Southern Indiana home inspection company out shines other companies!

Certainty Home Inspections has a great system and did a great job on my Indiana home inspection. The website provides you with plenty of links to get you informed before the inspection begins. The inspector that we had was very informative and professional. The entire process was very pleasant from scheduling to the inspection. The report is top notch with a binder including all the suggestions with pictures of the areas that need addressed. I used a different company when we bought our previous house and it was not even in the same league. I would recommend Certainty without hesitation. Terry Steier Memphis Indiana 47143

Floyd county Indiana home inspector-Hazardous Flue Pipe

CSST Tubing

Corydon Indiana home inspector finds major roof problem

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Louisville Home Inspector Reports Double Tap

Double tapping is a term used to describe a condition created when two or more electrical connections are made at one terminal or breaker. Although commonly found, it is recommended that each branch or service wire be individually connected to their own terminal or breaker. Most breakers or terminals are designed to connect one single wire. Multiple connections at terminals or breakers runs a greater risk of the wires becoming loose and causing possible arcing and increasing the risk of fire. At Certainty, our inspections identify this type of electrical concern that should be corrected by a qualified electrician.
To the left is an example of double tapping, please visit other inspection discoveries at www.certaintyinspections.com

 

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Washington County Indiana home inspector-Poor Construction

Louisville Home Inspector-Severe Indiana Mold Issues

New Albany Indiana Home Inspector Finds Mold!

While inspecting a home in New Albany Indiana, Cory Kern, one of Certainty’s top inspectors noticed one of the worst cases of mold we have ever seen. This home has obviously had a moisture issue for some time. This home will require a mold remediation company to come in and remove this mold problem. At Certainty, we are ESA (Environmental Solutions Agency) certified mold inspectors. If you need your home tested for mold please give us a call at 866-417-9591. Don’t let your mold problem become worse, call and have your home inspected today.

What Is Spalling?

What is Spalling? Spalling is a term used to describe masonry deterioration in brick and or stone products due to moisture absorption or entry. Spalling (Broken or damaged brick surface) is more commonly seen on chimneys although foundations, retaining walls, sidewalks and driveways are also susceptible.
Moisture Problems? Chimneys that have moisture problems are normally found to have one or more of the following issues, the most common is that they are missing the rain/snow cap or have cracked chimney crowns and or improper flashings; these are some common causes of moisture entry on chimneys which can result in water entry including the spalling of masonry products. The freeze/thaw cycle of our northern climate is quick to cause this spalling damage with very little moisture entry required… Locating and correcting the area of moisture entry and repairing chimney brick spalling can be achieved by applying a breathable sealant which can slow or stop the effects of spalling. Our home inspectors constantly find chimneys in need of repair, especially on older homes. This is because the chimney is the one feature of a home that is constantly exposed to all the weather elements and therefore it’s more likely to suffer.
Chimney water damage is accelerated by deterioration from the freezing and thawing of moisture that has penetrated the masonry surface causing the chimney brick spalling and deterioration. This moisture entry can also cause interior damage to your chimney and possibly home. Clues to look for are: Mortar joints in need of repair, Spalled or broken brick surfaces, rusting inside the fire box or damper assembly.
Installing a rain or snow cap with screening is highly recommended not only to protect the inner flu but also the screen acts as a spark arrester and can prevent nesting.
Regular inspection and keeping the chimney crown well maintained and free from cracking and deterioration will ensure good protection from water entry. Most chimney crowns are made with mortar and quickly develop shrinkage cracks. Yearly maintenance will prolong the crowns life.
Because brick material is porous it will absorb water like a sponge and can wick moisture right through to the interior.  Water proofing products now exist that allow the brick to release moisture but not absorb it. Consulting a reputable professional contractor is highly recommended before attempting any repairs or preventative maintenance
Vegetation close to or in contact with brick surfaces can increase the brick moisture retention and cause moisture absorption related damages such as spalling and keeping vegetation trimmed back is important to allow ventilation. All other exterior masonry areas, including steps/stoops, patios/porches, walks and driveways can be porous and will allow moisture to be absorbed resulting in spalling. Monitoring these areas and performing preventative maintenance are crucial to prevent deterioration.