4 Remodelling Tips for Your Office: Small Changes, Big Impact

A study by the British Council of Offices and Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment on the impact of office design on business performance notes reports of the workplace being responsible for:

●      24% of job satisfaction

●      5% of individual performance

●      11% of team performance

The same study also cites a UK call centre’s staff turnover dropping by 11% after moving to new offices, and a Sydney financial services company’s staff turnover decreasing by 14% after an office refurbishment.

Could installing Betap Vienna floor covering to your office help you accomplish something similar?

The following are minor changes you can implement in your office that can significantly impact employees’ workplace experience. At the very least, these can help improve job satisfaction and individual and team performance, as well as help reduce staff turnover.

In other words, the following measures can potentially improve employee productivity and increase staff retention.

1.   Change to Carpet Tile Flooring

The importance of focus in an office setting cannot be overemphasised. Employees need to have a single-minded focus on their tasks to be productive. This is hard to achieve, of course, especially in a workplace full of noise and distractions. The average desk employee loses over two hours of work to distractions and interruptions every day.

Therefore, one thing you can do to enhance employee productivity is to reduce such distractions and interruptions. An excellent way to do this is to eschew the open layout for private cubicles.

Barring that, however, one minor change you can implement is to cover your old, scuffed and noisy flooring with carpet.

Wall-to-wall carpeting is the luxurious option, with its extra-plush backing that provides that gloriously soft, foot-sinking sensation. It is, however, a lot more expensive and might be less practical in high-traffic areas. Therefore, instead of wall-to-wall carpeting, why not change your old floor to carpet tiles instead?

Like the Vienna line of carpet tiles by Betap, carpet tiles are ideal in commercial spaces for the following reasons. 

Acoustic Benefits

Carpet tiles have a layered structure that helps them absorb sound. Specifically, they help deaden the sound of footsteps, structural sounds, and all other types of noises, even in high-traffic spaces. 

Design Versatility

You can configure carpet tiles in various ways to create a virtually infinite number of designs. There are solid-colored tiles and patterned tiles. You can go with the default design or shake things up a bit by combining different-colored and different-patterned tiles to create attractive bespoke layouts.

Practicality

Carpet tiles are also more practical than wall-to-wall carpets, especially for high-traffic areas. When one of the carpet tiles is worn out, you can take it out and replace it with a new one. While spot repairs are also possible with wall-to-wall carpets, spot repairing a carpet is more complicated than tile replacement.

2.   Change to Wallpaper

 The whole ambiance of your office can change with a change in wall colour and design. A simple colour change can uplift your space and make it feel more welcoming instead of drab and lacklustre.

Yes, you can bring about the same change by having your office repainted. However, wallpaper is better if you want additional noise reduction benefits.

 Acoustic wallpaper can provide such benefits. For instance, Texdecor’s acoustical wallcoverings have a sound absorption coefficient of 0.15 to 0.3, which means they can help dampen reverberation and resonance noises that distract and cause discomfort.

The only thing better than acoustic wallpaper in office spaces is soundproofing your walls. However, this might involve ripping the drywall in your existing walls (perhaps even the ceiling) so you can fill the space with fibreglass and insulation. You can just imagine the amount of expense and work this involves.

You can also install acoustic panels instead. This is a less involved process than filling walls and ceilings with insulation material, but it is still more complicated, not to mention costlier than installing acoustic wallpaper.

3.   Reupholster Your Furniture

Have the seats in your office seen better days? You can get them reupholstered in a different fabric. This will not only give your office a fresh look, but it will also give you the chance to improve the experience of your guests.

There are so many performance fabrics with superior abrasion resistance, lightfastness, colour fastness, and pilling resistance, among so many other wonderful traits. They will elevate the way your sofas look and feel and provide a remarkable change for your office as well.

4.   Let In More Natural Light

If you can, ‌add more windows to your office. This will amplify the amount of natural light in your office, which will drastically improve your space. Greater exposure to daylight has been known to improve mood and morale, as well as reduce fatigue and eye strain.

If adding windows is too expensive, you can do the next best thing: change your lighting to something that approximates daylight.

Changes for a Better Workplace

You can increase staff productivity by enrolling your employees in reskilling and upskilling programs.

However, do not neglect the work setting and how it affects how people work. There are minor changes you can implement in your office that can significantly impact people’s productivity and how they feel about their work.

