2 Reasons Why Frost is Forming in My Attic?
I got a call from a past inspection client this morning. He has a valid concern: frost forming and water dripping from his decking – inside his attic. The frost forming in his attic is basic building science. 1) Super cold temps (frigid air)  are present in your attic and mixing with 2) Warm moist air […]
2 Reasons to Dump Your Grandmother’s Gas Space Heater
I remember my Grandmother’s kitchen (and her family room and her bathroom and her bedroom)!! She would say, “Come on in son and stand by the heater, you look cold!” I also remember another feature about her house. Her windows fogged up and dripped water during the winter months. With names like “Mr Heater” and “Empire Comfort” […]
The Smoke Detector That Talks to Your Smart Phone
Before turning on a loud, howling alarm, the Nest Protect gives you an early warning we call Heads-Up. Nest Protect lights up yellow and speaks with a human voice. It tells you where smoke is or when carbon monoxide levels are rising. This gives you an earlier warning if there’s an emergency, or allows you […]
Appraisal Institute Releases Helpful Addendum, Green Home Clarification
A few weeks ago I shared that “Greening the MLS” can help disclose the addition of energy efficient elements in residential construction and how that might affect the liabilities of the MLS system. Last week the Appraisal Institute introduced the Residential Green & Energy Efficiency Addendum, Version 2.0. Laura Stukel, an efficiency “insider,” is developing the Real Estate Transaction […]
How Secure Is Your Folding Stairway Pulldown
Normally, you’d find a string hanging from the cover of the stairway. For outside locations that might present a bit of a security issue. A quick pad lock will help secure the hatch. Done…unless there was NO string to pull!