Tag Archives: whidbey island

SATURDAY REVIEW: THANKS ALL ISLANDS HOME INSPECTIONS!

Google Rating: *****

“Tim and All Island Inspections exceeded all of our expectations for a quick and thorough inspection of our first home purchase! Tim clearly knew the in’s and out’s of the inspection and documented and recorded absolutely everything. He is thorough, professional, fair, and informative. Tim was willing to spend time in-person reviewing his work immediately after and answering the many questions we had (and we had a lot as first time homebuyers). The final report included not only his written findings, but pictures, videos, and links to further information. We can even make a request list from the report regarding issues to help us keep track and he is available for any further questions that arise before closing. Any nervousness going into the inspection was quickly alleviated by Tim’s knowledge and professionalism. We are way more confident with our first purchase and are grateful for Tim’s honesty and work!”
-Douglas Rea Jr.

DOES IT MAKE SENSE TO DIY?

Should you DIY plumbing vents to the exterior of your home? I recommend leaving this up to a qualified plumbing contractor, as venting is important and getting it wrong can lead to unpleasant sensory experiences and/or improper drainage function.

Slow draining bathroom sink?

We ask a lot of our bathroom sink drains. We pour toothpaste, soap, shaving cream, makeup and stray hair into them and expect them to work. Unfortunately, sometimes they don’t. A serious clog usually requires a chemical drain cleaner or a plumber’s snake. For a slow-moving drain, you might first try a plunger to dislodge the clog. It’s easy to use; be sure to use it carefully and avoid splashes. Before you begin, put a few inches of water in the sink to provide a good seal around the plunger. Next, stuff a wet rag into the overflow opening of the sink and seal it well. This air block greatly increases the effectiveness of the plunger. Then plunge away! You may have to refill the basin with water a few times to free a very stubborn clog.

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Fun Facts Friday: Wood

Wood is made up of a combination of living, dying, and dead cells.

The terms softwood and hardwood describe the leaves, seeds and structure of the trees rather than the type of wood they produce.

The world’s heaviest wood is Australian Bauhinia Red.

DOES YOUR ROOF LOOK A LITTLE LIKE AN ALLIGATOR?

Roofing systems take a beating. After all, they are typically the home’s first line of defense against the elements.

Like all of your home’s elements, roofs will eventually show their age through deterioration. During a recent inspection on Whidbey Island, I came across built-up roof coverings that were cracking—a phenomenon in the industry known as “alligatoring.” As you might guess, this means the roof was starting to resemble reptile skin.

In my report, I recommended further evaluation by a qualified contractor to make repairs as deemed necessary. I also recommended that the clients budget for re-seal coating of the roof coverings.If you have questions or comments about roofing or home inspections in general, tweet me (@AIHomeInspect).

SATURDAY REVIEW: ‘I WOULD RECOMMEND HIM TO ANYONE ESPECIALLY FIRST TIME BUYERS’

A couple of Saturdays per month, I like to share recent customer reviews with you. I hope that these client testimonies—which come primarily from Yelp, Facebook, and Google Reviews—help you to feel more confident in my services while also saying “thanks” to clients who provide me with feedback.

This week, we hear from client Raven McGrew.

My customers (you) allow me a chance to do a job I love in a place I’ve called home my whole life. Without you, All Islands Inspections wouldn’t exist. Thank you!

If you have questions or comments about home inspections in general, tweet me (@AIHomeInspect).

NOT A BRIGHT IDEA: FURNACE FLUE PIPE NEXT TO ELECTRICAL SERVICE ENTRANCE CONDUCTOR

Sometimes, I come across head-scratching scenarios—most typically as a curious handyman repair.

On a recent journey to Whidbey Island, my scratching was at a fever pitch when I noticed a furnace flue pipe near the overhead electrical service entrance conductors and adjacent exterior siding. To say this was a definite safety issue in my report was an understatement.

Sometimes, you have to love DIYers!

If you have questions or comments about heating issues or home inspections in general, tweet me (@AIHomeInspect).

ASBESTOS WHO? WHERE?

Did you know that ceiling tiles installed prior to 1980 may have asbestos in them? These tiles for ceiling structural purposes reached their height in popularity from 1950-1980. If these tiles are “friable” (i.e. become disturbed or airborne), they can create an environment that is unsafe for breathing. If your ceiling tiles are cracked, it is recommended that you get them tested for asbestos and, if present, paint or otherwise seal them as soon as possible.

Older homes semi-commonly have asbestos ceiling tiles installed which can potentially be a health risk. Asbestos is a natural yet dangerous mineral that, if disturbed and inhaled over long periods of time, can cause serious and/or deadly illnesses.

This material for building purposes, including floors, ceilings and walls is now regulated by the OSHA and EPA. If you have concerns about your ceiling (or other) tiles please check out this link for further information: How do I know if I have asbestos in my home (in floor tile, ceiling tile, shingles, siding, etc.)? | Asbestos | US EPA

STANDALONE SATURDAYS: WINTER IS COMING

On Saturdays throughout the year, I hope to give you a peek of what I see as a home inspector traveling around San Juan, Island, Whatcom, and Skagit counties through photos and videos I’ve taken along the way.

I’m sure if you know or live in Northwest Washington, you probably feel the same about how special it is here. That’s why I invite you to share your Northwest Washington imagery! Simply take your picture or video showing why you appreciate the region, and tag it with #AllIslandsLife on Twitter or Facebook.