Foundation Moisture Prevention

We have said it before, and we will say it again and again. Moisture management is critical when it comes to your home. We have seen firsthand how proactive steps can save homeowners from major headaches down the road, and conversely how improper moisture management has caused floods, structural issues and mold. Below are some tips to know and share.

Ensure Proper Grading Around the Home

• The ground should slope away from the foundation at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet. This helps direct water away from the house.

• At the very least, just make sure that water is draining AWAY from the home.

Maintain and Extend Downspouts

• Downspouts should discharge water at least 4-6 feet away from the foundation.

• Recommend installing downspout extensions to prevent water from collecting near the foundation.

Clean and Repair Gutters

• Clogged or damaged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into the foundation. Water spilling over from clogged gutters led to a lot of basement flooding last year during the heavy rainfalls that hit the Denver-Metro area.

• Regularly clean gutters, especially in the fall.

• Suggest ensuring all gutter joints are sealed and securely attached.

Install a French Drain or Drainage System

• If the property has a history of water pooling near the foundation, recommend consulting a professional to install a French drain or other drainage solutions.

Check for Cracks in the Foundation

• Small cracks can allow water to seep in. Inspect the foundation regularly and use an appropriate sealant to fill any minor cracks.

• For larger cracks, suggest consulting a structural engineer or foundation specialist.

Maintain Proper Landscaping

• Trees and shrubs should be planted at least 5-10 feet from the foundation to prevent root intrusion and soil moisture issues.

• Opt for native plants that require less water, reducing the risk of over-saturating the soil.

Install a Sump Pump

• In areas prone to heavy rainfall or high water tables, a sump pump can help remove excess water from around the foundation.

• Recommend testing the sump pump regularly to ensure it's operational.

Waterproof the Basement or Crawl Space

• Suggest using waterproof paint or sealants on basement walls to reduce moisture intrusion.

• Install a vapor barrier in crawl spaces and ensure that it’s properly sealed.

Monitor Drainage After Heavy Rain

• Walk around the property after a rainstorm to check how water is draining and identify any problem areas early.

3 Things You Need To Know About Our Lead Based Paint Inspection

Have you wanted to ensure your home is free from lead paint but aren’t sure where to start or how complicated the process might be? Here’s a quick guide on what you need to know!

1. It's a non-invasive inspection. Our lead-based paint inspection is non-invasive thanks to our state-of-the-art XRF (X-ray fluorescence) technology. Unlike traditional methods that require cutting out paint samples and potentially damaging your home, our advanced XRF analyzer allows us to detect lead in paint quickly and accurately without any destruction. This means we can ensure your home’s safety while preserving its condition, providing you with peace of mind and maintaining the integrity of your property.

1. Our XRF technology scans every layer of paint down to the original surface. This advanced method allows us to identify lead presence not just on the top layer but in all underlying layers of paint. By analyzing each layer, we can provide a thorough assessment of potential lead hazards, giving you complete confidence in the safety and compliance of your home.

1. Our XRF gives instant results. Each scan takes only 3 seconds to complete, providing immediate feedback on the presence of lead in paint layers. This quick turnaround time allows us to promptly deliver detailed reports, ensuring you receive comprehensive information without delays. 

The Hidden Dangers of Lead: Why Professional Inspection is Essential

Lead is a toxic metal that poses serious health risks, especially to children and pregnant women. Despite its dangers, lead was commonly used in paints, pipes, and other building materials until it was banned in residential properties in the late 1970s. Today, many older homes still contain lead-based materials, creating potential health hazards for their occupants.

Exposure to lead can cause a range of health problems. In children, lead poisoning can result in developmental delays, learning difficulties, irritability, and weight loss. For adults, lead exposure can lead to high blood pressure, joint and muscle pain, difficulties with memory or concentration, and complications during pregnancy. The effects of lead poisoning are often irreversible, making prevention and early detection critical.

Because lead is not always visible to the naked eye, it is essential to have a professional inspection if you suspect its presence in your home. Our certified lead inspectors use specialized and non-invasive analyzers to detect lead based paint in the home, no matter if it's been painted over. This thorough inspection process ensures that all potential sources of lead based paint are identified.

Attempting to test for lead yourself or ignoring the potential presence of lead can be dangerous. Disturbing lead-based materials during renovations or repairs can release toxic dust into the air, putting everyone in the home at risk. 

Given the severe health risks associated with lead exposure, it is crucial to rely on professional inspections to ensure your home is safe. Protecting your family's health and well being should always be a top priority, and professional lead inspections are a vital part of maintaining a safe living environment.

DIY vs. Professional Asbestos Testing: Why Professional Inspection Matters

Ensure Your Home's Safety with Professional Asbestos Testing

Asbestos, once highly valued for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, now presents serious health risks if disturbed - especially by someone without professional training. As certified asbestos inspectors, we are trained and equipped to handle asbestos sampling safely and effectively. Using specialized techniques, we carefully determine the quantity, location, and method of sample collection without releasing dangerous fibers into the air. This detailed process ensures accurate results and minimizes the risk of exposure.

In contrast, DIY asbestos testing kits available to consumers often lack the precision and safety measures necessary for reliable detection. Without professional expertise, homeowners may not even be aware of which materials in their home might contain asbestos before starting a project that could release harmful fibers into the air.

By hiring a certified asbestos inspector, you not only receive thorough testing but also gain peace of mind. We work with accredited laboratories for precise analysis and provide expert recommendations on managing asbestos hazards if they are detected. Investing in a professional inspection is a proactive way to safeguard your living environment.