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RADON TESTING
Radon is an invisible, odorless, radioactive, cancer-causing gas that occurs naturally from decaying uranium beneath the earth’s surface. Though you cannot see, smell, or taste it, the gas rises through the soil and seeps through cracks, holes, and drainpipes in the foundation or basements of buildings. Radon gas can be found all over the United States.
If your home does measure for high levels, not all is lost. High levels of radon can be remedied. The most important concern is your health, but should radon levels be high, you could save anywhere from $850 to several thousands of dollars with the installation of a mitigation system. At Wrubel Home Inspections, we use state-of-the-art, continuous, electronic monitors. These monitors take readings of the radon levels in the home every hour throughout the 48-hour test. After the conclusion of the test, we will email you the results to allow you to determine if radon remediation is necessary.
Wrubel Home Inspections is certified by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) to provide accurate radon measurements.
TERMITE INSPECTIONS
Termites and other wood-destroying insects – such as carpenter ants, powder post beetles, and carpenter bees – can cause major damage to a home. Termites tend to swarm in the late spring and will find any tiny opening in the home to enter and start building their colony. They only need a space 1/32 inches wide to enter, so even the smallest crack can be an issue.
THERE ARE FOUR MAIN WAYS TERMITES TEND TO ENTER A BUILDING
- Inside the holes of hollow block walls.
- Crawl up the side of foundations walls and supports.
- Through openings in expansion joints.
- Through cracks in the foundation around plumbing.
By identifying the weakness and vulnerable areas of your home, you might be able to make repairs, fill holes, and prevent termites from initially entering your home.
HERE ARE SIGNS OUR INSPECTORS WILL LOOK FOR WHEN CONDUCTING A TERMITE INSPECTION
- MUD TUBES - Worker termites create dirt-crusted tubes on walls, foundations, floors, and support joists. They use these tubes to travel about and often give a wall a rippled appearance.
- DAMAGED WOOD - Wood damaged by termites will often have a hollow sound and a honeycomb look to it inside. The material will probably crumble when you bump it or put pressure on it.
- LIVE TERMITES - Termites are not easily spotted when they are not swarming - as they tend to stay inside their colonies and tunnels - but by looking around walls and under materials, we can find these wood-destroying insects. Reproductive kings and queens have wings and are black or brown, while worker termites are white.
- DROPPINGS - May resemble sawdust or coffee grounds and can be found in mounds or trails.
- SWARMS - Swarms of termites or carpenter bees can be found near windows, doors, piles of wood and mulch, and tree stumps. After a swarm, you may see discarded wings.
If you suspect your home has a potential termite problem, or you just want to ensure that a new purchase is termite-free, Wrubel Home Inspections will conduct a thorough termite inspection: checking for potential infestations, damage, and the areas of the home in need of maintenance to prevent future problems. You can save thousands of dollars in potential future remediation and repairs by having a termite inspection conducted today.
POOL & SPA INSPECTIONS
A swimming pool can be one of the largest investments you make as a homeowner. Purchasing a home with a swimming pool or spa sounds exciting, but unknown problems could end up costing you thousands of dollars in repairs down the road. Before you purchase a home with a pool or spa, make sure you get a pool inspection to ensure that you and your investment are protected.
A POOL & SPA INSPECTION INCLUDES
- Visible Plumbing
- Electrical Equipment
- Decking Surfaces
- Safety Covers
- Main Drain
- Surrounding Fencing and Gates
SEPTIC INSPECTIONS
A septic system receives, treats and disposes of unwanted wastewater and solids from a building’s plumbing system. Solids are partially broken down into sludge within a septic tank and are separated from effluent (water) and scum (fat, oil, and grease). Effluent regularly exits the tank into a drain field where it is naturally filtered by bacteria and reentered into the groundwater. Scum and sludge must be pumped periodically and should never enter the drain field. The Septic tank should be pumped every 4-5 years.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
- Check for liquid waste that has made its way to the ground surface. This condition is unsanitary and indicates the system is overloaded.
- If riser lids are present, they should be inspected for cracks and security.
- We request septic layout diagram from county health department to determine where the lateral lines are.
Septic system basis to ensure proper function. The septic tank is the most expensive household fixture, and its lifespan will be significantly shortened if not maintained.
INFRARED SCANS
Infrared scans offer a way to visualize things that would otherwise go unseen. Our infrared cameras assist in detecting temperature variations to uncover potential problems such as wet areas, missing insulation, air leaks, and overheating electrical components. A scan is also a great launching point to discover ways to increase efficiency in your home.
MOST POPULAR SCANS
- Checking below kitchens and bathrooms for leaks after testing fixtures and appliance
- Scanning the main electric panel for overheating breakers or wires
- Looking at the upper-level ceilings for roof leakage
- Checking the basement for water leakage
- Evaluating the unknown source of leaks from walls or plumbing
ADDITIONAL AVAILABLE SCANS
- Water leak detection throughout a building
- Overheating electrical components and motors
- Missing insulation
- Air leak detection (typically part of an energy audit)
- EIFS inspections
- Flat roof scan (must be done at night)
MOLD SAMPLING
Let us provide you with an independent third-party evaluation. If you are worried about the possibility of mold contamination, request a mold sampling to help identify any potential dangers on your property.
THE BENEFITS OF MOLD INSPECTION SERVICES:
Mold can be destructive to both your home and health. It can also be hard to detect, especially if it is hiding in your home. Do not let hidden problems get the best of you when negotiating a price. Our technicians know what to look for when screening for mold and only recommend mold sampling when they are needed. We have the technology to take air samples on the spot and work with licensed laboratories to mold testing results. Negotiations or closing date and get the issue resolved.
In addition to hiring a for mold inspection, unlike most inspection companies, WHI will interpret the mold testing lab results for you and assist in making an informed decision on how to proceed with any remediation.
SPRINKLER SYSTEM INSPECTIONS
We assess the functionality of your landscape irrigation system and report on the system’s condition.
METH TESTING
Are you buying a new home? Maybe you are just renting a property, either a home or office. Then you need to be aware of one of the most dangerous conditions that can exist in your new home, methamphetamine contamination. The common misconception is that meth-contaminated properties are in the run-down parts of town.
With the rampant and pervasive use of this harmful drug ever increasing, its effects are permeating every social and economic strata of our nation. With the advent of cheaper methods of production and widespread experimentation on the part of today’s younger generation, meth contamination doesn’t discriminate based on age or location. It only takes a few hours to have your home or property tested and is very affordable as well. Our meth testing process is effective and noninvasive. Here is how the process takes place:
THE PROCESS
First, a single area is tested, generally inside the return air cavity of the furnace. We collect a small sample, which is then taken to the lab to determine if methamphetamine substances have been used or made in the property. If contamination exists, there are specific steps you must take to remediate the problem. We can explain this process to you. After the initial sample is submitted, you can expect the results in approximately 5 business days.
