Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

As hurricane season reaches its peak, ensuring your home is prepared for potential storms is essential. For homeowners in hurricane-prone regions like Florida, taking proactive steps to safeguard your property can make a significant difference. One of the most crucial measures you can take is a thorough home inspection tailored to address the specific vulnerabilities hurricanes can exploit. Here’s what your pre-storm home inspection should cover and how it can help you prepare for potential hurricanes. 1. Roof Integrity The roof is your home's first line of defense against hurricanes, and any weakness can lead to devastating damage. High winds and heavy rain can quickly exploit roof vulnerabilities, leading to leaks, structural damage, and in extreme cases, complete roof failure. During your home inspection, the inspector should: Check for loose or missing shingles: These are weak points that can easily be torn away by hurricane-force winds. Assess flashing around chimneys and vent...

Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention:  Repair any cracks or damage in your driveway or walkway to prevent tripping hazards and further deterioration Check for proper drainage around your driveway, walkways, and home to prevent water pooling Check all outdoor lighting fixtures for proper operation and replace any burned-out bulbs Adjust timers for outdoor lights as daylight hours change Check the stability and condition of fences, decks, and other outdoor structures, repairing any damages found Tread wood structures with a sealant to protect against moisture and insects If you have a septic system, arrange for service if needed, inspect for signs of issues, and use water efficiently to avoid overloading the system Test generators and other emergency equipment to ensure proper operation Restock any used or expired emergency supplies such as batteries, water, and non-perishable foods Have a fantastic and safe rest of your wee...

While Florida is famous for its warm, sunny weather, there are those occasional cool evenings when nothing beats the comfort of a cozy fire. If your home has a fireplace, it’s important to have a company that specializes in chimney inspections, come in to ensure that it’s safe and ready to use before the cooler months roll in. Why Fireplace and Chimney Inspections Matter in Florida Even though we doesn’t experience the harsh winters of northern states, homes with fireplaces still require annual inspections and maintenance. Coastal winds, humid air, and the occasional tropical storm can take a toll on your chimney, potentially causing damage that may not be visible to the naked eye. Fireplaces can become dangerous if not properly maintained. Issues such as creosote buildup, structural damage, and blockages can pose serious fire hazards. That’s why it’s important to get your fireplace and chimney inspected before lighting your first fire of the season. Here’s what an inspection from a co...

As we approach the fall season, homeowners in Florida face a unique set of challenges due to the state’s subtropical climate. While fall in Florida doesn’t bring the dramatic changes in temperature seen in other parts of the country, it’s still an important time for home maintenance. We understand the importance of preparing your home for the months ahead. Here’s why a September home inspection is essential and what you should focus on during the transition to fall. Why September Home Inspections Matter in Florida Florida's weather can be unpredictable, with hurricane season peaking from August to October. The intense summer heat and humidity can take a toll on your home. By conducting a home inspection in September, you can address issues caused by summer conditions and prepare for the cooler (though still mild) months ahead. Our comprehensive fall inspection focuses on areas particularly affected by Florida’s climate, helping you maintain the safety, efficiency, and longevity of ...

  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention:  Inspect for signs of mold and mildew, particularly in areas with high humidity like bathrooms and kitchens, and address any issues immediately Use dehumidifiers and maintain adequate ventilation in high-humidity areas Check the operation of garage doors and their safety features Secure tools and equipment to prevent damage or injury during a storm Inspect the water heater for signs of corrosion, leaks, and ensure it is operating efficiently Drain sediment from the water heater tank if needed Review home insurance policies to ensure coverage is adequate for potential storm and flood damage Update the home inventory list and store it, along with insurance documents, in a secure, accessible location Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Your Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

Florida's unique climate—characterized by frequent rain, high humidity, intense sun, and hurricane-force winds—can put a strain on any gutter system. After installing aluminum or galvanized steel gutters, homeowners may encounter various issues that arise due to the local environmental conditions. Understanding these common problems can help homeowners prepare for maintenance and repairs, ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of their gutter systems. Common Issues After Installing Aluminum Gutters 1. Corrosion of Fasteners While aluminum gutters themselves are corrosion-resistant, the fasteners or screws used in the installation may not be. Over time, these fasteners can rust or weaken due to our high humidity and exposure to salty air in coastal areas. This can cause the gutters to pull away from the house, leading to water leakage or sagging gutters. 2. Expansion and Contraction Aluminum gutters tend to expand and contract with temperature changes, which is especially prevalen...