Cracks in Brick and Mortar

HomeTeam inspected a house yesterday that was about 3 years old, and like so many other homes that age, the house had cracks in portions of the brick and mortar.

These types of cracks are very rarely an indication of structural or foundation problems (though they can be).  Usually, however, it is simply the cladding, the facade that has settled and cracked, and if that is the case there is no cause for alarm.  The fix is usually a choice between the more expensive (and hopefully more permanent) traditional tuck point, and a less expensive high-quality caulk.  BE FOREWARNED:  if you go the latter route, use an experienced mason.  He will mix the silicone-like substance with sand to give the seams a natural look while retaining some flexibility for the area.  Instances of poorly-matched or amateur fixes abound, and it is well worth the extra money to fix the cracks well rather than to have an eyesore for decades.

Till next time,

Brian

Winter weather

It is mighty cold this week- a frigid 8 degrees this morning as I pulled out of the garage.  Speaking of the garage, what a blessing to have an insulated garage door!  It takes the sting out of the morning drive, and the car warms up in a hurry since it has only cooled to 50 degrees instead of 8.

Anyway, if you have not winterized your sprinkler system, now is a good time to put the reminder for NEXT YEAR on your calendar.  A bit late for this year.

Those of you with crawlspaces should consider closing the vents if you have not yet done so.  With temperatures as low as they are, pipes can freeze.

Til next time,

Brian

The Team Approach

HomeTeam's concept is different- add value by bringing a team of experts to each inspection.  That means multiple sets of eyes review several key aspects you your home. 

Are you getting a warranty?  You'll need a licensed HVAC tech to inspect your system, and we are the only company around who brings one to the inspection.  Avoid the second call AFTER your home inspection- let us do it right the first time.

Best of all, our premium service is the same price as the one-man inspections.

Visit our website at www.HTLouisville.com to see a sample report and to check us out.

When you are ready to book, call 502-357-0813 or email team@HTLouisville.com.  Our office staff will be happy to answer any questions and schedule your appointment, another factor that sets us apart (in many other companies, it's hard to schedule since the inspector IS the company- if he's busy, you leave a message).