Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

The State of Florida has unique environments—with its sandy soils, high water table, and susceptibility to hurricanes—makes understanding home foundations particularly important. Whether you’re buying a new home or maintaining your current one, a strong and stable foundation is critical to the safety and longevity of your property. Here’s what every homeowner should know about foundation requirements, maintenance, common issues, and what to look for when purchasing a home in Florida. Types of Foundations in Florida Homes Florida homes typically feature one of the following foundation types: Slab-on-Grade: The most common type in Florida, especially in newer homes. A concrete slab is poured directly onto the ground and serves as both the foundation and flooring. Best suited for areas with minimal risk of frost and freezing, making it ideal for Florida’s climate. Pier and Beam: Found in older homes, this type uses elevated beams supported by piers to create a crawlspace beneath the home....

As a home inspection company serving Florida, we often stress the importance of a pre-drywall inspection. One of the most overlooked yet essential aspects of this phase of construction is ensuring proper installation of nailer plates, a small but critical feature that protects your home’s infrastructure. What Are Nailer Plates? Nailer plates, also known as safety plates or plumbing protection plates, are thin metal plates installed on framing members such as studs or joists. Their purpose is simple but vital: to protect plumbing, electrical wires, and other utility lines that run through or near wooden framing. When a nailer plate is installed, it acts as a shield, preventing errant screws, nails, or drill bits from puncturing these lines during drywall installation or future renovations. Why Are Nailer Plates Important? Without nailer plates, the utility lines in your walls are at risk. Here’s why they matter so much: Preventing Plumbing Leaks A punctured water pipe can lead to leaks,...

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...

In the intricate world of real estate, understanding the nuances that influence home insurance premiums is paramount. Today, we're zoning in on a specific factor that significantly impacts insurance costs: termite risk in different types of home construction. The spotlight is on comparing single-story block homes with two-story homes that feature block on the first story and a wood frame on the second. Single Story Block Homes: A Bastion Against Termites Single-story homes constructed entirely with block (concrete, cinder, or similar materials) are virtually impervious to termites. Termites primarily feed on cellulose material, which is found in abundance in wood but not in block construction. This innate resistance to termites makes single-story block homes less of a risk from an insurance perspective. Insurers often view these homes as lower-risk properties since the likelihood of termite-related damage, and thus termite-related claims, is significantly reduced. Consequently, the...