Andy Chaudoir's Blog

Apple, Active Rain...Somebody - Please Help Me Stop Hating My iPad

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sat, 25 Sep 2010 22:55:00 -0700

In late June I purchased an iPad, a 32 gigabyte 3G model. I figured that I would use it with clients to go over inspection reports and pictures taken during the my Home Inspections.

Now, I must confess, it was kind of a Mother's Day gift to my wife......and a tool for my business. I use it occasionally for looking at inspection photos and have never used it for going over a report even though I could if needed. Looking at the pictures is much more fun that looking at a report.

One of the biggest reasons I bought an iPad is so that I could blog and comment on Active Rain from places more comfy that my desk. Places like the couch, or bed or the occasional coffee shop. That never happens though because I can't.

When using the iPad or iPhone you are not able to comment on blog posts or create a your own blog post. I looked into this after my wallet was $700.00 lighter. I found some information online that explained the problem. Apparently the iPad cannot process the contentEditable web function.

In my mind this is a terribly fatal flaw. I want (or wanted) to be mobile and be able to act and react to the current of the day. As it stands right now my only time in the "rain" is late in the evening after the days dust has settled. I had hopes that that would have changed with the iPad.

So, Apple, or Active Rain or Somebody please help me Stop Hating My iPad....and Flash support would be nice to have too!

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Hard Water and the Little Problems It Can Cause

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 23:12:05 -0700

Hard Water and the Little Problems It Can Cause

As a home inspector in the Austin, Texas area I run across problems caused by hard water all the time. Around here hard water is normally due to elevated levels of calcium in the water. Since the Texas Hill Country is an area with heavy concentrations of limestone it is easy to understand why our water is so hard.

Limestone is, after all, calcium carbonate or CaCO_3.All that calcium ends up in out water supply where it can wreak havoc on our plumbing pipes and our fixtures.

The fixtures in the pictures below have heavy calcium deposits on them.

In severe cases the calcium can completely stop the flow of water. Hopefully, before that happens the aerator screens on the faucets and the outlets on the other fixtures get a good cleaning. Another annoying problem that occurs as a result of the calcium is erratic spray patterns. In many cases more water ends up on you than in the sink and tub.

Many people in the Austin area have water softeners installed. These systems can be very effective in reducing the amount of calcium in your water. But, it is always a good idea to have a professional install your system and verify that it is working properly. I have seen many water softening systems that are improperly installed and maintained.

So, as a seller it is always a good idea to check each faucet and fixture before your home is inspected. These little problems can be easily corrected and here's the bonus for you - Properly working faucets and plumbing fixtures won't end up on the buyer's inspection report!

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Gaps at the Windows - Inspection Picture of the Day

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 23:22:36 -0700

Gaps at the Windows - Inspection Picture of the Day

There aren't a lot of problems that I have pre-written comments for when I do a home inspection. I believe that every home inspection is different and each situation requires it's own unique text to describe the problems I find.

One problem that I do have a pre-written comment for is for gaps in the siding around windows. They're everywhere and I can almost guarantee that I will find them on every home I inspect. I find these gaps or openings on all kinds of construction, new , old and everywhere in between. They can look like this:

This is from a new construction home inspection in Austin, Texas. Unless intended, gaps and openings on the exterior surfaces of the home should be sealed appropriately to prevent moisture and pests from entering the home. The hole in the picture above creates the perfect opportunity for water to enter you wall system where it can cause damage. It also helps create an environment that is conducive to wood destroying insects and organisms.

So, seal 'em up. These gaps or openings are easy to spot and fix if you have an annual maintenance plan. I encourage you to take a walk around your home and see if you can spot small openings and gaps in the wall system. In many cases they should not be there and should be sealed to prevent the kinds of damaged I mentioned above.

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

I Love It When I Make It To The Top

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 23:56:12 -0700

I Love It When I Make It To The Top. When I do I usually take a picture just to prove I was there!

As a home inspector in the Austin area I get to walk on top of a lot of people's homes and I love it! Sometimes I can't believe people pay me to do this. As a kid, my friends and I could be found climbing on something almost every day, and that includes other people's roofs. We did this quite often during super charged games of hide and seek.

Now that I'm in my 40s I somtimes wonder if there will come a day when I don't want to climb up and take a look at someone's roof. I know the day will come when I will be physically incapable of doing it but hopefully I will have retired long before the physical limitation is the reason I stop.

I'm proud to say that as a home inspector I've never missed a roof because it was too steep, too wet, too cold or too anything. I walk 'em because it's important that buyers have a complete picture of the home and it's components and systems.

We are blessed with good weather here in Texas and luckily I don't have to inspect from the eaves or completely skip the roof due to snow or other inclement weather.

Lately, I've been finding problems at the top. So make sure that when the time comes to hire your inspector he is will to go all the way. Even better, hire one that is looking forward to the climb!

Thanks for checking in and have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Are You Ready to Feel the Burn?? - I Sure Wasn't

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 20:55:11 -0700

Are You Ready to Feel the Burn?? - I Sure Wasn't

As a Home Inspector in Austin, Texas I end up in some fairly precarious places. I mean steep roofs, crawl spaces and attics can present hazards that many people don't encounter in their daily routine.

