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Foundation, Home Inspection

Foundation Horizontal Cracking: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

Building foundations are designed to provide stable and secure support for structures constructed above them. However, even the strongest and most well-built foundations are not immune to damage and deterioration over time. One common type of foundation damage is horizontal cracking, which is a concern for homeowners, builders, and contractors alike. In this essay, we will examine the causes, effects, and solutions for foundation horizontal cracking.

First, we will start with the causes of horizontal cracking. One of the main causes is soil expansion and contraction due to moisture changes, which can put pressure on the foundation walls and cause them to crack horizontally. Poor foundation drainage is another cause, as it can lead to an accumulation of water around the foundation and increase the pressure on the walls. Other common causes include poor quality materials, inadequate foundation footing, and weak soil composition.

The effects of horizontal cracking can be significant and widespread. The most obvious effect is the aesthetic appearance of the cracks, which can make the building look unsightly and can affect its resale value. Additionally, horizontal cracks can weaken the foundation and make it more susceptible to further damage from environmental factors like wind, rain, and earthquakes. If left untreated, horizontal cracks can have serious consequences, such as structural damage to the building, which can be costly and dangerous.

Fortunately, there are solutions available for horizontal cracking. The first step is to identify the cause of the problem and address it by repairing and reinforcing the foundation walls. This may involve waterproofing the foundation, installing drainage systems, or adding additional support like piers or underpinning. Once the foundation walls have been strengthened, the cracks can be filled with an appropriate material, such as epoxy, injected grout, or hydraulic cement. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the damaged portion of the foundation to ensure that the building remains structurally sound.

In summary, horizontal cracking in building foundations is a common issue that can have serious consequences if left unaddressed. Understanding the causes, effects, and solutions for this problem is essential for homeowners and building professionals alike. By taking steps to repair and reinforce foundation walls and filling cracks with appropriate materials, horizontal cracking can be effectively managed, ensuring that buildings remain structurally sound and visually appealing for years to come.

June 11, 2023/0 Comments/by tkoinspections
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Home Inspection, Roof

Roof Granule Loss

Roof granule loss is a common issue that homeowners face when their roofing system ages. Granules serve a crucial role in protecting the shingles from harmful weather conditions, such as UV radiation and rain. As the shingles age, the granules become worn and can detach from the shingle surface, leading to a reduction in the shingle’s protective capabilities.

There are several reasons for roof granule loss, including manufacturing defects, mechanical damage, and natural weathering. Poor maintenance practices, such as failing to clean gutters or trimming trees overhanging roofs, can also contribute to granule loss.

If left unattended, granule loss can lead to more severe roofing problems. Without granules, the shingles are more vulnerable to wind and rain damage, and UV radiation can deteriorate the shingle’s structure, causing leaks and other damage.

Homeowners should address roof granule loss promptly to prevent further damage. Regular inspections and maintenance can help to identify problems early and allow for quick repairs. Professional roofers can also provide solutions for granule loss, including roof coatings or replacements.

In conclusion, roof granule loss is a problem that should not be taken lightly. Proper maintenance and prompt repairs can help to prevent further damage, saving homeowners from costly repairs and replacements.

June 1, 2023/0 Comments/by tkoinspections
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Home Inspection

Things To Do To Get Ready For A Home Inspection

1. Clean and Declutter: Before the home inspection, clean your home thoroughly and declutter the rooms. This will make it easier for the inspector to access the various areas of your home and identify potential issues.

2. Check Safety Measures: Make sure that all the safety measures in your home, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are functioning properly.

3. Check for Water Damage: Check for water damage in the kitchen, bathroom, and any other areas where water is regularly used. This includes checking for leaks under sinks and around toilets.

4. Check Electrical System: Make sure all electrical outlets are working properly, and the wiring is in good condition.

5. Check HVAC System: Make sure that your heating and cooling system is in good condition and functioning correctly.

6. Check Structural Elements: Check for any cracks, gaps or other signs of damage on the foundation, walls, ceiling, and roof.

7. Provide Access: Make sure all areas of your home are accessible for the inspector, including attics, basements, and crawl spaces.

8. Gather Documentation: Assemble any permits, certificates, warranties, and manuals for appliances, systems, and renovations to hand over to the inspector.

