. Inspectors should look for gaps in joints, cracks in walls, and misaligned doors and windows. These issues should be addressed to maintain the home’s structural integrity.
Safety Tips for Inspecting in the Heat
Staying Hydrated and Cool
When inspecting homes in the summer, take special safety precautions. Staying hydrated, taking regular breaks, and wearing lightweight, breathable clothing will help keep you more comfortable in extreme heat. Using sunscreen and protective gear is also essential.
Being Aware of Heat-Related Illnesses
Understanding the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke is crucial. Pay attention to symptoms like dizziness, excessive sweating, and confusion. Taking immediate action and seeking medical help can prevent severe and lasting health issues.
Summer heat takes a toll on building components and poses challenges for home inspectors. By understanding what to look for and taking appropriate precautions, inspectors can continue to inspect homes thoroughly and comfortably during the hottest season.
The Impact of Summer on Homes: FAQs
How can homeowners protect their home’s exterior from summer heat?
Regular maintenance, including repainting, sealing decks, and replacing missing or damaged roof shingles, can help protect your home’s exterior.
What should I do if I find pests during an inspection?
Keep a safe distance from the animal to avoid being bitten. Identify the type of pest and note if there is an active infestation. If there is an infestation, document the damage and recommend a professional pest control service to address the issue.
How often should homeowners have their air conditioning systems inspected?
It’s recommended to have your AC system inspected and serviced annually to ensure optimal performance.