Last week while doing a Home Inspection in Austin Texas I got burned.....literally. As I entered the attic I accidentally touched an exposed 100 watt light bulb with the inside of my arm.

When I do a home inspection I call out all exposed bulbs no matter where they are. Exposed light bulbs get extremely hot, like 400 plus degrees hot.

Light bulbs should always be protected to prevent accidental burns. Many bulbs are protected by using a wire or plastic cage while others are protected with a glass globe.

Exposed bulbs are a burn hazard. They can also be broken much more easily than ones with proper protection. Once broken, bulbs can become a shock hazard and all that glass will surely end up in someones foot!

So, take a look around next time your helping your seller get their home readied for sale. Make sure that bulbs are properly protected. If you don't, unprotected bulbs will most likely end up on your home inspector's report.

Try not to get burned out there and thank for checking in,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Keep an Eye Out for the X - REI Garage Sales

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 23:30:49 -0700

Keep an Eye Out for the X because they are everywhere these days. Especially on really great outdoor gear.

Every few months our local REI Stores have a garage sale. They sell all the stuff that people have returned at really great prices. Some of the items are unused or barely used while some things have had the life beat out of them.

I guess that happens a lot because REI allows you to return just about anything at any time if you're not satisfied. It's a great policy but I'm confident that a few folks take advantage of their system.

So, we picked up a few items at the garage sale REI had on Saturday September 11th at their Round Rock, Texas store. The only draw back to the great deals is that everything you buy will have a large, conspicuously placed X on it.

So, keep an eye out for those Xs. And...if you have an REI nearby you should check out their garage sale.

The Downtown Austin store will host their garage sale on 9/18/2010. They are located at 601 N. Lamar Blvd. Right across the street from Whole Foods.

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Austin Home Inspection Picture of the Day - The Dryer Exhaust Vent

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 23:10:02 -0700

Austin Home Inspection Picture of the Day - The Dryer Exhaust Vent

When I do a Home Inspection there are a few things that almost always show up on a Home Inspection Report. On thing that I see all the time is clogged and dirty Dryer Exhaust Vents. Clogged and dirty exhaust vents can greatly reduce the efficiency of the dryer and can even become a fire hazard. That's right folks, I'm sure you've heard of cases of dryers catching on fire resulting in loss of the dryer, parts of the home or in some cases entire homes.....from a dirty dryer vent.

In the picture to the right the dryer exhaust vent is almost completely constricted. Dryer manufacturers recommend that you clean the lint trap after each use of the dryer. A clean lint filter allows air to properly flow from the dryer to the exterior of your home. It also helps the dryer to operate at maximum efficiency. Clogged dryer vent piping is just as inefficient as a dirty lint trap. Cleaning a exhaust vent is not as convenient or easy but should make the "to do" list at least twice a year.

Another problem I see all the time when doing Home Inspections in Austin are Dryer Vents that stick in the open position. Again, they normally stick open when they're clogged with warm, moist and sticky lint fresh from the days wash. But, an opening the size of a dryer vent is extremely attractive to birds looking for a place to nest, bats, rodents, bees and a multitude of other insects and pests.

Modern Code allows for a dryer exhaust vent to be a maximum of 25 feet long. But, if the vent pipe cannot be run straight it is recommended that the total length be reduced 2.5 feet for each 45 degree turn and 5 feet for each 90 degree bend.

Dryer exhaust should never be directed into the attic or under the home. It is never a good idea to introduce a source of moisture into these places.

Thanks for checking in and have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Dining For Life - Stand up by Sitting Down

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sun, 12 Sep 2010 21:59:20 -0700

Dining For Life - Stand up by Sitting Down

The 18th annual Dining for Life benefiting AIDS Services of Austin will begin tomorrow and run through Tuesday.

Please consider dining at one of the following restaurants on Monday September 13th or Tuesday September 14th. A substantial portion of each guests check will be donated to the fight against AIDS and HIV.

There are some great restaurants on the list this year. So, it is the perfect opportunity to have a great meal and also help a great cause.

This years lineup of restaurants is as follows:

Monday and Tuesday, September 13 and 14

Garrido's
Magnolia Café - S Congress
Magnolia Café - Lake Austin Blvd
Sago Modern Mexican
*South Congress Ave Café
*Snap Kitchen - 6^th & Lamar
*Snap Kitchen - The Triangle
*Trudy's - Central
*Trudy's - North
*Trudy's - South
Urban: an american grill

Monday, September 13

*Amy's Ice Cream
34th Street Café
Asti Trattoria
Blue Star Cafeteria
Chango's South Lamar
Chango's Guadalupe
Chez Zee American Bistro
*Chuy's Arbor Trails
*Chuy's Barton Springs
*Chuy's North Lamar
*Chuy's Round Rock
*Chuy's 183
Eastside Café
FINO Restaurant Patio & Bar
Guero's Taco Bar
Hoover's Cooking - Manor Rd
Hyde Park Bar & Grill - Duval
Hyde Park Bar & Grill - Westgate
Jack Allen's Kitchen
Magnolia Café - S Congress
Magnolia Café - Lake Austin Blvd
Manuel's at Great Hills
Manuel's Downtown
Maudie's Café
Maudie's Too
Maudie's Hacienda
Maudie's Milagro
Maudie's North Lamar
Maudie's Hill Country
Mirabelle Restaurant
Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill
Mother's Café
Olivia
Ranch 616
Sago Modern Mexican
*Shady Grove
*South Congress Ave Café
*Snap Kitchen - 6^th & Lamar
*Snap Kitchen - The Triangle
*Trudy's - Central
*Trudy's - North
*Trudy's - South
Urban: An American Grill
Wink Restaurant & Wine Bar