AUTHOR BIO

James Prathap is the General Manager at NGC Nafees, top importers and exporters of wallpapers, flooring and fabric in the Middle East. The business also offers high-quality panoramics, coordinated fabrics, and creative stickers for residential and commercial projects.

HOW TO ENSURE YOUR AIR-QUALITY IS GOOD DESPITE HUMIDITY AND HEAT

With outdoor air pollution being a continuous threat to your health, ensuring adequate air quality inside your home is more crucial than ever. Unfortunately, the warmer months only exacerbate the effects of the pollution - and not just because of the high temperatures. Spring and summer bring high pollen concentrations, increased water usage, and higher evaporation rates, causing humidity. Here is how to ensure your air quality remains good, despite warm and humid weather.

Eliminate Pollutants

The first step in improving your air quality is addressing the pollution level, regardless of the temperature. Eliminate sources of smoke and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) such as formaldehyde. The latter is often emitted by glue used in new composite furniture, so you should opt for used pieces instead. The use of cleaning products and household chemicals should also be limited to reduce the level of compounds they emit. Lastly, try to eliminate any sources of allergens like mold, dander, and dust mites.

Improve Ventilation

While ensuring proper ventilation in your space is always necessary, it's even more crucial when outdoor temperatures are higher. The best solution for this during the warmer months is using an air conditioning system. If you already have an HVAC system or AC unit installed, ensure you have it serviced regularly by a licensed professional. It is recommended that you do your research and only contemplate professionals who can verifiably provide a 5 star service for your specific type of air conditioning system. This also applies if you don't have an air conditioning system and are just getting ready to install them.

Reduce Humidity 

An air conditioning unit will typically work for reducing indoor humidity as well. If it doesn't, you either aren't using it properly, or it's not functioning as it should. Try to resolve these issues as soon as possible so your unit can resume eliminating humidity from your space - alongside common pollutants. Preventing evaporation and excess water use may also help you reduce humidity levels in your home.

Use Air Purifiers

Even if your air conditioning system eliminates humidity and heat, you may still find indoor air pollution too high. If you aren't able to eradicate all the pollution sources from your home, the next best option is to invest in air purifiers. Most of these come with a high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter, which is more effective in removing parts from the air than traditional air conditioning units. These are particularly valuable for people suffering from allergies.

Get Indoor Plants

House plants can also help you ensure you have good indoor air quality. Besides eliminating particles, greenery can also help you regulate humidity, oxygen, and carbon dioxide levels. Make sure to use plants with an increased air-purifying ability, such as Peace Lily or Dracaena, which can effectively combat the effects of high volatile compounds. That said, you will also need to ensure these plants don't become the source of the problem by becoming moldy or releasing pollen.

The key to preventing humidity from aggravating air pollution in your home is to lower it as much as possible. Typically, this can be solved with an efficient air conditioning system. However, if needed, you can also employ other techniques like using an air purifier that helps eliminate the pathogens from the air. And, of course, you mustn't forget about the natural air purifying quality of plants either. They will help regulate humidity and improve your comfort levels regardless of the indoor temperatures.

Renovations by Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing

If you didn’t know by now, we do bathroom and kitchen remodels. We have a great group of plumbers who are skilled and know what they’re doing when it comes to upgrading and picking out the best fixtures to bring together the bathroom or kitchen. Logan, Todd, Ramon and Ryan are the best crew that work together to tackle these remodels. If you’re interested in a renovation, give us a call at 708-845-7922 to set up an estimate and get a renovation project started!

Just Bought A New House? Here Are Some Helpful Tips

Buying a new house is one of the biggest events in our lives. However, everything does not end with the mere purchase of the house. Moreover, it is the beginning of a long list of actions that you have to take. In the first place, you need to decorate the interior of the house. This means that you have to get rid of the old things and refresh the house. This consists of getting new furniture and finally decorating the home. Once you finish all this, you can call your home a “sweet home” and feel comfortable in it. 

To that end, here are some helpful tips on how to turn your new house into the home of your dreams!

Cleaning

Once you step your foot into a newly bought house, the first thing you should opt for is a thorough cleaning. This is important because it would make no sense to completely furnish your home without giving it prior cleaning. In that sense, make sure you first get rid of all the old things in the home. Once you get it empty, you can start cleaning freely. Likewise, you can hire cleaning professionals if you think your home needs a really thorough cleaning. After this part is finished, you can freely start furnishing the rooms in the house!

