Add Weather Strip to Door

Here is a simple How-To video. Step by step on how to install weather stripping to your doors and windows Air intrusion is one of the most common items we find in an energy audit. This will not only reduce the amount of heat loss but also increase the comfort of your home. The payback for weather stripping is typically very short. Head down to the hardware store and purchase the necessary products to improve your home.



Now is the time to save...the longer you put it off, the more money you are literaly throwing out the window.


We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Home Maintenance Excel Schedule

Here is a link to a Home Maintenance Schedule that is Excel based. It gives you a basic checklist of items to be checked quarterly. Then a list of items to be checked for each season. This will give you a basic list to work from, you can also add additional items to the list that are specific to your home.

HOME MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE (Click Here)

Customize this to work for your home.

We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Is My Electrical Panel Safe...

One of the most common hazard/safety concerns in a home is the electrical system. Over the years we have really improved the safety of electrical systems. As I inspect homes, I see a lot of "handyman work" and this is very concerning. Always have a qualified and licensed electrical contractor perform any alterations or repairs to your home's electrical system, your family depends on it.

Here is a very informative website about Electrical Panels. If you have a Federal Pacific, Zinsco, or Spin-In Fuse panel, you will want to make sure and read this. Click on the link for this great electrical panel information site.

Is My Panel Safe (Click Here)




We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Solutions to Help Homeowners Outsmart Mother Nature

Protecting your home means you’re pitted in a constant struggle against the forces of nature. Products and improvements that help you beat the weather are a smart investment.

Look for “weather beater” products that are low maintenance or that provide solutions to harsh climates and moisture. Remember, weather damage can occur in any season, whether it’s from hot or freezing temperatures, driving rains or rising flood waters.

First line of defense

Water damage can happen to any home in an instant, ruining valuable electronics or priceless family heirlooms. Even if you’re not in a flood zone, it is wise to invest in a main sump and battery backup pump.

“When storms hit or snow melts off, the ground gets over saturated and the water can enter your home,” says Tony Ferrante, vice president sales and marketing, Wayne Water Systems. “Sump pump systems are easy to install and provide years of worry-free service.” And, he advises, if you’re in a water-prone area, the sump pump should have a reliable battery backup pump, since power tends to go out during storms. For removing standing water in an emergency, such as pipes bursting or a sink or washing machine overflowing, utility pumps also come in handy. Many are portable and submersible.

A complete basement protection system is a minor investment compared to the extensive damage water can do to property and sentimental items that can’t be replaced. It is your first line of defense to protect your biggest investment: your home. Visit www.waynepumps.com for more information or go to amazon.com and key in Wayne Pumps.

Decks that endure

Moisture can be your deck’s worst enemy if it’s made of wood or has wood content. Decking and porch materials are available that have the rich looks of wood, but are resistant to moisture, insects and freeze/thaw conditions. The home exterior experts at AZEK Building Products say the latest innovations are cellular PVC deck boards and porch planks that stand up to weather with a durable, natural looking surface.

“It resists any type of food stains you can dish out, including red wine and barbecue sauce,” says Brian Kincaid of AZEK Building Products. He cautions to always ask for a code report for any decking product, since many building permits require this.

An outdoor haven with classic looks

Rain or hot sun does not have to limit your outdoor enjoyment. Enhance your entryway or backyard with a beautifully crafted pergola featuring rain-resistant or waterproof canopies in a range of colors and designs to add comfort and protection from weather.

For example, Walpole Woodworkers features pergolas in natural wood or low-maintenance cellular PVC to withstand the elements. With the added option of a manual or motor-driven retractable canopy, homeowners can enjoy shelter from rain, UV-rays and even add privacy with retractable side panels. The company offers free pergola or canopy design consultations at (800) 343-6948 or www.walpolewoodworkers.com.

Caulk goes above and beyond

Water damage and energy leaks can threaten your home and drain your wallet. Caulk delivers more bang for the buck than expensive technologies like solar, according to a March 6, 2009 Wall Street Journal article. A third of the energy loss in homes could be stopped by simple caulking and insulating, the article says.

One way to head off moisture or beat extreme temperatures is to buy the best caulk you can find. One example is LIFETIME Caulk from Red Devil, recognized for its durable “lifetime” seal with a warranty against weather damage for the life of the home. “Caulk is easy to apply and can result in up to 20 percent savings on utility bills,” says Jason Ringling of Red Devil.

Homeowners who want to protect their homes, increase resale value or enjoy low-maintenance exteriors can make sound product choices now, rather than pay big bucks to repair problems later. It is possible to stay one step ahead of Mother Nature.

We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Recepticals and Switches

Older two prong receptacles normally are not grounded; this makes the newer three prong receptacles much preferable. In most cases it is possible to make the conversion from two to three. This should be done by a trained electrician.
Older houses have fewer outlets and as such the excessive use of extension cords is found to be a norm. This can cause many problems. If the house doesn't have enough outlets it is preferable that you have extra outlets installed instead of using extension cables.

