Many homes in Uniondale and through out Long Island have attic space. Attic Inspections for Uniondale home buyers is another important part of the home inspection. An attic inspection consist of determining if there is insulation that is firmly placed between the ceiling joist or roof rafters. If there is insulation it should not be placed against the eaves as this will block the airflow from the soffit vents into the attic space. The inspection will determine if there is enough insulation for the attic space. Many times I find there is not enough insulation and recommend more be added. Sometimes it is just some areas that insulation should be added. Improperly insulated and ventilated attic space may cause mildew and wood rot.
The 4th wood member has extensive rot
Another part of the inspection is to determine if there is an adequate flow of air across the attic space. Lack of air flow can cause as noted above damage such as wood rot to the wooden members. For example wood rot compromises the wood rafters and eventually the roof deck. In many cases that I have seen the plaster or wallboard on the ceiling has cracked and the paint has peeled and blistered. I find that some of the older homes are not properly vented and insulated. This is a major source of roof damage and it can be very costly.
So proper ventilation of the attic space is essential for air to circulate through out. Proper ventilation prevents warm air in the winter from being trapped in the attic where condensation can cause damage. Again condensation causes moisture and moisture brings in wood destroying insects as well as wood rot. In the summer ventilation helps prevent heat and humidity build up. Preventing this build up of heat and humidity cools the attic and the entire structure.
Wet stains discovered, white patches are fungal growth
A home inspector will also check the condition of any wiring in the attic space. One of the problems home inspectors find is damaged live wires hidden under the insulation. Much of the time the wires are affected because of the condensation build up which causes the metal cover to rust and the rubber insulation to rot away. Also recessed light fixtures have been found to be covered with insulation. Building codes require that insulation be kept back three to four inches away from recessed light fixtures. Anything less than that can cause a fire due to the extreme heat from the lights. These are some of the issues that you can expect to be covered during your home inspection.
For more information please visit: www.closerlookpi.com
Comments(0)