Living room arrangement

Since we spend most of our time in the living room during the day, it should be the object of most investment. Starting with the basic elements, moving on to furniture placement, and finishing with the smallest living room decoration. To that end, you must buy furniture that is both beautiful and comfy if you want your family and visitors to always feel at ease in your living room. 

The quality is crucial, in addition to having a lovely appearance and being comfortable. Quality should always come first if you want your furniture to last as long as possible without experiencing any major or minor issues.

Furniture 

Furniture is a crucial element of any house. However, since there is a great variety on the market of different pieces of furniture, it is sometimes difficult to choose the one that suits your home. Nevertheless, you can start by deciding on the style you want your living room or bedroom to have. If, for example, you prefer the French style or anything similar to it, you may find furniture elements, as seen at HomesDirect365, that can suit your preferences. Once you get the right furniture in your new home, you can finally relax and enjoy it, since everything else will be much easier!

Contemporary armchairs and stools

You can also place a variety of other armchairs in the living room, which you will select based on your needs, in addition to the armchairs that come with the sets. There are various sizes and styles available. You can find armchairs that are incredibly compact, aesthetically pleasing, and well suited to their purpose. They can have slimmer seats, more aesthetically pleasing armrests, and thinner backrests. 

On the other hand, stools are another piece of furniture that may be quite useful and also enhance the appearance of your living space. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, the most popular being round and square. They can also be upholstered in any hue, tone, and material, flat or with buttons. Similarly, stools are useful for storing small items that accumulate in the living room and are particularly great for keeping children's toys organized because they can be made with an opening lid!

Colors

Rarely does anybody dare to do a color experiment in their home because it is typically believed that the color pattern should be in neutral hues. However, if you are one of the individuals who disagree with the norm and your apartment is predominantly decorated with white materials (walls, flooring, some furniture, beams, or components), there are countless design options for you.

First of all, you should be aware that the ambiance in a room is influenced by the contrast between lighting and color, and it is up to you to select the hues that are most comfortable for you. For example, it is good to get a red chair in a white environment, or some other yellow element if you want your area to seem warmer and cozier. In any case, the important thing is that you combine the strong colors of the furniture with the neutral colors of the walls. Likewise, you can use the color effects to manipulate perception. For instance, black can make the item appear smaller than it is, making it ideal for compact areas!

With these tips, your home will soon feel just like the one of your dreams. Good luck!

6 Types Of Renovations To Consider When Moving To A New House

Are you in the process of moving to a new house? If so, you may be wondering what renovations you should consider. There are many different types of renovations that can be made, and it can be difficult to decide which ones are right for you. In this blog post, we will discuss six types of renovations that are commonly made when moving to a new house.

1) Painting

One of the most common types of renovations is painting. This can be a great way to change the look and feel of your new home.

If you are not sure what color to paint your walls, you may want to consider hiring a professional painter. They will be able to help you choose the right colors for your home. Also, if you are not comfortable with painting, they can also do the job for you. Painting is a relatively inexpensive renovation that can have a big impact on the look and feel of your new home. So make sure you consider this option when you are looking at renovations.

2) Flooring

Another common type of renovation is flooring. This is a great way to change the look of your home and make it more comfortable. There are many different types of flooring that you can choose from, so you will need to decide what is right for you. If you have pets, you may want to consider hardwood floors. These are durable and easy to clean. If you have allergies, you may want to consider carpet. Carpet is a great way to trap dust and allergens. But it is important to remember that carpets need to be vacuumed regularly in order to keep them clean. So make sure you take all of these things into consideration when you are choosing your flooring.

3) Kitchen renovation

A kitchen renovation can be a great way to update your new home. If your kitchen is outdated, you may want to consider renovating it. There are many different things that you can do to update your kitchen, including painting the walls, installing new cabinets, and replacing the flooring. If your kitchen is in good condition, you may not need to do a complete renovation. But if it is in need of some updating, you may want to consider this option. Don't forget to consider your budget when you are planning your kitchen renovation. The folks at RebornRenovations.com explain how it is important to discuss all the details and make a full plan to avoid any hidden expenses during or after the renovation. This is one of the most important rooms in your house, so you want to make sure it is perfect and within your budget!