Tuesday, September 14

Annie's Café & Bar
The Belmont
Braise
Clay Pit
Enchiladas y Mas
Fonda San Miguel
Galaxy Café South
Galaxy Café on West Lynn
Galaxy Café at the Triangle
Garrido's
La Sombra Bar & Grill
Magnolia Café - S Congress
Magnolia Café - Lake Austin Blvd
Ruby's BBQ on Guadalupe
Sago Modern Mexican
Santa Rita Cantina - Central @ 26 Doors
Santa Rita Cantina - South @ Circle C
Shoreline Grill
*South Congress Ave Café
Snack Bar
*Snap Kitchen - 6^th & Lamar
*Snap Kitchen - The Triangle
*Trudy's - Central
*Trudy's - North
*Trudy's - South
Urban: An American Grill
Vivo Lake Creek
Vivo Cocina
Zocalo Café
Zoot

*All meals, all day.

Thank you for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Austin's Run with the Heroes 5K

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 22:48:07 -0700

Each year Central Texas hosts a fun run to honor heroes who have fallen while protecting the citizens of Austin and the surrounding area. This year that run, the Run with the Heroes 5K, is Sunday morning at 8:00 AM at South Park Meadows.

In a partnership with The Law Enforcemant Torch Run, proceeds from the Run with the Heroes Race will be donated to the Special Olympics Texas organization.

The race will be held at the South Park Meadows Shopping Center parking lot (9600IH-35 South @ Slaughter Ln). If you haven't signed up there will be race day registration.

If you're a runner please come out and run with Central Texas' Heroes and help raise money for a great cause!

Form the races website:

The "Run With The Heroes 5K" is a race with a purpose...It's more than just winning! It was designed to bring communities together with first responders, to honor fallen heroes of emergency services and show support for their families. Emergency Responders, which include Police, Fire, and EMS, are one large family, and each year "Run With The Heroes" honors a fallen brother or sister. This year, the run will honor three individuals:

Austin Police Department Officer - Drew Bolin

EMS Paramedic - Tracy Chambers

Austin Firefighter - James Glass

In remembrance of our fallen First Responders, one of our own, read more at www.sotx.org. Their spirit lives on in our hearts.

Thanks for checking in and have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Beware of Ant Infestations - Central Texas Rains Drive Ants from the Ground and into Your Homes

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 22:27:35 -0700

Beware of Ant Infestations - Central Texas Rains Drive Ants from the Ground and into Your Homes

This week we had record rainfall is many locations around Central Texas. Georgetown, Texas was one of those locations. We got well over 5 inches on Wednesday alone. That's a lot considering how long it's been since our last big rain.

One of the things that goes along with heavy rain after a dry spell is increased levels of ant activity. When it's hot and dry ants tend to seek a cool place to hide out. Thats means that they will normally stay in the ground when the temperatures are cooler. When the rains come they are often pushed out of their underground homes and forced to seek shelter in other places.

This evening we went in our daughters bedroom to help her get ready for bed we discovered their newest hiding place.....her stuffed animals. Her room is in the back corner of our home. The ant that were in the ground outside her window had to seek higher ground. That higher ground was up the foundation, into the weep holes and into the wall system near her bedroom.

Be careful and look before you sleep. Since birth, our daughter has always slept on a pad on the floor in the corner of her room. She has all of her "babies" in the corner with her each evening when she goes to bed. Today, those babies became temporary housing for the aforementioned unwanted pests.

So, look closely in those dark corners of your home. You might have visitors....especially after a heavy rain!

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

The Place to Be Friday Nights in Georgetown, TX - Dos Salsa's Tex Mex Restaurant

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 14:28:37 -0700

The Place to Be Friday Nights in Georgetown, TX - Dos Salsa's Tex Mex Restaurant

Two weeks ago tomorrow I was out with the kids (my wife had to work late) when our son mentioned that he would like to have his favorite quesadillas for dinner. After a little bit of interrogation on my part I learned that his favorite quesadillas came from a small, but well known, restaurant in Georgetown, Tx called Dos Salsa's.

So, I had the pleasure of dining with our 5 year old son and 2 year old daughter that evening. And....the food was great. But, the real eye opener for me was how many people we "ran into" that evening. We saw friends, family, local business leaders, parents from our kids school, customers, several local Realtors and even a local politician. It was one of those Who's Who in Georgetown, TX kind of nights. Quite literally, it was the place to see and be seen.

The kids were excited to tell their mother where we went for dinner and she immediately became jealous. So, one week later (a week ago tomorrow) we returned to Dos Salsa's so that she could get her fix of Chicken Enchiladas. Again, Dos Salsa'swas packed. We saw many of the same folks we had seen the week before along with lots of others too.

