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Maintenance (Fourth Week of February)

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Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Continue maintenance and preparation of air conditioning units for the approaching hotter months. Clean or replace filters and check for any needed repairs or tune-ups Inspect and prepare your irrigation systems. Start planning and preparing garden beds for spring planting Look at the exterior paint and siding. Check for damage and deterioration Make sure exterior drainage is directing water away from the home Clear any debris from gutters and downspouts Check the roof for any damaged or missing shingles and other issues Check the seals around windows and doors to make sure they are not letting in warm air or letting out cool air.  Check your screens for damage and repair or replace them as needed Generally Helpful Guidelines: We are including the information below to help as you work through maintenance and repairs on your home. Remember that the life expectancy of Natural Stone Count...

What Homebuyers Should Know About Exterior Issues in Florida Homes

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Buying a home in Florida comes with unique considerations, especially when it comes to the property’s exterior. The state’s hot, humid climate, frequent storms, and salty coastal air can cause a range of issues that buyers should be aware of before making a purchase. We often identify problems with a home’s exterior that could lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. Here’s some things you need to look for when evaluating the exterior of a home you may be thinking about buying in Florida. Roofing Issues Our intense sun and frequent storms take a toll on roofing materials. Many homes feature asphalt shingles, tile, or metal roofs, each with its own vulnerabilities: Shingle Roofs: Look for missing, curling, or cracked shingles, which can indicate weather damage or aging. Tile Roofs: Cracked or loose tiles can allow water intrusion, leading to leaks and mold. Metal Roofs: While durable, improper installation or rusting from salt air can be a concern. Hurricane Readiness: Florida bu...

Buying A Home In Florida: Some Trends Covering Common Issues, Building Codes, And Concerns That May Affect You

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Over the past year, home inspections in Florida have highlighted several notable trends, including common issues identified in homes, updates to building codes, and emerging concerns in home maintenance and safety. Common Issues Identified in Florida Homes Roofing Concerns   Inspectors frequently encounter problems related to roofing materials and installation. Changes in the Florida Building Code have updated underlayment requirements to enhance roof longevity and performance. Additionally, the 25% roof replacement rule has been modified; roofs installed after March 1, 2009, can now undergo repairs even if more than 25% is damaged, provided they comply with current code standards. Structural Integrity Following the tragic Surfside condominium collapse in 2021, there has been increased scrutiny on the structural integrity of older buildings. Legislation now mandates that buildings reaching 30 years of age must undergo a milestone inspection to assess structural soundness. This has ...

Maintenance (Third Week of February)

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  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Although we do not perform inspections on these, inspect your septic system and sewer lines for blockages or other issues, particularly if the home has experienced recent heavy rains. Check the irrigation systems to ensure they are functioning properly and ready for the spring growing season.  Review your insurance policies to ensure all aspects of the home are covered, including assessing needs for flood or hurricane insurance as the season approaches. Examine trees and landscaping for any signs of disease or damage, and prune back any branches that could pose a threat in a  storm. Generally Helpful Guidelines: We are including the information below to help as you work through maintenance and repairs on your home. Remember that the life expectancy of a deck can vary due to exposure to a wide variety of environmental conditions such as weather, wind and hail. This chart wil...