4) Bathroom renovation

Like the kitchen, the bathroom is another room that can be easily updated with a renovation. If your bathroom is outdated or in need of some repair, you may want to consider this option. There are many different things that you can do to update your bathroom, including painting the walls, installing new fixtures, and replacing the flooring. If your bathroom is in good condition, you may not need to do a complete renovation. But if it is in need of some updating, you may want to consider this option. You can also think of some creative ways to update your bathroom on a budget. For example, you can add some new towels or rugs to give it a fresh look.

5) Electrical wiring

Another common type of renovation is electrical wiring. If your home is not up to code, you may want to consider updating the wiring. This is a dangerous job, so it is important to hire a professional electrician to do the work. electrical wiring is a necessary renovation, so make sure you budget for it. For example, professionals recommend that you budget $500 to $1000 for electrical wiring when renovating your home. Also, make sure you get the work done by a professional electrician. This is not a job that you want to do yourself.

6) Roofing

Another common renovation is roofing. If your roof is in need of repair, you may want to consider getting it replaced. This is a big job, so it is important to hire a professional roofer to do the work. For example, professionals recommend that you budget $3000 to $5000 for roofing when renovating your home. So make sure you take this into consideration when you are planning your renovation. Roofing is important because it protects your home. So make sure you get it done right.

Renovations can be a great way to update your new home. There are many different types of renovations that you can consider, including flooring, kitchen renovation, bathroom renovation, electrical wiring, and roofing. It is important to think about your budget when planning your renovations. Make sure you discuss all the details with a professional before starting any renovations. This will help you avoid any hidden expenses. With a little planning, you can renovate your new home on a budget!

Is Your House Showing Wear And Tear? Follow These Tips To Give It Some Shine

People frequently forget about the outside of their homes when they are busy remodeling and decorating the inside. Nonetheless, the outside of a home is perhaps its most crucial component. Being the first thing guests see, it should represent your style and personality. Given the fact that, over time, wear and tear are inevitable, you should seriously consider giving it some shine. To that end, here are some tips on how to give your home some shine!

Clean the gutters

Gutters are an important element of every house since they protect it from rainwater. However, over time, the gutters can easily become filled with leaves, mold, dirt, and other kinds of debris. Such gutters can easily give off a rather negative impression of your house. Likewise, clogged gutters can also lead to water leakage and damage. What is more, your foundation may suffer water damage as a result of damaged gutters!

Nevertheless, you can always give your house its old shine by either changing or cleaning them. Indeed, no one likes cleaning their gutters, but the material may accumulate there during the winter and not become visible until the snow melts. So, on the first sunny day, make sure you clean up any debris and check for leaks. 

Windows 

Windows are one of the key elements of a house. Not only do they provide it with the necessary protection from external effects, but they also give it a good

aesthetic look. However, if your windows and shutters are already dirty and shabby, it is time you replaced (if needed) or cleaned them. Therefore, clean your windows thoroughly so you can take in the springtime blooms both inside and out. 

A decent steam machine may provide astounding results. Additionally, gently remove your screens. Your home's exterior will certainly look much better and shinier! 

Roof examination

The roof is the crown of the house. However, this does not refer to aesthetics alone. In other words, a damaged roof can only lead to further damage to your house. Therefore, it is essential that you have your roof examined and repaired or replaced. Some people with a lot of experience might be able to accomplish this on their own. If you do your own examination, you should search for exposed nail heads, gaps around vents or chimneys, and debris in valleys and up against dormers or chimneys. The ideal substance for covering exposed nails and filling gaps is roofing cement. You might also need to get some shingles replaced. 

On the other hand, instead of experimenting yourself, it is best that you actually hire a professional. To that end, with Matador Exteriors, your roof will be brought back to life, and this will give your entire house a completely new look. Although winter might harm your roof, summer rain storms can take advantage of it to create leaks and water issues. Likewise, in order to prevent water from seeping into your foundations, keep your roof free of leaks.

Clean the garage door

The garage is a great and functional place for a house. It also complements the house’s appearance, especially the door. However, a garage door can have the opposite effect if it is muddy and damaged. To that end, use the same method of pressure washing as with the windows and shutters and give the garage door its old shine, and your house will look nicer as well!

Revive the front door

Upgrading and replacing the front door is one of the simplest ways to brighten up the exterior of your home. Everyone who visits you will encounter the front door, which serves as a miniature representation of your home's face. If the door is too old and shabby, it should be replaced. 