With a 5 and 2 year old we don't get out much and when we do a good family oriented business is a priority. Dos Salsa's delivers great food with a great family atmosphere. The wait is usually fairly long, especially on Friday night, but the parents can gather out front and chat while the kids play around the fountain or relax on the benches.

Next time you're looking for a great place to eat and visit consider Dos Salsa's in Georgetown, TX. I guarantee that you'll have a great time!

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

New Construction Inspection Picture of the Day - Crickets and Fasteners

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 23:16:22 -0700

New Construction Inspection Picture of the Day - Crickets and Fasteners

As a home inspector in the Austin area I get to do my fair share of New Construction Home Inspections. Last week I was asked to inspect a home in Liberty Hill, TX. Liberty Hill is a small community about 15 minutes west of Georgetown and just over 30 miles north of Austin. Though small, this community has seen it's fair share of growth over the past few years. When I'm asked to do a Home Inspection in Liberty Hill about half the time the home is New Construction.

While on the roof I came across a cricket behind the chimney that was not properly fastened. From a few feet away it looked OK. But up close it was easy to see that the cricket had not been properly secured to the roof structure.

The chimney on this home was very close to the end of the ridge and it required the builder to more precisely fit the chimney flashing and cricket. Instead, it appears, that the builder or the builder's contractor took a short cut here. That happens a lot. There are very few builders I know of these days that actually check the work of their contractors. Often, much of the work required to finish a New Home goes unchecked.

If you're buying a New Home and you haven't been on the roof you're in good company. Because, most likely neither has the builder or his superintendent! So, I recommend that you ask someone to do it for you. There are many great Home Inspectors in the Austin, Georgetown and Liberty Hill area that will do it for you......and them.

Thanks for checking in and have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Georgetown Airfest - September 25, 2010

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 22:16:04 -0700

Georgetown Airfest - September 25, 2010

On Septemebr 25th at the Georgetown Municipal Airport the 2010 Georgetown Airfest will take flight. This event lets you get up close and personal with some of the coolest vintage aircraft you have ever seen.

On display and in the air will be aircraft like the the Army Air-Corps B-25 bomber, an SNJ-4 Navy Trainer, a Fairchild PT-19, RC aircraft, Hot Air Balloons and many others unique aircraft.

For the ride of your life you can purchase rides on many of these airplanes. See the Georgetown Airfest website for more information.

Here is the schedule of Events for the 2010 Georgetown Airfest:

6:30 a.m., Sunrise balloon launch at the north end of the Georgetown Municipal Airport

8:00 a.m., EAA Flight Breakfast at the Cannon Aviation Group hangar near the Terminal Building

10:00 a.m., Georgetown AirFest begins with aircraft static displays, Air Rides, RC plane and helicopter demonstrations, take-offs and landings, demonstrations, and food vendors

1:00 p.m., Georgetown Pipes and Drums Band performance with Georgetown Fire Department Honor Guard followed by the dedication of Engine 4 by the Georgetown Fire Department. The new fire truck was paid for in part by the Airport Fund and is based at Fire Station 4 adjacent to the Georgetown Municipal Airport.

2:00 p.m., Falcon Flight precision formation flight team performs fly-over in RG experimental planes

4:00 p.m. Georgetown AirFest concludes

The best part of the Georgetown Airfest is that it is free.

If you have a little free time on September 25th please consider stopping by. You'll be glad that you did!

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

The Builder's Third Party Inspectors for New Construction - Home Inspection Pictures of the Day

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 23:12:19 -0700

The Builder's Third Party Inspectors for New Construction

Last week I did a New Construction Home Inspection for a home located in the Austin area. As I was entering the home I met the builder's "third party" inspector as he was leaving. We said hello to each other and as he was getting into his truck I asked if everything checked out OK. His reply to me was, "You won't find any problems with this one". Folks, those were his exact words.

While inspecting the systems in the attic I came across this:

That, my friends is an almost full overflow pan for the water heater.

My client was told that the only day I would be allowed to inspect the home was the day of the closing at 11:00 AM. I was given 3 hours to inspect the home, complete and then deliver the report before they were scheduled to close at 1:00 PM.

That's not much time for any inspector to thoroughly and properly inspect a 2,700 square foot home. Most builder's third party inspector's can knock one out in about 20 minutes. I come across them quite often in my work and they usually spend (for what I can see) just a few minutes going over a checklist that the builder gives them.

That's fine for the builder but in my experience it does not always work out so well for the home buyer. Anyone that the builder hires is actually working for the builder, not the buyer. But, the builder's "third party", independent inspector is often touted to the buyer as a final inspection on the home. It is, I guess, but for the builder, not the buyer.

I would encourage anyone that is in the process of buying a new home in the Austin area hire their own inspector for that final inspection. I am sure that any inspector they hire will do a more thorough inspection for them than the person the builder hires.

The leak in this water heater was active and had been active for some time. Something in the overflow pan had clogged the drain pipe. Debris (like insulation, nails, screws, washers, etc...) is often the cause of clogged overflow piping for Water Heater and HVAC system overflow/catch pans in attics.

As a New Home Buyer you have the right to have the home inspected by a person of your choosing. Please seriously consider the option of doing just that if you are currently in the process or expect to be in the process of buying a new home.

Thank you for stopping by and have a great day.