Be safe, if you do not have the skills to work on the electrical system, you should this work completed by a licensed electrical contractor. Don't take any chances, you don't want any "SHOCKING" results.



We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters or GFCIs are inexpensive electrical safety devices that are designed to reduce the risk of serious electrical shock and/or injury. They are typically installed in outlets on exterior walls and in damp environments. The GFCI will shut off power to the outlet if the electrical flow to the circuit changes slightly. The shut off is instantaneous, thus preventing long powerful shocks of electricty to an operator.

You should consider GFCIs for the following locations:

- Any outdoor/exterior outlets
- Kitchen
- Bathrooms
- Garage
- Basement and Crawlspaces


We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Crawlspaces Inspection

If you have a crawlspace, you should inspect it at least twice a year. This is to check for the accumulation of moisture on the floor or condensation on the structural material.

Ventilation in these places is very important, as such you should have through-the-wall ventilators. You should check the crawlspace on very hot or cold days. If there is water accumulation, this is a sign that the ventilation is not sufficient.
Asbestos insulation is frequently detected around boiler lines. If it is in good condition, it can be covered with tightly sealed plastic to keep the fibers from becoming airborne. If it is not in good condition, it will need to be removed, however the homeowner should never attempt this removal. Instead they should call a specialist.

We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Furnace Maintenance

Furnaces can be fueled by many different things. Electric Furnaces are the cleanest but can be the most expensive to operate in some areas. These furnaces require very little maintenance other than changing the filter and occasionally replacing a burnt out heating element.

Forced air gas furnaces are quite efficient and are much more common than the oil furnace. The heat exchanger in these is quite difficult to inspect because it is encased inside the cabinet. If a hole develops in the heat exchanger, the entire unit should be replaced.
If there is an accumulation of rust flakes in the bottom of the unit you should have it checked out.

Maintenance of a Forced Gas Furnace is fairly easy, consisting of cleaning the combustion compartment and flue annually. Gas furnaces should be serviced by a qualified technician every two or three years. While oil burning ones should be serviced every year.


We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Humidifiers

Forced hot air may become very dry and you may wish to add some moisture to it. This is normally done with a humidifier. When placing this humidifier you should not place it directly over the furnace heat exchange.

If the humidifier is not kept clean, or if water leaks it can flow into the furnace causing a hole and the furnace will need to be replaced.
It is preferred to put the humidifier on duct work away from the furnace. it is also preferred that you use the evaporation type of humidifier as opposed to the spray type, because the evaporator type is more easily maintained.

Remember, that all humidifiers need routine maintenance and checking, and that these are some of the most neglected appliances in your house.


We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Retaining Walls

Retaining walls have a high chance of settling, bowing, leaning or cracking; especially if the weep holes are too shallow. Weep holes allow the moisture that builds up between the wall and the dirt to escape.

Wood retaining walls can require replacing the broken or rotted boards, while masonry retaining walls can be much more expensive to repair; while you certainly can have them repaired you can also replace the broken pieces with Pressure Treated Lumber, simply because it is less expensive and more easily drained. Remember, proper grading behind retaining walls is essential.




We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Roof Maintenance

Most all roofs can, and will develop leaks in them; and a simple home inspection won't guarantee to find them all.

Leaks normally start as very small crevices or cracks, without the homeowners knowledge. In the early stages of a leak only small amounts seep through the crack, this is not a sufficient amount to alert the homeowner as it doesn't travel through all the layers of the ceiling.

It is recommended that you have your attic, and roof thoroughly checked twice a year for such leaks.

The most common source of leaks is flashing as they are often overlooked when repairing/replacing the roof, so be sure to inspect your flashing from time to time.


We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Smoke Detectors...Check Them Out!!

Well, we just sprung forward because of Daylight Savings. One thing you should always do is check all your smoke alarms and change their batteries. Listen to us on blogtalkradio.com and find out more about the smoke alarms in your home. Is it time to purchase new smoke detectors? Are your current detectors over 10 years old?



Here area a useful link from the State of Oregon when Selling Your Home:

What You Need to Know About Smoke Alarms Before You Sell Your Home

Check out our online radio show on BlogTalkRadio--Smoke Detector Safety

If you have older neighbors or family members, help them be more safe by checking their smoke alarms also.

Be Safe!!

The "House Detective"



We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Water Heaters...

Water Heaters have a life expectancy of 8-12 Years. The two key factors to a water heater are size and recoverability. While gas and oil water heaters are more effective because they have a faster recovery rate, They have to be serviced more often.

Servicing: An oil water heater has to be serviced annually, while a gas water heater has to be serviced every four years, and electric water heaters have elements that occasionally burn out and have to be replaced.


We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC Hood River Home Inspection The Dalles Home Inspection

Don't do what I done.....Purchasing a Thermostat

One thing I forgot to mention about purchasing a new thermostat. You really have to be careful that you purchase the correct one. Here's what I mean, there are multiple different heating systems configurations. We have a lot of heat pumps with gas or electric "emergency" heat. On the back of the package it will list out the systems it's compatible with. (I had to take back the first one we purchased because it would run either the heat pump or the emergency heat, I couldn't change it back and forth using the control.)