Otherwise, you can just remove it from its hinges, sand it down, and repaint it! But one thing is for certain, once you put your newly painted door in its place, your home will be much more welcoming and livelier! 

Paint the decking 

There is so much you can do yourself in order to enhance the appearance of your home. For example, simply mend any blemishes and damage to your porch and decking for a quick and low-cost remedy. Once it's up to par, cover the upgrades with a couple of coats of durable exterior paint. Also, you may think of adding some newer and livelier colors. This way, your home will look new and you will feel more comfortable in it.

Make sure you implement these awesome pieces of advice and your home will shine in no time!

Top 6 Maintenance Services You Need for Your New Home

Congratulations on your new house! Now that construction and the paperwork are in order, you’re ready to move into your new home.

But before you can get settled and begin living a peaceful life there, you must first plan for home maintenance.

Like people, your house needs regular check-ups for its upkeep. It is also crucial in maintaining efficiency in your home, not to mention it helps you save money from costly repairs down the road.

Moreover, maintenance increases property value, albeit indirectly. It is also crucial for your home warranties since those don’t usually cover wear due to neglect and lack of care.

In short, you need plenty of professional help in keeping your home in tip-top shape. Besides the occasional repairs, your home would fare better through the years with the top six maintenance services listed below:

1.  AC Servicing

Air conditioning is a godsend innovation, especially in countries with warm climates like the United Arab Emirates. This is because an AC not only helps keep you comfortable inside your home but it also enhances the quality of air you breathe indoors.

Besides enjoying its extensive benefits longer, maintaining your AC system supports better energy efficiency and reduces repair costs.

Ideally, you need to have your AC serviced every six months. Professionals who offer this type of service keep the air-conditioning system in good shape by performing the following tasks:

●      Assessing cooling efficiency

●      Checking and disinfecting air-conditioning components

●      Inspecting the condition of the thermostat

●      Evaluating airflow balance

●      Providing recommendations on repairs that may be needed

Take note that AC maintenance may need to be performed more frequently because of heavier use due to the warm weather. Likewise, HVAC filters must be replaced every one to two months during summer.

Besides AC maintenance check-ups, you may also require other services focused on the specific parts of your air-conditioning system, such as:

Duct Cleaning

Experts recommend performing monthly duct cleaning to maintain good airflow and AC efficiency. However, it can also be carried out if one or more of the following signs emerge before the scheduled maintenance:

●      Visible accumulation of dirt on the AC vents

●      Retention of foul-smelling odours inside the house

●      Allergy symptoms

●      Respiratory issues

Coil Cleaning

Besides the air ducts, the coils also need particular attention to ensure that your AC works optimally for longer.

Like the air ducts, they also affect how well the air conditioning system can eliminate foul odours, improve airflow and air quality, and ensure efficiency.

Some of the signs that indicate the need for coil cleaning are:

●      Insufficient cooling

●      Reduced airflow

●      Water leaks from the coil

●      Frozen evaporator coils

2.  Plumbing Services

Besides your air conditioning, another system you should remember to maintain in your new home is the plumbing.

A well-maintained plumbing system supports hygiene while ensuring efficient water use. In most cases, it also aids in reducing water consumption, especially in desert cities like Dubai.

Of course, it’s not just the amount of water used up that should matter. You also need to pay heed to the health of the water pipes and other plumbing components and watch out for any signs of leakage. If you find any in the toilet or sink, make sure to have those fixed immediately.

Also, check if water pressure is optimal because the plumbing connections, pipes, and appliances could get busted if it’s too high. Plus, having too-high water pressure can waste massive amounts of precious water.

3.  Water Tank Cleaning

You also need to have your water tank cleaned periodically – ideally once every six months. This will ensure optimal performance from your tank and pump system.

This expert cleaning service also prevents debris build-up and keeps your water clean and safe to drink. Also, it could potentially extend the lifespan of your water tank and reduce repair costs at the same time.

Some of the tasks included in water tank cleaning services include:

●      Inspection

●      Mechanical and pressure washer cleaning

●      Disinfection

4.  Handyman

Most handyman service providers cover a variety of tasks applied across the entire house. They can handle almost anything, including the occasional grout and caulking, repainting, repairs, and even appliance installation and furniture assembly right after your move.