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Pflugerville's iFacePaint by Josh

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sun, 05 Sep 2010 23:50:54 -0700

Pflugerville's iFacePaint by Josh

When our son turned 5 we had a wonderful party at Texas Jumping Beans in Pflugerville, Texas. The children had a great time jumping and playing on the inflatables. But there was a long wait for one of the biggest hits at the party - our face painter. We had Josh from iFacePaint come in and offer Face Painting to the children that attended the party.

Josh is a 16 year old that attends Pflugerville High School. He began Face Painting (he was 14 people!) two years ago when he was asked to assist another local face painter. He had such a wonderful time that he decided to start his own business. The way he saw it, this was a great opportunity to meet new people, make new friends and, of course, make a little cash for all the things that a modern teenager needs.

As an entrepreneur and citizen Josh feels that it is important to give back to the community. He has been known to offer his services for free to local businesses and non-profits to help raise awareness of new businesses and other worthy local causes. Most recently he volunteered his time at the Book Box for their Grand Opening. He also donated his time and energy at Community Montessori School's Serendipity Festival. I know from watching him at that function that he worked for more than five hours without taking a break.

In addition to Face Painting, Josh is also a model student at Pflugerville High School. He is in the band where he plays the Alto and Baritone Saxophone. All the while he maintains a straight A average.

Josh is one of those kids that has his head on straight and seems to have figured things out. Things like.....how to raise money for band trips! He recently raised more than $600 to pay for a band trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Instead of asking his parents for the money he took the initiative and went door to door in his neighborhood. He introduced himself, told them about the band trip and then played a few tunes on his saxophone. He even booked a few gigs at local coffee shops and played in exchange for donations. His audiences were delighted and rewarded him with more than enough money to fund his trip.

You can check Josh out at iFacePaint.blogspot.com or go to his iFacePaint by Josh facebook page. His prices are very reasonable and he is sure to be a hit at your party or event. He charges $35 for Parties in the Pflugerville and Round Rock areas. That's good for up to 10 little faces. He only charges $3 additional for each face after 10. If you live outside of Pflugerville and Round Rock his fee only jumps to $40 and still gets you up to 10 faces painted.

Please think about Josh from iFacePaint the next time you find yourself planning a party or event. He is a guaranteed home run!

Thanks for checking in and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

It ain't NASCAR but it is Awesome! Formula One is Comin' ta Austin Y'All

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 16:38:42 -0700

It ain't NASCAR but it is Awesome! Formula One is Comin' ta Austin Y'All....and it's a big Deal!

The Austin area was recently chosen to host a Formula One Grand Prix. I think it's safe to say though that a lot of people here and around the country don't know how big a deal this is.

A recent article indicated that the race could have an economic impact of around 300 million dollars. That number is more than South by Southwest Music Festival and a season's worth of UT football games combined. That is a really big deal for Austin.

Those numbers are just projections for the Formula One Grand Prix. There is already talk about Austin getting the nod for a Motorcycle Grand prix race as well. Many other types of races could also be held at the track which would significantly increase the overall economic impact that a Formula One track can have on a local economy.

The first race won't be held until sometime in 2012 but expect to see lots of major changes in the landscape and community in the little town of Elroy. Hotels, restaurants and entertainment will begin to develop at or near the track site.

Estimates indicate that the track in Austin may be able to accommodate between 90,000 and 200,000 people. But, the eyes of more than 300,000,000 (million) people will be focused on our community.

Again, that is a big deal! There are already folks talking about the negative aspects of having a Formula One race held in our backyard and many that are outright opposed to the tracks construction. I for one hope that Austin and America embrace the opportunity we've been given and welcome the track, the racers and the rest of the world with open arms.

Please come to the race or at least find out a little more about the sport and it's characters. I think you'll find it to be worth your time and effort.

Like I said, It ain't NASCAR but it is Awesome!

Thanks for checking in and have a great day,

Are You Ready for Some Football - Georgetown Eagle Style!

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 12:13:47 -0700

Are You Ready for Some Football - Georgetown Eagle Style!

Even though it doesn't feel like it fall is just around the corner. And, fall means Football Season for millions around the country. Some like to sit and watch while others like to get out there and play.

The Georgetown High School Football teams in Georgetown, Texas are revved up and ready to take all comers. I thought it would be a great idea to post their schedule. I hope to see y'all out at the games!

Georgetown Eagle Varsity Football Schedule

Date School Location Time

FRI. AUG. 20 2010	AUSTIN HIGH (SCRIMMAGE)	HOUSE PARK	7:30
SAT. AUG. 28 2010	HARKER HEIGHTS	ALAMO DOME	7:30
FRI. SEPT. 3 2010	TEMPLE	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:30
FRI. SEPT. 10 2010	AUSTIN ANDERSON	HOUSE PARK	7:30
FRI. SEPT. 17 2010	DEL VALLE (HOMECOMING)	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:30
FRI. SEPT. 24 2010	*LEANDER	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:30
FRI. OCT. 1 2010	*ROUND ROCK	DRAGON STADIUM	7:30
FRI. OCT. 8 2010	*STONY POINT	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:30
FRI. OCT. 15 2010	*PFLUGERVILLE	KUEMPEL STADIUM	7:30
FRI. OCT. 22 2010	*WESTWOOD	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:30
FRI. OCT. 29 2010	*MCNEIL	RRISD STADIUM	7:30
FRI. NOV. 5 2010	OPEN	OPEN	OPEN

