What to Look for When Inspecting Your Attic

WHAT IS CONSIDERED AN ATTIC INSPECTION IN TORONTO?

Attic inspection in Toronto involves assessing the condition of all components under the roof, such as insulation elements, ventilation systems, and roof structure. The examination aims to identify potential problems and counter them before they manifest and cause extensive issues. Homeowners also get critical information from the inspection that helps them mitigate high energy consumption and bills, poor indoor air quality, and other moisture-related problems like mould growth.

The assessment also highlights key features that point to the background of the property. For instance, it could reveal soot on the wood to indicate a previous fire breakout in the house. You could also uncover wood shavings that point to possible insect infestation.

You can hire a professional inspector for such tasks. A certified home inspector can help you determine the condition of the roof and the entire house; whether the ventilation, heating, and cooling systems are functioning efficiently. Remember, issues in the attic can multiply and affect the whole property if they go unnoticed for a prolonged period.

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WHEN IS IT ADVISABLE TO CALL AN ATTIC INSPECTION PROFESSIONAL?

Attic inspection does not always have to involve a professional home inspector. Sporadic individual probing can help you save money by preventing expensive repairs and keeping you from paying someone else. That means you must be familiar with that part of the roof to be able to spot potential problems. Bi-annual inspections are important, but you can also opt for seasonal assessments. Common signs of issues to look out for include stains and black mold that indicate excess moisture, mice droppings that show rodent infestations, or loose bathroom fans.

It is advisable to call a professional for an attic inspection in Toronto if you suspect there could be underlying problems. If you spot something unusual and are unsure about what it means, an expert can assess it further and give a more conclusive answer. It is also better to hire a professional if you want to buy or sell the property or are physically incapable of doing the inspection. If possible, accompany the inspector and ask as many questions as possible during the process.

A detailed inspection is about checking and ascertaining that the ventilation is working correctly, observing the airflow, and measuring insulation. When done comprehensively, the entire process can last approximately one hour, regardless of whether you hire a professional or not. Ensure you address decays, molds, stains, pest invasion, draftiness, and incomplete insulation. Vent stacks and exhaust ducts should be continuous.

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ATTIC INSPECTION CHECKLIST – AREAS TO CONSIDER DURING THE INSPECTION

Attic Ventilation

It’s important for the attic to have enough vents so that air can flow easily. The space should be inspected to ensure that there’s nothing blocking the roof vents. Attic vents need to be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure there’s proper airflow.

Ensure there are no signs of poor ventilation, such as condensation on sheathing, fungi growth, and rusted nails. Condensation is more noticeable in winter, but you should also confirm that the temperature in the attic remains lower than 110 degrees Fahrenheit in summer.

Ventilation enhances airflow in the attic, and the most efficient way to maximize airflow is by improving ridge and soffit vents. The vents suck air from the soffit, the lowest section in the attic, and remove it through the ridge – the highest point.

Structural Issues

A poorly insulated attic can cause moisture problems that compromise the structural integrity of your home. It’s important to assess the attic for structural issues like water leakages that result in mold formation.

Signs of Pest Infestation

Rodents and raccoons can quickly invade your attic, and feed on electrical components, ductwork and insulation. If you notice any signs of pests in your attic, call an expert to have them exterminated. Common signs of the presence of birds and rodents include nests, acorns, leaves, and droppings. Make sure you find out how the pests invaded the attic and work on ways to keep them out. Many tend to access the attic through openings on the soffit.

Familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding pests’ removal if you choose to handle the task as a DIY. Many regions prohibit the use of poison or pest eradication during specific times of the year. You can also consider trapping them or installing exclusion doors that allow bats to leave and not return. Remember to seal off their entryways afterward.

Exhaust Ducts and Vent Stacks

Ducts and vent stacks should run seamlessly through the roof to the exterior. However, that cannot happen if bathroom vent fans extend into the attic. Some installers make that mistake, and it can be costly. The vent fans should continue to the outside instead of the attic space. Placing them in a way that leads them to the upper section of the house means letting moisture into that space, leading to condensation on the roof structures. The result is a constant fungal growth that could spread to the rest of the house and cause health issues.

The solution is to ensure the bathroom fans and other vents reach outside. An alternative fix would be to install vent hoods in the attic to keep it moisture-free.

A proper attic inspection in Toronto should include checking for damages like cracks or loosening, even if the vents reach outside. Avoid placing objects on the pipes – nothing should lean against them.

Signs of Water Leakage

There are certain areas on the attic that are more prone to water damage. The roof vents and chimneys need to be checked for moisture, rot and mold. Look out for damaged wood, framing or leak sources. Having these areas inspected regularly can save you costly repairs and prevent high energy bills.

You can handle the inspections and simple repairs on your own if the property is a single-story or the roof is low-slope. However, a professional should help you solve complex problems. It is also safer and better to hire experts to access the attic for thorough evaluations and repairs, especially for steeper roofs or multiple-story buildings.

What Products Are Best?

There are different types of materials that your contractor may recommend when it comes to attic insulation. One common option is fibreglass insulation which is designed to hold heat and prevent moisture buildup. There’s also the option of using cellulose insulation which soaks moisture and releases it slowly to minimize the risk of damage. Your contractor should recommend the most reliable insulation material for your attic by assessing the condition.

Choosing a Reliable Contractor

As soon as the attic inspection in Toronto is done and there is a need for repairs, the next important step would be to choose the right contractor. Find contractors with experience in attic insulation. The contractor should only prepare a quote after a visit to the site. The best contractors understand the repairs needed to be done to ensure the building is up to code and that you enjoy a healthy and mould-free environment.