Look for the Energy Star rating, these thermostats are typically preprogrammed with ideal temperature setbacks for efficient operation. Remember in order to save energy you have to start reducing the amount of energy you are using.


We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC

The Control....of Heating and Cooling

Thermostats are installed in nearly ever single home. They control the heating and the air conditioning along with the airflow throughout the house. There are many different kinds of thermostats, these range widely in not only shape but ability as well. It is a good idea to become familiar with your thermostat, by reading the owners manual.


While thermostats ideally keep your house at the desired temperature it is nearly impossible to keep the whole house at one temperature. A 5-10 degree difference in temperature through the house is to be expected.


We are the Columbia River Gorge's Premier Inspection Company. If there is anything we can ever do to help you when buying or selling a home then check us out on the web @ www.thepremierinspector.com or give us a call Hood River, OR (541) 386-3968 or in The Dalles (541) 296-0102. We also perform Infrared Thermal Imaging and Home Energy Audits. Save Money, be Green, increase your home's value, and be more comfortable. Premier Inspection Services LLC

Garage Door Adjustment

Remote control garage door opener's can make life easier, however when they don't work they make it harder, so how can you insure continued performance for your garage door?

This is simple, adjusting your garage door periodically will help insure performance, normally it is a simple procedure in the owners manual.

Often the Attic access is in your garage, this means that when you go away on trips you will often want to lock the garage manually instead of leaving it on remote.

Hood River Home Inspection, The Premier Inspector in the Gorge!! (541) 386-3968 or Call us our Home Inspection The Dalles Office(541) 296-0102

We will post some specific adjustments for your garage door in the near future.

Where do the Smoke Alarms go in my home...

Where must alarms be installed in a single family home?

The minimum requirements are:

• Smoke alarms must be installed outside the sleeping area.
• If the home has more than one level a smoke alarm must be installed on each level.
• Install smoke alarms on the ceiling at least four inches from the nearest wall or high on a wall, four to 12 inches from the ceiling.
• The Office of State Fire Marshal recommends adding smoke alarms to each bedroom for additional protection.
• Single family dwellings are required to meet the applicable requirements of the State Building Code at the time of construction.

Also be sure to change the batteries in these devices and test every 30 days. You never know when your life may depend on it.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

An average of a quarter-million families have their homes ruined and their lives disrupted each winter, all because of water pipes that freeze and burst.

And recovering from frozen pipes is not as simple as calling a plumber. An eighth-inch (three millimeter) crack in a pipe can spew up to 250 gallons (946 liters) of water a day. Both plastic (PVC) and copper pipes can burst.

By taking a few simple precautions, you can save yourself the mess, money and aggravation frozen pipes cause.

• Before the cold hits Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic. These exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember - the more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.


• Heat tape or thermostatically-controlled heat cables can be used to wrap pipes. Be sure to use products approved by an independent testing organization, such as Underwriters Laboratories Inc., and only for the use intended (exterior or interior). Closely follow all manufacturers' installation and operation instructions.


• Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes. Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out and the heat in. With severe cold, even a tiny opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze.


• Disconnect garden hoses and, if practical, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance of freezing in the short span of pipe just inside the house.


• When the mercury drops a trickle of hot and cold water might be all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing. Let warm water drip overnight, preferably from a faucet on an outside wall.
  Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.


• Before you go away, set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55°F (12°C). Ask a friend or neighbor to check your house daily to make sure it's warm enough to prevent freezing or
  Shut off and drain the water system. Be aware that if you have a fire protection sprinkler system in your house, it will be deactivated when you shut off the water.

If your pipes freeze don't take chances. If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, leave the faucets turned on and call a plumber. If you detect that your water pipes have frozen and burst, turn off the water at the main shut-off valve in the house; leave the water faucets turned on. (Make sure everyone in your family knows where the water shut-off valve is and how to open and close it.)

Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. Water damage is preferable to burning down your house. You may be able to thaw a frozen pipe with the warm air from a hair dryer. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, working toward the coldest section of pipe. Do not use electrical appliances in areas of standing water because you could be electrocuted.

Electrical Panels

Two Important Electrical Panel Tips:

1) You should know where it is located in case you need to shut off all electricity in an emergency, or if a breaker trips and you need to reset it.

2) Do not obstruct access to your main electrical panel by building shelves or storing items in front of it.

Train Kids Fire Safety

If you have small children in your home, make sure one window in each child's bedroom is easily opened. Children have a tendency to try and open windows instead of breaking them to escape fire. Also plan your escape route and meeting area, then practice it.

Fireplace Tips

Before you light your fireplace, make sure the chimney is clean and in good working order. You should have a Licensed Chimeny Sweep clean and evaluate your system once per year.

Fireplaces can add cozy warmth to a home and can be safe if the proper precautions are taken. Before lighting your fireplace, always make sure the damper is open and there is no cover on top of your chimney. Covers are sometimes left by a previous owner. If you have a gas starter, use a low flame setting at the start, to help prevent damage to the firebox.