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Sidewalks and Driveway
Spalling concrete cannot be patched with concrete because the new will not bond with the old. Water can collect between the two layers, or the patching will break up from movement or wear. Replacement of the damaged portions is generally the only feasible corrective measure for this condition. Retaining Walls Retaining walls can deteriorate because of excessive pressure build-up behind them, generally due to water accumulation. Often conditions can be improved by excavating a trench behind the retaining wall and filling it with coarse gravel. Drain holes through the wall will then be able to relieve the water pressure. Steel rods can also be used to help stabilize retaining walls but these must be carefully installed and should be installed only by qualified personnel. Retaining walls sometimes suffer from tree root pressure or from general movement of top soil down the slope. Normally these conditions require rebuilding the retaining wall. Water levels, such as at time of high tide, often prevent a visual observation of the bases of the walls, and there may be adverse conditions present which are not discernible. Exterior Wood Surfaces All surfaces of untreated wood need regular applications of oil based paint or special chemicals to resist rot. Porch or deck columns and fence posts which are buried in the ground and made of untreated wood will rot within a year or two and are susceptible to termite infestation. Wood siding and trim materials in contact with the ground are also susceptible to rot and termite damage. All wood siding and trim materials should be properly sealed and a 4"-6" space maintained between the wood and the ground. Decks should always be nailed with galvanized or aluminum nails. The use of stainless steel or galvanized screws is a better means of attachment, particularly at the floor boards. Pools/Spas/Equipment Visual inspections are made as to condition of pool equipment, condition of marcite, and all related items. Pressure testing or other specific testing procedures are not a part of our report, nor are motorized or suction type pool sweeps or cleaners. Gas fired pool or spa heaters which do not activate using NORMAL controls are considered inoperable, and should be checked by qualified contractors prior to activation or lighting the pilot light. Operation or evaluation of automated (remote) controls, are not a part of this inspection; operation of those systems should be verified with the seller of the property or with the manufacturer of the equipment. Operation of solar heating devices is also generally not a part of this inspection, but your analyst will advise you if any adverse conditions were observed or indicated. Underground Service This report does not address the condition or usability of any plumbing, gas, oil, electrical, telephone or cable service or piping which is underground and is not visually accessible. Automatic Garage Door Openers Automatic garage door openers are inspected for normal operation and to verify that the automatic stop/reverse cycle functions properly. Automatic openers can be dangerous if the stop/reverse mechanism does not function, and should be checked monthly to insure that proper operating conditions are present.
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