Georgetown Eagle JV Blue Schedule

Date School Location Time

FRI. AUG. 20 2010	AUSTIN HIGH (SCRIMMAGE)	HOUSE PARK	5:30
THU. AUG. 26 2010	HARKER HEIGHTS	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. SEPT. 2 2010	TEMPLE	WILDCAT STADIUM	5:30
THU. SEPT. 9 2010	AUSTIN ANDERSON	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. SEPT. 16 2010	DEL VALLE	DEL VALLE STADIUM	5:30
THU. SEPT. 23 2010	*LEANDER	BIBLE STADIUM	5:30
THU. SEPT. 30 2010	*ROUND ROCK	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. OCT. 7 2010	*STONY POINT	STONY POINT HS	5:30
THU. OCT. 14 2010	*PFLUGERVILLE	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. OCT. 21 2010	*WESTWOOD	WESTWOOD HS	5:30
THU. OCT. 28 2010	*MCNEIL	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. NOV. 4 2010	OPEN	OPEN	OPEN

Georgetown Eagle JV Silver Schedule

Date School Location Time

FRI. AUG. 20 2010	AUSTIN HIGH (SCRIMMAGE)	HOUSE PARK	7:00
THU. AUG. 26 2010	HARKER HEIGHTS	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. SEPT. 2 2010	TEMPLE	WILDCAT STADIUM	7:00
THU. SEPT. 9 2010	AUSTIN ANDERSON	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. SEPT. 16 2010	DEL VALLE	DEL VALLE STADIUM	7:00
THU. SEPT. 23 2010	*LEANDER	BIBLE STADIUM	7:00
THU. SEPT. 30 2010	*ROUND ROCK	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. OCT. 7 2010	*STONY POINT	STONY POINT HS	7:00
THU. OCT. 14 2010	*PFLUGERVILLE	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. OCT. 21 2010	*WESTWOOD	WESTWOOD HS	7:00
THU. OCT. 28 2010	*MCNEIL	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. NOV. 4 2010	OPEN	OPEN	OPEN

Georgetown Eagle Freshman Blue Schedule

Date School Location Time

FRI. AUG. 20 2010	AUSTIN HIGH (SCRIMMAGE)	AUSTIN HS	5:00
THU. AUG. 26 2010	HARKER HEIGHTS	HARKER HEIGHTS HS	5:30
THU. SEPT. 2 2010	TEMPLE	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. SEPT. 9 2010	AUSTIN ANDERSON	ANDERSON HS	4:00
THU. SEPT. 16 2010	DEL VALLE	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. SEPT. 23 2010	*LEANDER	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. SEPT. 30 2010	*ROUND ROCK	DRAGON STADIUM	7:00
THU. OCT. 7 2010	*STONY POINT	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. OCT. 14 2010	*PFLUGERVILLE	KUEMPEL STADIUM	7:00
THU. OCT. 21 2010	*WESTWOOD	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. OCT. 28 2010	*MCNEIL	MCNEIL HS	7:00
THU. NOV. 4 2010	OPEN	OPEN	OPEN

Georgetown Eagle Freshman Blue Schedule

Date School Location Time

FRI. AUG. 20 2010	AUSTIN HIGH (SCRIMMAGE)	AUSTIN HS	5:00
THU. AUG. 26 2010	HARKER HEIGHTS	HARKER HEIGHTS HS	7:00
THU. SEPT. 2 2010	TEMPLE	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. SEPT. 9 2010	AUSTIN ANDERSON	ANDERSON HS	5:30
THU. SEPT. 16 2010	DEL VALLE	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	5:30
THU. SEPT. 23 2010	*LEANDER	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. SEPT. 30 2010	*ROUND ROCK	DRAGON STADIUM	5:30
THU. OCT. 7 2010	*STONY POINT	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. OCT. 14 2010	*PFLUGERVILLE	KUEMPEL STADIUM	5:30
THU. OCT. 21 2010	*WESTWOOD	GISD ATHLETIC COMPLEX	7:00
THU. OCT. 28 2010	*MCNEIL	MCNEIL HS	5:30
THU. NOV. 4 2010	OPEN	OPEN	OPEN

Thanks for Checking in nad have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Williamson County, Texas Blood Drives - September 2010

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:03:35 -0700

Williamson County, Texas Blood Drives - September 2010

Every Month I get a handy reminder in the mail about local blood drives. I give as often as I can. After all, there is no artificial substitute for human blood. I thought it would be a good idea to list them here. If you can make one your donation would be greatly appreciated.

Sept. 1st - 11 to 5 PM - Scott & White Healthcare - 300 University Blvd, Round Rock, TX

Sept. 2nd - 1 to 4 PM - Scott & White Sports Medicine and Rehab. - 5353 Williams Dr., Georgetown, TX

Sept. 13th - 8:30 to 4 PM - Scott & White Georgetown Clinic - 4945 Williams Dr, Georgetown, TX

Sept. 14th - 8:30 to 2 PM - Sun City Social Center - 2 Texas Drive, Georgetown, TX

Sept. 21st - 10 to 3 PM - Scott & White Medical Office Bldg. - 425 University Blvd, Round Rock, TX

Sept. 23rd - 9 to 3 PM - Scott & White Healthcare - 300 University Blvd, Round Rock, TX

Sept. 24th - 10 to 2 PM - The Vineyard at Florence, 8711 FM 487, Florence, TX

Sept. 29th - 11 to 6 PM - Taylor Temple College, 516 N. Main Street, Taylor, TX

Every donor in the month of September will recieve a T-Shirt, Football Helmet Squeezie and a chance to win a $200 Gift Card donated by the First Baptist Church of Belton.

