Friday, March 25, 2016

7 Spring Exterior Home Maintenance Tips


Here to Help
If you’ve been thinking of selling your home, the thought of spring maintenance can seem overwhelming. But don’t fret! At From the GroundUp Inspections, we’re here to help. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 7 Spring Home Maintenance Tips to get you started. Enjoy - and don’t hesitate to reach out for us with all of your home maintenance and inspection questions.

7 Spring Exterior Home Maintenance Tips


1. Your Roof
  • SHINGLES
Perform a thorough inspection for missing and damaged shingles. Contact a professional roofer to replace or repair any damage.
  • FLASHING
Have your pro roofer check flashing and seals surrounding plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys, and make any necessary repairs. Remember, DIY roof repair can in some cases lead to an invalidated warranty. It is best to be well acquainted with your warranty before risking it.
  • CHIMNEY
Have your chimney inspected for signs of damage and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep.
  • GUTTERS
Closely inspect your gutters for leaks, clogs, and insecure attachments. Most professional roofing contractors service gutters as well, so ask them to check along with the rest of their inspection to avoid foundation damage or insect problems down the road.
  • TRIM
Trim is one more aspect of home maintenance that many roofing companies service. While inspecting your roof, ask them to take a look at and repair any damage or other issues before greater damage occurs.
2. Fencing
It’s not just the winter storms that can do damage to your fencing. Frigid temperatures can also do a number on your fencing, causing vulnerable spots to become brittle and break. Do a thorough check of all fencing for any spots in need of repair, before the damage multiplies.
3. Decking
This is one of the most commonly neglected exterior projects. How is your deck and railing looking? If it’s one of the projects that got left behind last year, make a plan to complete it swiftly, and hold yourself accountable. An attractive, well-maintained deck adds much to the visual appeal of your home.
4. Firewood
Unless you’re one of the few Middle Tennessee homeowners who use firewood year-round, move any firewood piles stored near the exterior of your home. It is preferable to relocate firewood to a dry, sheltered area away from the home during non-use seasons. This also helps eliminate the presence of any pests that may find your firewood stack to be a cozy home for their family.
5. Concrete
Inspect all concrete slabs and walkways for solidity. Any signs of cracks or movement should be repaired with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. Be sure that all exterior slabs (with the exception of pool decks) drain away from the home's foundation. A fresh power washing and sealing application will do wonders for the appearance and longevity of your concrete!
6. Faucets
Any chance that those exterior faucets experienced any damage from freezing temperatures last season? Check by turning the water on and placing your thumb or finger over the opening. Can you can stop the flow of water? If so, the pipe inside the home is likely damaged and will need replacing.
7. AC Service
Don’t forget to have your  AC Unit serviced by a professional HVAC contractor. A clean system operates more effectively and efficiently. Besides, the best time to discover any impending repair or replacement issues is before they reach crisis status.


For all your Middle Tennessee home inspection needs! Having an expert you can count on makes all the difference. We dig deep to uncover everything you need to know. To learn more about our services, prices or to schedule an appointment with From the Ground Up Inspections, call (615) 351-1922.




For info on special offers & updates, click here:  http://www.homeinspectionsmurfreesborotn.com/

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Home Improvement, DIY & Permits

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A Little Sprucing
It’s still a seller’s market here in the volunteer state, and that has many Middle Tennessee homeowners dreaming of dollar signs dancing around in their head. There’s still time to take advantage of today’s outstanding real estate for home sellers. Of course, to maximize your home’s earning potential, you’re probably going to want to do a little “sprucing up” first.
What’s Involved?
When it comes to basic maintenance types of home improvements, such as applying a fresh coat of paint or power-washing your home, all systems are go! But when it comes to larger types of home improvements or repairs, it’s important to stop and consider exactly what’s involved in the project.
DIY or Go Pro?
Certain repairs and upgrades involve a high degree of knowledge and experience in order to safely complete the project. In these cases, you will need to get educating before proceeding any further. Do you have the knowledge base and ability to complete the project yourself, or would you be best served by hiring an experienced professional? If you do feel confident in your ability to perform the task, do you know what permits and inspections may be required?
Special Permits & Inspections
Many home improvements require a permit to ensure that the work is done in a manner that will not endanger the safety of current or future residents of the home - not to mention those doing the work! Any time you are moving water, gas or electrical, or making changes to the structure of a building, expect to need a permit. Here are the top home improvement projects requiring special permits and inspections in order to involve home safety hazards:
  • Water Heater Replacement
  • Deck Construction
  • Electrical Wiring
  • Garage Conversion
  • Roof Replacement
  • Heating & Air Conditioning Installation

Err with Caution
When it comes to permits, you always want to err on the side of caution. Codes vary, so be sure to check with your local building department to ensure that everything is done safely and legally. The consequences could be costly - at best. Fines, work delays, orders to partially or completely remove the work or installation, and negligence cases, are not uncommon. At the worst, injuries and even death can occur. Whatever you do, always remember: safety is not an accident.  
For all your Middle Tennessee home inspection needs, From the Ground Up Inspections offers professional experience you can count on. To learn more about our services, prices or to schedule an appointment, contact From the Ground Up Inspections at (615) 351-1922. We look forward to helping you!

For info on special offers & updates, click here:  http://www.homeinspectionsmurfreesborotn.com/