Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

Over the years we have encountered our fair share of plumbing materials, but few have a story quite as tumultuous as that of polybutylene pipes. In this post, we’ll explore the rise and fall of this controversial material, shedding light on its history and the reasons behind its discontinuation. This information is vital for homeowners, homebuyers, and real estate professionals alike. The Rise of Polybutylene Pipes Polybutylene pipes made their debut in the plumbing scene in the late 1970s. Touted as the next “big thing” in home plumbing, these gray or blue plastic pipes were celebrated for their flexibility, ease of installation, and affordability. Polybutylene was seen as an innovative alternative to more traditional materials like copper, with its use spreading rapidly across the United States and Canada in the 1980s and early 1990s. Millions of homes and buildings were equipped with these pipes and many thought this material was the beginning of a new era in plumbing. The Fall: Why...

  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Take a detailed look or have a professional come in to take a detailed look at your air conditioning units and systems to get them ready for optimal functioning during hotter months Hurricane Preparedness: Inspect and reinforce your windows, doors, and garage doors. Check the condition of hurricane shutters or other protective measures. Roof Inspection: Inspect the roof for any damage, wear, or potential leaks, especially focusing on loose shingles or tiles. Landscaping and Lawn Care: Trim trees and shrubs, especially those close to the house, to prevent damage during storms. Exterior Inspections: Check the exterior paint and siding for damage, cracks, and wear. Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Your Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

As a home inspection company in the heart of Florida, we have encountered a variety of solar panel-related issues during routine home inspections. Solar energy is a fantastic resource for homeowners in the Sunshine State, offering both environmental and financial benefits. However, like any technology, it’s not without its potential pitfalls. We wanted to touch base with you in this blog on some common problems our inspectors have found with solar panels: Improper Installation One of the most frequent issues we encounter is improper installation. This can include panels that are not securely attached to the roof, incorrect wiring, panels installed in locations that don’t receive optimal sunlight, or storm damaged panels. Improper installation can lead to reduced efficiency, potential roof damage, and even safety hazards.  Roof Damage Solar panels must be installed with care to avoid damage to your roof. Unfortunately, we've seen cases where the installation process has led to crack...

We have seen the rise in many homeowners looking to possibly install solar panels on their home or purchase a home that already has solar panels. Florida’s abundant sunshine makes it an ideal location for solar energy, but as with any investment, there are both advantages and disadvantages. Advantages of Solar Energy in Florida Abundant Sunshine : Florida is famously known as the Sunshine State and offers an ideal climate for solar energy production. With an average of 237 sunny days per year, homeowners have a fantastic opportunity to generate substantial solar power. Energy Independence : Installing solar panels on your property can significantly reduce dependence on the grid, leading to increased energy independence. You can even store excess energy in batteries for use during outages or sell it back to the grid in some cases. Environmental Benefits: Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that reduces carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing solar, you’re con...

  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Insurance Policy Review: As hurricane season approaches, review home insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage. Interior Leak Inspections: Inspect under sinks, around tubs, and around appliances for any signs of leaks. Appliance Inspection: Verify all household appliances are functioning correctly, focusing on cooling appliances like refrigerators and freezers. Septic System Inspection: If applicable, inspect the septic system for signs of blockage or failure. Garage Inspection: Inspect the garage door, door opener, and other components for proper functioning and safety. Outdoor Lighting Inspection: Test outdoor lighting fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs with energy-efficient ones. Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Your Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

Welcome back to our blog, where we will share insights to help you navigate the complexities of home ownership in our beautiful state of Florida. Today, we are sharing a story from a recent inspection that underscores the importance of thorough inspections, particularly when it comes to tile roofs and their underlying waterproof membranes. Dream Home Turned Nightmare John, a recent Florida transplant, fell in love with a charming home with a tile roof that appeared to be meticulously maintained. The allure of this home, combined with the roof’s aesthetic appeal, made the decision to purchase easy. He thought that since he was paying cash, it would simplify the process, making the whole transaction easier on himself and he would shop insurance for the home after he moved in. His dream, however, quickly soured after he moved in and discovered that the waterproof membrane, beneath the tiles on the roof of his new home, was significantly damaged and that those loose and damaged tiles, he a...

We understand the challenges and beauty of living in our wonderful state. Among the important features of many Florida homes are the stunning tile roofs that not only enhance aesthetic appeal, but also offer durability against our often harsh weather conditions. However, there is a critical component beneath those tiles that plays an indispensable role in protecting your home: the waterproof membrane. This week we will go into why a tile roof without a waterproof barrier can be a deal-breaker for insurance companies and how you can ensure your home remains both insurable and protected. The Role of Water Membranes Underneath the beautiful array of tiles on your roof lies this crucial layer of defense against water intrusion. It is designed to: Prevent Water Damage: It acts as a secondary line of defense against rain, especially during our heavy summer downpours and hurricane season. Enhance Durability: By preventing water from reaching the roof structure, it helps avoid rot and struct...