Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

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

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

Today, we're zeroing in on a topic of paramount importance for Florida homeowners: roofing underlayments. Here, in the Sunshine State, where the weather can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful, understanding and choosing the right roofing underlayment is not just advisable; it's essential. Why Roofing Underlayments Matter in Florida Roofing underlayments play a crucial role in safeguarding your home from the elements. Positioned between the roof deck and the outer roofing material, underlayments serve as a critical barrier against water intrusion, wind, and sometimes even solar heat. But why is this especially important in Florida? Let's take a look. Intense Weather Conditions : We are no stranger to harsh weather, from torrential rainstorms and hurricanes to blistering heat and high humidity. These conditions can test the limits of any roofing system. A high-quality underlayment can provide that much-needed extra layer of protection against leaks and water damage. Hurri

If you’re in the market for a new home, understanding the structure and style of the roof can be as important as any other aspect of your possible new home. Today, we’re going to look at how to tell which type of roof your home has and look at how to calculate the percentages of gable versus hip roof sections on your home. This can not only aid you in making informed buying decisions but also in understanding the implications for maintenance, insurance, and aesthetics. Types Of Roofs Gable Roofs - are easily identified by their triangular shape, which is formed by two roof sections sloping in opposite directions and meeting at a ridge. The end wall of the house forms a triangle, which is the gable. Hip Roofs - have slopes on all four sides that come together at the top to form a ridge. This design allows for more stability, especially in high-wind areas, and offers a different aesthetic appeal. Calculating Roof Percentages Understanding the percentage of each roof type on a potential