RICK JACQUEMARD, Flatirons Home Inspections
BOULDER – The exterior of a home is an integral part of any inspection. A home’s exterior needs to be more than just attractive. The exterior material, whether it’s siding, cedar shake, brick or stone, is what keeps a home sealed from the elements. The exterior components, along with the roof and drainage system, act together to keep the homes interior warm and dry. All parts of a home’s exterior must be in good condition. If one piece fails, it can ruin the integrity of the entire system.
The site and grounds should be inspected including surface drainage, retaining walls, trees, shrubs and grading on the property. Any of these can adversely affect the building. Driveways, walkways, and patios adjacent to the property should be included as well as attached decks, balconies, stoops, steps, porches and their associated railings.
A thorough inspection takes special notice of trees growing too close to the building and observes the overall slope of the ground that surrounds the building. These two things can cause more structural damage than the average home owner ever realizes.
Prospective home buyers should check for the condition of all these components when they receive an inspection report and question the inspector if items are overlooked.
For more information on home inspections contact Rick Jacquemard at 720.280.3544, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.flatironshi.com.