Although there’s no set schedule for these tasks, having a professional handyman on your contacts list could prove useful when the time comes. This is especially true a couple of months to a year into your new home, when it’s time to regrout or replace your bathroom or kitchen tiles.

These experts can also help recaulk your bathroom, which prevents moisture damage to the walls and floor (or ceiling if the bathroom is on the upper floor).

Besides this, your trusted handyman can also help perform roof inspections to ensure that there are no damaged shingles or blocked gutters. This particular task should never be included in your do-it-yourself home projects, as it can be dangerous without the proper safety gear, skill, and experience that qualified experts have.

Some of these professionals also handle:

●      Inspection and repair of seals around windows and doors

●      Smoke alarm installation and maintenance

5.  Painting Services

Typically done during springtime, painting and repainting are vital aspects of house maintenance.

Covering cracks and peels with a fresh coat of paint keeps moisture at bay. As a bonus, it also refreshes your home and serves as an opportune time to update its appearance.

Repainting can be done every five years or so, but that would still depend on the condition of your house. To be sure, watch out for the following signs that indicate the need for a repaint:

●      Fading exterior or interior paint

●      Deep stains on the walls or ceilings

●      Peeling paint

Repainting is also a great way to boost the value of your property in case you plan to put it up for sale.

6.  Electrical Services

Many things in your house are powered by electricity, which means you’ll need a qualified electrician in your phonebook should repairs be needed.

Remember to leave electrical work to qualified professionals, as most of these tasks could be dangerous when performed without the skill and experience required for the job.

Among the things that merit a call to a licensed electrician include:

●      Power surges

●      Busted light fixtures

●      Lights that burn out frequently

●      Sagging voltage

●      Dead outlets

●      Circuit breaker trips

Live Comfortably in Your New Home

Like people, a house needs regular check-ups as part of its upkeep.

A well-cared-for home not only helps you save on repair costs but also allows you to live comfortably in it with your family.

Guest Contributor: Chiyako Ikeda

How Roof Inspections Are Done Throughout The Year

Roof maintenance is vital for protection against harsh weather and to enhance the comfort of your home.

Given the functions and location, your roof faces a high exposure to the elements.Damage and deterioration are bound to happen over time. You don’t want to wait until you notice a significant hitch before calling a roof maintenance company.

We’ll explain what a roof inspection is, when it’s needed, and why you should consider getting one.

What Is a Roof Inspection?

A roof inspection is a series of checks that roofers perform to determine your roof’s structural integrity. After this process takes place, you’ll have a clear picture of several factors that include:

• Your roof’s relative age and lifespan

• Whether you need roof repairs

• Whether you need to invest in a replacement roof

When Should You Have a Roof Inspected?

 Schedule reschedule inspections and maintenance with your roofers, even if you don’t suspect any problems. Some seasons and situations increase the need for assessment even if your roof isn’t due for a scheduled inspection. You should request a roof inspection before potential damages worsen and you’re on the hook for major repairs.

Roof work is often done in warm weather, so schedule your inspection before the cold weather sets in. Late summer and early fall are ideal times to repair a roof, so try to get an assessment around these seasons, unless you have an emergency. This way, you can ensure your gutters and roof are in good condition before winter begins.

Winter is associated with snow and ice dams that form on poorly insulated roofs or roofs that don’t shed water and debris properly. If your reason for inspection is to catch potential problems before winter, don’t wait until the onset of winter. 

Other than seasonal changes, several different situations can also call for a roof inspection.

After a Storm

Storms and their associated winds can damage your roof and roof components. Schedule a roof inspection from a professional inspector and your insurance company if you suspect this to be the case. You can get an accurate estimate of needed repairs as well as a report of the damage to file an insurance claim.

When Your Roof Is Old

The older your roof gets, the more the risk of severe damage increases. Older roofs call for more inspections and maintenance than newer roofs to be maintained properly.

If your roof is over 15 years, you’re likely due for a replacement. But some roofs can last longer than 20 years, so you should always request frequent inspections to determine when you need a replacement. 

Before You Sell Your House

When you want to sell a house, appraisers will inspect your roof systems’ conditions. If your roof has damage, you’ll have to make the necessary changes to abide by proper standards or have your home appraised for a higher value.

Buyers might also shy away from a property with underlying problems, such as a faulty roof. Issues such as mold and water damage decrease a home’s value.

What To Expect During Roof Inspections

Roof damage can occur in different ways. Your roofer will do an internal and external inspection to determine issues and their causes.