Thanks for checking in and have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Exposed Nails and Asphalt Shingles - Inspection Picture of the Day

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 23:53:51 -0700

Exposed Nails and Asphalt Shingles - Inspection Picture of the Day

I had the pleasure of conducting a New Construction Home Inspection this morning in Cedar Park, Texas. While up on the roof I found 2 nails that were exposed. Incredibly that number - 2 - is on the low side. On most Home Inspections I conduct there are many more!

Normally fasteners that are driven into a 3 Tab Fiberglass shingles are covered up by the next row of shingles. In this case the installer drove the fastener just a little too low. It happens all the time and that's OK. But, shingle manufactures state in their installation manuals that fasteners MUST NOT be exposed.

When a nail or fastener is driven into a shingle it actually creates a hole in your home. I know....it's a small hole but a hole nonetheless. Painstaking care was taken (or should have been taken) to make sure that holes or other opportunities for leaks were eliminated during the building process. When installing a roof thousands of these holes are created in the roof structure. And.....that's OK. Because, if the next shingle if properly applied it will cover the fastener and it's little hole.

So, the roofing contractor in this case should have taken their tube of caulk, or sealant or asphalt plastic cement and simply covered the exposed fasteners.

It's a quick and easy thing to do but I can usually find a few of these on every roof that I walk during a Home Inspection.

Thanks for stopping in and have a great day!

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Family Traditions - The Sunday Picture

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 22:12:27 -0700

Family Traditions - The Sunday Picture

Shortly after getting married in April of 2002 I felt compelled to establish some family traditions. Traditions can come in many shapes and sizes and for sure this one is small potatoes as far as traditions go. Here's what I came up with - The Sunday Picture.

I thought it would be kinda neat to be able to look back in time and see where we started and compare that to where we ended up. So, every Sunday our family takes a few moments to sit down and snap a quick picture.

The beautiful thing about them is that they are gloriously imperfect. They are, by design, supposed to be a quick glimpse into our lives on that day. So, no fancy clothes, no combs and for me usually no clean shave face!

We welcome anyone that is with us to be in the picture and have captured some wonderful memories over the past 8 years and 17 weeks. We as a family should now have just over 430 pictures in our Sunday Picture folder.

Near the top I've attached our picture from this evening. Below are few taken through the years.

We would love to hear about your family traditions. Maybe we can make some of them our own.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great evening,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services - "Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

512-632-3232 - www.centexinspections.com

Termite Inspections in Texas

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 22:54:51 -0700

Termite Inspections in Texas are a very important part of the discovery process when buying a home. Many buyers often assume that a home inspection will address the issue of termites and other wood destroying insects but that is simply not the case.

In Texas, a separate license issued by the Texas Department of Agriculture is required to perform a Termite or Wood Destroying Insect Inspection. We are required to use a state mandated form called the Texas Wood Destroying Insect Report.

A person performing a Wood Destroying Inspect Inspection in Texas is only permitted to report on visible information available at the time of the inspection. Invasive or destructive methods may not be employed during these types of inspections. One important fact to remember is that the report rendered is not a structural damage report or a warranty/guarantee that there are no wood destroying insects in the home.

As a realtor it is generally a good idea to familiarize yourself with the Scope Of Inspection information provided at the top of every Wood Destroying Insect report. You would be surprised by the number of misconceptions that customers and many of their Realtors have about the inspections we perform and reports that we render.

Thank you for stopping by and have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services - "Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas"

www.centexinspections.com - 512-632-3232

Owning a Historic Home in Old Town - Georgetown, Texas

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 07:41:16 -0700

Owning a Historic Home in Old Town - Georgetown, Texas

In the heart of Georgetown, Texas the area known as Old Town is a full of a wonderful and unique collection of homes. There are more than 180 Nationally Registered Historic Homes in this area. As a home inspector it is always a treat when called upon to perform a home inspection for one of these delightful properties.

Old Town is runs roughly from South Austin Ave on the west to Hutto road to the east. Its northern border is 2^nd street and it runs all the way south to 18^th Street. In this area a wide variety of homes can be found ranging from the grandeur of massive Victorian mansions to a small shotgun home located at 81 West Street.

Since 1977 the Georgetown Heritage Society has been working "toward its mission to assist in the preservation of buildings; to work toward preserving areas of natural beauty and charm; to disseminate knowledge; to act in an advisory capacity and to cooperate with other groups in realizing these objectives" in the Old Town area.

The City of Georgetown has incorporated strategies for preserving Georgetown's historic and cultural structures. The city has identified 3 Historic Districts to help preserve and maintain these buildings. There is a Town Square District, a Downtown District and the Old Town district. Owners of homes and buildings in these districts are required to submit plans which must be approved by the Historic and Architectural Review Commission before a Certificate of Design Compliance will be issued. Only after these steps have been completed can changes to the structures be performed.

