Brewer Inspection Services

Daylight Savings Time begins this weekend!! We SPRING FORWARD one hour. Don't forget to change batteries in your smoke detectors when you change your clocks. Have a great weekend!

Window Wells & Egress Windows. What's the difference?? A window well is installed at basement windows that are installed at or below the grade level of your home, to create adequate distance between the window opening and soils or ground cover. Basement windows provide light and fresh air, but without a proper window well, you could experience moisture intrusion, insect damage, and/or water damage/wood rot. An egress window is a basement window that also provides a means to ...exit the basement in the event of an emergency. Check with your local municipal or jurisdiction to determine possible requirements for an egress window. It's not uncommon to find a drain system used at egress windows. Most use a gravel infill, while others will use a formal drain system. If a drain exists, it should not be connected to the sanitary sewer system for the house. Additionally, it is not uncommon for these drains to be connected to a sump and pump system, which will require routine maintenance. In conjunction with the window well or egress window, the installation of a grate or cover is also beneficial. A water repelling cover is recommended at window wells, and a structural grate is always needed at an egress window for safety. These can help minimize leaves and debris build-up, and fall protection.

Let's talk ground slope. Having a positive slope away from the foundation of your home is so important. A negative slope can result in leaks, pressure against the foundation or other drainage issues. Ideally, the ground at the perimeter of your house/foundation benefits by a slope away from the house of about 6 inches over 10 feet. Areas with a negative or insufficient slope can be corrected. One option is to add soils to the foundation side. Other options include creating lo...w-lying areas or swales, or other means in an effort to redirect run off water out and away from the building. Compaction of soils is common, over time, in newer homes as a result of backfill, and this is something you will want to monitor over the years. Also, diverting all downspouts and discharge pipes out and away from the foundation is recommended. This time of year is a great time to check for a proper slope. If repairs need to be made, you have time before vegetation growth and spring rains. A qualified landscaping contractor can help you obtain a proper slope.

January is National Radon Month. When was the last time you had a radon test done in your home? Have you ever had Radon test done? Do you currently have a Radon mitigation system in your home? Did you know...... radon levels can fluctuate the EPA recommends testing every 2 years the only way to know for sure that your mitigation system is functioning properly is to have a radon test done radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind smoking it is a colorless and odorless gas caused by the breakdown of uranium in the soils elevated levels of Radon can be found in all types of house...new or old, basement or slab Any other questions? Feel free to ask or comment below.

Whether you celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah, we at Brewer Inspection Services want to wish you and your family the happiest of holidays. May your holiday bring you joy and wonderful memories, for hearts of all ages. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!