Ultimately, roof inspection is comprised of four faucets:

• Materials

• Interior

• Artistry

• Structure

Material Inspection

Materials that form your roof include:

• Shingles

• Flashings

• Fasteners

• Gutters

A material inspection involves checking the above parts for faults or misalignments. Roofers look for include mold, rust, curled or missing shingles, and deteriorated rubber seals (among other potential problems).

Interior Inspection

Most roof problems originate from the exterior but can affect your house’s interior. Besides the interior roof, some components like the ceiling and upper wall can also suffer from roof problems. For instance, roof leaks can damage the ceiling and walls and cause rot and mold growth.

Workmanship Inspection

Workmanship problems can increase the risk of leaks and future roof damage. Such issues include incorrect flashing around penetration like skylights and chimneys, all of which can be detected during an inspection.

Structural Inspection

Roofers look for sags and uneven roof planes during inspections. They then determine the conditions of the gutter, soffit, and fascia. 

The structural inspection also includes checking the attic’s vents. Improper vents can cause moisture and heat build-up, reducing your roof’s life expectancy.

What Do Roof Inspectors Look For?

Before hiring a roofing contractor, have a checklist of all roof components that you suspect need an inspection. You can only understand your roof’s overall condition if you get a report of all potentially damaged parts.

Below are the areas of a roof that contractors will typically inspect:

Gutters and Downspouts

Roof inspectors always inspect how your gutters are attached. That part of your roof should be free of still water. The downspouts should also be firm in place. Otherwise, rainwater and snow will leak to other parts of your house.

Skylight

Skylight replacement is an intrusive process for your roof. If your skylight works fine but is almost at the end of the life cycle, consider a skylight replacement alongside roof repairs. Otherwise, you may interfere with some parts of your roof if you do a separate skylight replacement.

Flashing

Flashing consists of metal, plastic, or other materials that divert water from the joint between the wall and the roof. Your flashing always has to be in perfect condition to prevent water damage, as the flashing is often the main entry point for water into a house.

Attic

During an inspection, roof experts look for common attic problems like ventilation issues and rotten wood . Stains and water damage are easy to spot on bare wood, hence you learn the exact point where the problem is occuring.

Chimney

The chimney is a roof component that calls for close-up inspection in order to catch problems early. For instance, if a roof cricket (also called chimney saddles, designed to divert precipitation and debris from your chimney) directs water away, your inspector will do a close check to identify the cricket. Otherwise, precipitation will trickle down your chimney and cause water damage.

Roof Penetration

Roof vents, vent pipes, and other installations create holes in your roof upon installation. Sealants, seals, flashing, and boots cover the gaps that are created. During an inspection, your roofer will check the conditions of both the penetrating material and the bonds.

Why Should You Have a Roof Inspection?

You should always conduct roof inspections regularly because your roof is a vital component of your home. Never gamble on a roof’s expected lifespan - the repercussions might cost you comfort, peace of mind, and high replacement or repair costs. 

With regular roof inspection, you also reap these benefits:

Early Identification of Roofing Issues

Some roofing problems that are ignored at their early stages can evolve into hazardous situations.

For example, one missing shingle doesn’t appear to be a big problem. But this small flaw exposes part of your roof to infestations and water damage. 

Frequent roof inspections will enable your contractor to spot such issues and do minor repairs right away. But if these issues are ignored for a long time, you will incur a costly repair and may need partial or total roof replacement.

Most roof problems arise from Mother Nature, some are caused by human behavior. A roof inspector can catch such issues early and suggest possible courses of action to reduce the risks of roof damage.

Enhanced Security

A weak roof is a target entry point for thieves, especially if the weakness is visible from the outside. Holes and open skylights are potential dangers that make it easy to cut through the roof. Roof inspection identifies all weak points of a roof so you can reinforce it for better security.

Professional vs. DIY Inspection: Which Is the Way To Go?

If your roof is still relatively new, you can check for noticeable signs of damage from the ground. You don’t have to go up the top to notice curled or missing shingles.

Nonetheless, roof maintenance doesn’t simply involve a hop on the roof or an inspection from the ground.A professional can catch problems you can miss if you only do a self-inspection. For example, granule loss and issues with the chimney may escape your eyes.

A DIY roof inspection also poses the danger of falls and other injuries, which you avoid if you hire a trained expert. If your roof is old or you have other known potential damages, hiring a professional is the right way to go.

