There are many elements to a home that are evaluated during a home inspection and one of them is the attic. A home’s attic is far more important than most people realize and during an inspection, a number of different problems can be, and often are discovered. There are a lot of components to an attic space that ensures the condition of the entire home. JMark Inspections would like to share some of the common problems found in attics.

Attic Inspection Checklist

When inspecting the attic the inspector looks at key components such as the rafters, the trusses, insulation, ventilation, and the HVAC system. When inspecting these crucial components, often a home inspector will find a number of different flaws or problems such as:
Rafter and Truss Damage: Common in older homes, the rafters are discovered to be bowed or have splits. In newer homes, trusses are found to be installed improperly along with cracks or other damages caused by drill holes for electrical conduits or plumbing lines. Both the rafters and trusses hold up the main structure of the roof.
Insulation and Trusses: Many homes use fiberglass batts or blown cellulose insulation that lays on the attic floor. At times the insulation is found to cover or clog up the attic’s ventilation. Poor ventilation can cause condensation, mold, and other problems within the attic. Other problems with the insulation are the R-Value. The R-value range depends on the climate. Here in Texas, often the R-value is found to be too low and more insulation is needed. The attic insulation is essential as it is helps to maintain the home’s indoor temperature.
HVAC System in Attic: Many homes have its HVAC system in the attic. During an attic inspection the inspector will look for basic problems such as a clogged drain, leaking or damaged air ducts, and electrical problems. They are not HVAC technicians. However, inspectors often find basic or obvious problems that need repair.
Attic Water Damage: Water damage found in the attic is all too common. The roof can develop a leak or flashing can degrade and fail. Water damage is frequently found around roof wall joints, around chimneys, and the vents. Water damage is never good as it can ruin the attic insulation, rot the wood, and cause mold. Water damage can easily compromise the roof’s integrity.
Pests: In Texas, it is common to find pests in the roof. Pests such as rats, mice, raccoons, squirrels, and even birds have been found living in the attic. Wildlife creatures frequently destroy the attic and its many components. Pests can also bring contaminates into the home. Either way, finding pests in the attic is a major problem.

Home Inspections in Pasadena, Pearland, League City, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Conroe, Friendswood & Greater Houston, Texas

When having the home inspected for the purpose of buying, selling, or simply maintaining the home, it is important to have the attic inspected. The attic is an essential part of the home and requires a need to have proper maintenance. Luckily, a home inspector can help find anything wrong with the home’s attic. If any is discovered, the needed repairs can be done. For quality home inspections, contact JMark Inspections and schedule our services today.