9. Address Repairs: Fix any minor repairs beforehand to show that your home is well-maintained.

10. Remove Pets: If you have pets, it’s best to remove them from your home during the inspection.

May 29, 2023/0 Comments/by tkoinspections
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4.9 Stars - Based on 360 User Reviews
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Jacob Watson AvatarJacob Watson
Todd is very professional and thorough with his inspections. Excellent reporting system! - 5/24/2021 
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Stephen Hubbard AvatarStephen Hubbard
Todd was there promptly and ready to go. Not only did he know what he was doing, he knew how to explain it. We wrapped up our inspection around noon and will have it finalized this evening. Very confident in his findings and I can't wait to do business with him again. - 5/24/2021 
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Rick Smith AvatarRick Smith
Todd was extremely thorough and answered all of our questions to our satisfaction. Would definitely recommend him for your home inspection. - 7/13/2024 
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Cara Huff AvatarCara Huff
I would give way more than five stars if I could! We were on the fence about getting our new home inspected prior to closing because we knew we couldn’t ask the sellers to remedy any problems, but our realtor recommended TKO Home Inspections and after speaking with Todd on the phone, we decided to go for it and we are so glad we did. He was super thorough and even though he didn’t find any major issues, the peace of mind we now have is priceless. There WERE a few minor things that he found and we never would’ve noticed that we can fix when we move in before they become big issues. Todd is super friendly and professional and we both felt we were in great hands. He had our inspection report complete with tons of photos back to us within hours. We will recommend TKO to everyone from here on out! - 7/24/2021 
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Harriet Page AvatarHarriet Page
He’s amazing! Not only does he identify issues, he also has recommendations/referrals who can fix the problem! - 11/24/2021 
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Michelle Byle AvatarMichelle Byle
Todd Kirk at TKO Home Inspections is the best. He's honest, thorough, clearly highly experienced and was legitimately the backbone to our home purchasing decision. His shareable, detailed report came complete with not just one, but two, recommended professionals to help with any necessary repairs. This was very helpful to us as we were new to the area, and every one of the pros we contacted, from electricians to chimney repair crews, were fantastic. Can't recommend TKO enough. - 7/20/2024 
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Lisa Spykers AvatarLisa Spykers
My husband and I contracted Todd several times to inspect houses we were buying and while his work appeared to be satisfactory, he recommended a contractor to do work at our houses (a very good friend of his) who did shoddy work, some work not at all, scammed us, and stole all the keys to our properties. We are now out of pocket approximately $10,000. Todd is close friends with a contractor called Chris Skinner ('Chris Can Fix-It') who said he would put attic insulation 'to code' in my duplex yet blew little in with visible gaps and inadequate coverage. He also didn't paint parts of the house exterior as agreed, as well as a list of several other items, including unfinished work at my husband's property too. He refused to send receipts for materials or invoices for payment when asked. We trusted Todd and his recommendations until a house inspection (not done by Todd) revealed the truth. The friend he recommended, who claimed to be a 'man of God', is a master of deception who builds up friendships with his clients, pretending to do extra work for them without charge, and rides on the back of Todd's supposed good reputation in order to gain their trust. Chris shockingly kept the keys to our properties hostage, trying to extract more money for work never completed. We offered him money for their return and Todd offered to pick them up too, but he refused. While we appreciated Todd offering this action, he quickly added that he 'couldn't handle' being in the middle of the conflict and wanted out, despite the fact that he was the one who knowingly recommended his good friend to his clients. Try being lied to multiple times, conned and robbed, and wasting months of your life, Todd, and I'll tell you a story about not being able to handle something. Todd was offended when I brought up his poor recommendation as a perceived attack on his integrity. But given he is close friends with someone who lies and steals, and actually recommends that person to his clients, I can in no way recommend Todd as a trustworthy person. If he believes the quality (or lack thereof) of this person's work and his highly unethical actions are in any way acceptable to his clients, then his integrity is justifiably questionable. - 5/03/2024 
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Jim Jenkins AvatarJim Jenkins
Todd got our inspection in a timely and efficient manner. He's a good guy and I would recommend him as well. - 5/10/2025 
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Neil Lawrence AvatarNeil Lawrence
Todd is the ultimate professional. Patient, thorough and honest. It was a pleasure to have him conduct my inspection. - 12/13/2023 
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Chico Stick AvatarChico Stick
I’d like to thank Todd for being my inspector and opening my eyes to a lot of unseen issues with the house I had in contract. Truly saved me 1000s in home repairs. - 5/24/2020 
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Timothy LeMasters AvatarTimothy LeMasters
Todd did a very thorough job of inspecting the home I was buying and recommended contractors for every finding. - 6/06/2024 
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Kaitlin King AvatarKaitlin King
Todd was very timely, thorough and communicative. - 6/21/2024 
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Sally Thompson AvatarSally Thompson
Todd provided a thorough inspection of my prospective home. More important, he answered my many questions and provided me with advice for how to solve the few problems found in the home. I highly recommend him for your home inspection. - 7/24/2021 
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Mary Ann James AvatarMary Ann James
Todd Kirk conducted my Home Inspection with a white glove and fine toothed comb! I am appreciate his professionalism and attention to detail! His report was expeditious and he answered any questions I had regarding his report. Thank you again Todd! - 2/24/2022 
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Fields Fields AvatarFields Fields
Todd from TKO inspections was very prompt and very thorough.
I was able to ask him questions and he answered them all.

I would definitely recommend his services to anyone looking to get an Inspection. - 4/27/2022 
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Tara Trujillo Huffman AvatarTara Trujillo Huffman
Todd worked to get us scheduled at time that was convenient for us which happened to be on an early Sunday morning. He walked me through the house and various issues and then I received a report that was even more thorough and detailed with things that I didn’t even recognize as issues. He was prompt and quick to get us the full report back. He really did a great job. - 5/24/2020 
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Adonis Davis AvatarAdonis Davis
Great first time home inspection - 1/10/2024 
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Kelly Middaugh-Patiño AvatarKelly Middaugh-Patiño
Todd responded very quickly when I called about needing an inspection of a property within a few days. He was very thorough and took the time to explain some of the issues he was finding. - 6/15/2022 
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Matt Skuce AvatarMatt Skuce
Todd is everything you want in an inspector. When we hired him to inspect a home for us he was thorough, easy to communicate with, knowledgeable, got the reports to us promptly, and he saved us from buying a real money pit! The reports he sends are clear, accurate, personalized, and highly professional. We've had some experience with other inspectors and were disappointed, but not with Todd! I'd recommend him to any of my friends or family in a heartbeat. - 5/24/2020 
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Tamara Fisher AvatarTamara Fisher
I had the pleasure to do business with Todd twice. The value of his professionalism and knowledge definitely are worth every penny of the home inspections he provides. For my first home inspection, Todd’s expertise saved me from buying a home that was not structurally sound. My second home inspection on another property, his same expertise helped me make a sound decision that I was moving forward with a good purchase. Oh and let me say this…his inspection reports are hands down the most visually appealing, easy to follow and professional home inspection report I’ve ever seen! - 8/24/2021 
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