ASHI Recommends Pre-Winter Review to Lower Costs and Prevent Problems
The winter season is now in view, bringing with it colder temperatures, rain. and holiday shopping bills. At the same time, home heating costs continue to rise around the nation making energy efficiency a top concern for homeowners. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), a pre-winter review of a home can help reduce energy costs and prevent a number of weather related problems before they start.
"There are numerous ways to reduce heating costs and other problems, so it is important for homeowners to review the condition of their home each year. The following are some simple steps homeowners can take to improve their home's energy use:
Doors and Windows -- Examine all of the home's doors and windows, looking for water damage, wood decay and energy dissipating drafts. Old and worn windows/doors may need to be replaced. Otherwise, a piece of weather stripping or caulk can help to reduce the amount of heat escaping.
Insulation -- Check the attic for sufficient or missing insulation -- the current standard is at least 12 inches of material. Many older homes only have 4-6 or less, in which case having more blown in can prove to be cost effective. Additionally, insulation is often misplaced or removed where cable television or phone work has been performed, so check for areas where it may be missing, allowing for drafts. Most of the heat loose through the ceiling into the attic. Many older homes do not have insulation under the floor. All your water pipes under the home should be insulated. If your water heater is in the garage an insulation wrap can help.
Furnace --Have your furnace inspected and serviced to make sure it is running properly. A clean filter should be installed. If the unit is old, it may be wise to invest in a new, more energy efficient model.
An Ounce of Prevention
In addition to energy problems, ASHI noted that homes are subject to the effects of aging. Many homeowners tend to put off thinking about these issues until it becomes time to sell, but regular inspections of the home's major systems should be a normal part of ongoing maintenance to preserve the value of the home.
Periodically monitoring the overall condition of the home is crucial. Tending to problems before they become serious will help save a homeowner from more extensive and costly repairs down the road.
Following are some of the most common areas homeowners should be checking:
Brick Chimneys -- ASHI recommends an annual check and cleaning if needed to avoid flue fires. Homeowners need to be conscious of creosote buildup, a byproduct of burning wood that can cause chimney fires. Damaged mortar around the chimney is another potential trouble spot. Older house may have an unlined brick chimney, which is a potential fire hazard.
Examining the Walls -- Homeowners should look for visible cracks and loose or crumbling mortar. Also, homeowners should be mindful of loose fitting or warped trim and siding. Ignoring these signs could result in unnecessary drafts and water damage especially in many of the wood composite types of siding in the northwest.
On the Rooftop -- A leaky roof, gutter or downspouts remains a dreaded fear for most homeowners. When checking for roof damage, look for damaged or loose shingles, gaps in flashing where roofing and siding meet vents and flues. The roof and gutters should be cleaned removing all tree debris. Because of the high incidence of injuries from falls from rooftops and ladders, ASHI suggests homeowners check for problems from the ground using binoculars or call in a professional if a closer look and if repairs are needed.
Foundation and Driveway Drains -
Any exterior drains around the home should be cleaned ready to move water away for the home. If your crawl space has drains or sump pump, check to make sure both a functional ready for upcoming wet season. Sump pumps typically have a float switch that activates the pump when water rises in the pit.
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