For more information you can review Georgetown's Historic and Downtown Standards on their website.

For more information on Old Town the Georgetown Heritage Society offices can be found at Grace Heritage Center, 811 South Main Street and they are open to the public every Thursday from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.

A quick tour of Old Town revealed that there are lots of great homes currently for sale in this area. If your dream is to own one of these great properties please check with your realtor. If you need an inspector I can give you the name of a really good one in the area!

Thanks and have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services - 512-632-3232

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas" - www.centexinspections.com

Baseball Season is Under Way - A New Class of Slugger's Joins the Game in Georgetown, Texas

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 06:23:43 -0700

Baseball Season is Under Way - A New Class of Slugger's Joins the Game in Georgetown, Texas

The baseball season is now in full swing. This year is especially important for us because our son is playing baseball for the first time. Well T-Ball but conceptually the same thing!

Here he is!

As you can see he, he has signed a one season deal with the 4 and Up T-Ball Red Sox.

Last night the GYBA players were allowed to take the field with the Georgetown Eagle ballplayers for the national anthem.

To complete their indoctrination into the world of baseball they were given a hotdog and a drink and sent to the stands to watch the game.

This is as exciting a time for us as parents as it is for our son. He loves to practice and play this newfound sport.

And, who knows, in 15 years our little slugger and his teammates could be signing for real with their new teams!

Thanks for stopping by and have a great weekend,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services - 512-632-3232

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas" - www.centexinspections.com

Inspection Picture of the Day - No Trap, Rust and lots of ..... Stuff - Home Inspection in Austin, Texas

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 05:35:24 -0700

Inspection Picture of the Day - No Trap, Rust and lots of ..... Stuff from a Home Inspection in Austin, Texas

In the course of my duties as a Home Inspector I run into lots of Stuff! One thing I have to contend with on most every inspection I conduct is clutter. And, one of the most popular places for clutter is under the sinks.

I don't know why but these secluded spots are most often overlooked when people decide to sell their home. As a result, it seems, more stuff gets crammed under the sink than gets taken out.

Here are a couple of pictures from a Home Inspection in Austin, Texas that I completed last week. See if you can identify any "problems".

I had to move a bunch of items to reveal this. A trapless drain under the kitchen sink.

I did a little more digging beneath that kitchen sink and found this. A small water heater. Covered with more stuff!

At the end of the trail I found that the water heater's relief valve was plumbed to a heavily rusted pan. The pan is at the end of it's useful life and the two year old water heater will most likely need to be replaced soon. The reason....it's sitting in about a quarter inch of water and is beginning to rust away just like the pan in which it sits.

I know that when sellers put their home on the market they do a lot of things to make their home more attractive. The space under the sinks seem to be forgotten about. But, this space on this inspection got a lot more attention than the seller was probably expecting. Everyone there eventually stuck their head under the sink ..... me, the buyer, then the buyer's agent followed by the seller's agent and finally the seller himself.

Thanks for taking a look. Have a great day.

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services - 512-632-3232

"Your Home Inspection Connection in Central Texas" - www.centexinspection.com

Wine Barrel Furniture in Georgetown, Texas from the Fine Folks at Cedarstone Ranch

Andy Chaudoir (Professional Inspection Services - Georgetown, Texas) — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:19:26 -0700

Wine Barrel Furniture in Georgetown, Texas from the Fine Folks at Cedarstone Ranch

As many of you know, I'm in the home inspection game. One of the perks of my job is getting to meet and in many cases, befriend many of my clients.

Today I was blessed with another opportunity to inspect a beautiful home in Georgetown, Texas. It just so happened that today my client's children and our children attend the same school, Community Montessori School. So, I knew (of) H.L. and Mindy Fahnestock but never really got to know them. Had I known more about them I would have know that they are in the business of repurposing old wine barrels.

Most residents in the Austin, Texas area know that the Texas Hill Country just west of the city is home to many small wineries. From those wineries, H.L. and his crew reclaim barrels and turn them into beautiful pieces of furniture.

One of their specialties is wine barrels gone green - as in eco-friendy green! They take these barrels and turn them into rainwater collection systems. The beauty of the white oak barrels is that they naturally water tight. This makes them well suited for the their new life as a rain barrels.

In addition to the rain barrels they also make custom wine barrel furniture. They currently offer half barrels (vertically and horizontally) that can be used as a table, bookshelf or planter. There is also the option of having a barrel converted into a cozy hideout for your favorite 4 legged friend.

During the inspection I spotted a barrel stave candle holder on H.L.'s dining room table. My first thought was, my wife would love that. My second thought, how do I get one.

You can also buy a barrel for any Do-It-Yourself project that you might have in mind. Or, if you need something custom crafted just let them know. Their shop is well equipped to handle almost any request.

So, if you're looking for something that is custom and unique with that Texas Hill Country charm, give them a call or visit them online.

Their website is www.cedarstoneranch.com and their number is 512-422-2413.

Thanks and have a great day,

Andy Chaudoir - Professional Inspection Services - 512-632-3232

"Your Home Inspection Com=nnection in Central Texas" - www.centexinspections.com