What Happens After a Roof Inspection?

Once your roofer is through with the inspection, you get a detailed report also known as a roof analysis. The report details your roof’s structural integrity, any necessary repairs, and recommended roof maintenance tips.

Some people are scared of roof inspections because of the possibility of discovering that a massive repair or replacement needs to take place (resulting in a massive bill). If you’re in the category that is afraid of extensive repairs, understand that ignorance is never a solution. The longer you avoid the damage, the higher the chances of a hefty bill.

Besides, not all roof analyses will report problems. Your roof could be in perfect shape and a good roofer will not suggest unnecessary repairs. Many roofers offer a free inspection, so you don’t always have to pay unless you need a repair or replacement.

Final Thoughts on Roof Inspections

Your roof goes through a lot throughout a year, especially if you experience harsh weather conditions. With regular inspections, you avoid the hassle of significant inconveniences and costly repairs or replacements. Routine inspections and maintenance can help keep your roof and home in optimal condition for a longer period of time than if you just left it alone.

Louis Hanley

Community Manager

Baltic Roofing

Louis is a community manager for Baltic Roofing where they help the greater Chicago community with everything from high-quality roof replacements to skylight repairs. He is an expert on all things roofing and home improvement. Outside of work, he’s a huge Cubs fan and enjoys spending time with his dog, Roscoe.

Why it is Important to Get Your New Home Inspected

The home buying experience is an exciting time for anyone. Once you have decided to buy a new home, you have already taken a huge step towards making your dream come true. After picking out the perfect house, most will go into purchasing their new home without conducting a thorough inspection. Conducting an inspection is quite important as it will help you avoid unforeseen costs and problems later on while living in your new home. As such, below are some important reasons why inspections should be conducted before purchasing a new home:

You Do Not Want to Buy a Money Pit

A money pit is any purchase that will cost more to maintain than the property's value. For example, if you buy a $100,000 house that needs $20,000 worth of repairs, it's still a great deal for you to buy it. It costs less than what you're paying for.

You may think about it another way. Imagine that you're buying a $100,000 house and have an opportunity to buy three other houses (all located in the same neighborhood) for $60k each. One of those properties needs $40k worth of repairs, and another needs $20k. Which do you think would be best? The one with no repairs or that needs some minor ones.

If your new home inspector finds something wrong with your new home before closing, they should immediately let the seller know. They can fix whatever issue before selling their property to someone else.

You Will Know if There are Safety Issues

When you are buying a home, there are many things that you need to consider before signing the dotted line. One thing that many people don't think about is getting the house inspected. When buying a home, you need to work with a professional inspector such as Clovis home inspectors to check all the systems in the house. This will include checking electrical and plumbing issues so they don't become an issue later.

It is important to make sure that any safety issues are addressed. Such can be very expensive if left unaddressed or ignored over time. Some safety issues might cause an inspector not to approve a property sale. This could lead them to lose money on their investment when trying to sell it later down the road. Such needs repairs before anyone else wants to buy or rent out this property.

Know the Estimated Lifespan of Certain Items

A home inspection will help you understand the lifespan of certain items in your new home. Your inspector can tell you if they are past their life expectancy and whether the item is still safe to use. This information helps you know how long it will take for those items to need replacement or repair.

For example, if the inspector finds that one of your window screens has tears and that water can get through them easily during a rainstorm, they might recommend replacing this screen immediately. There is no guarantee that it won't suffer more damage after heavy rains begin again next year.

It Can Put You at Ease

One of the most important reasons to inspect your home is to put you at ease. As you prepare to buy a home, you may worry about how much money it will cost. You may also be concerned about whether the house will need expensive repairs. A home inspection can help alleviate some of these fears by giving an idea of what work must be done on the house before closing the deal. They will let you know if any major safety issues need attention. They also provide valuable information about the lifespan of appliances and other items in your home. They also give insight into how long it takes for certain systems like heating/cooling, water pipes, or electrical wiring to break down over time.

Conclusion

No matter how much you want to speed through the process, an inspection of your new home is essential. It's a necessary step that ensures you do not get stuck with a building requiring significant repairs and modifications. A thorough home inspection can help put your mind at ease in knowing that every aspect of your home has been looked at by a professional inspector and approved for use.

Guest Contributor: Hannah Boothe

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