Month: November 2024

As longtime residents of Northeast Pennsylvania, we’re used to prepping our homes for frozen pipes in the winter and windy storms in the fall. 

However, as the climate changes and storm surges worsen, we have noticed an uptick in weather-related damage to homes in the area. 

Even seasonal dangers, such as a buildup of leaves in gutters or excessive humidity in the summer, can damage homes indirectly without our knowledge. 

While NEPA boasts a moderate, subtropical climate, homeowners need to be aware of plenty of things when buying or selling a home with weather-related damage. 

This guide will explore the most frequent examples of weather-related damage we’ve experienced on homes in NEPA and provide tips for inspecting and preventing such damage. 

1. Roof Damage from Snow, Ice, and Wind

Roof damage is one of the most common and expensive home problems that we often uncover during home inspections. 

Unfortunately, for homeowners, avoiding roof damage is very difficult as several weather-related factors can damage your roof, including:

• Snow Accumulation: Excessive snow on a roof adds weight, increasing the risk of structural strain and potential collapse.
• Ice Dams: When ice ridges form at the roof’s edge, they trap melting snow, which can lead to water seeping beneath shingles and causing leaks.
• Wind Damage: Strong winter and spring winds can dislodge or crack shingles, leaving the roof vulnerable to water damage.

In addition, damage from falling tree limbs and debris is widespread in the area, especially for homes in more rural areas, such as the Poconos, Bear Creek, or Tunkhannock. 

To prevent roof damage from worsening, we highly recommend scheduling a roof inspection every few years to get ahead of repairs. In addition, it’s essential to clear off any debris that may fall on the roof that could end up in downspouts or get lodged between shingles.

2. Basement Flooding from Heavy Rains and Snowmelt

On the opposite end of the house lies the basement, which is typically protected from the elements but can be vulnerable to flooding. 

Unfortunately, flooding doesn’t need to occur from a once-in-a-lifetime event like Hurricane Agnes in 1972. Still, it can be a frequent concern for residents in mountainous regions that live on hills. 

For example, residents in hilly neighborhoods, such as Pittston, Clarks Summit, and Mountain Top, frequently experience basement flooding caused by water that flows past their houses from higher elevations. 

Sealing basement cracks is only half the battle; many residents require sump pumps and, in extreme cases, new slope grading to divert water away from their homes and basements. 

3. Frozen Pipes in Winter

Every Northeastern resident is familiar with extreme cold alerts that require you to leave your cabinets open and the faucet dripping to avoid freezing pipes. Unfortunately, even with the right precautions, frozen pipes can be inevitable and wreak havoc on the interior of your home. 

Water damage caused by broken or damaged pipes can lead to a host of issues, including damage to floors, foundation damage, mold growth, and replacement of your pipes.

When inspecting homes, one of the most essential things we search for is water damage caused by flooding or humidity, as well as broken or leaky pipes. 

4. Siding and Exterior Wall Damage from High Winds and Hail

Extreme gusty winds are common in Northeast Pennsylvania and can cause many issues for your siding. In our experience, aluminum or vinyl siding is the most vulnerable to damage, such as puncturing or separation from the home.

While siding damage may appear only to be an aesthetic concern, it can also cause several issues that can harm your home. For example, holes in your siding can invite moisture, pests, and other debris that damage interior components. 

5. Foundation Cracks from Soil Shifting and Frost Heave

Foundation issues are prevalent in Northeast PA due to the rapid freezing and thawing cycle of the soil during the fall and spring. Unfortunately, these cycles allow the soil to expand and contract, causing voids to form and the soil to shift. 

Another cause of foundation damage is heavy rainfall, which saturates the surrounding soil and penetrates the foundation. Malfunctioning gutters also allow water to pool around foundations and form cracks. 

When hunting for a home, don’t discount an older home’s advantage when it comes to a settled foundation. Newer homes are often more vulnerable to foundation shifting and its ill effects as these homes will not have very established foundations.

6. Gutter and Downspout Damage from Ice and Debris Buildup

Speaking of gutters, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of proper gutter maintenance during the fall and winter. Gutters are essential for diverting water away from your home’s foundation during rain and snow. 

A clogged, separated, or damaged gutter downspout will immediately be a red flag that we log on our inspection report and urge home sellers to fix. 

Some of the most common issues we find with gutters in Northeast PA include:

• Clogs: Leaves, ice, and debris can block gutters, leading to water overflow.
• Ice Dams: Water trapped by ice can lead to ice dams, causing roof and foundation damage.

Seasonal cleaning, winterizing gutters, and installing leaf guards can be great proactive tips for keeping gutters in working condition. 

7. Mold Growth in Humid Summer Conditions

Finally, we focus so much on weather-related events during the fall and winter, but the spring and summer can bring their issues. For example, mold buildup is one of the most common problems we discover on home inspection reports. 

However, mold is not always the result of leaky pipes or flooded basements. In many cases, older homes with poor ventilation in bathrooms, attics, and basements can cause mold to build up during hot and humid conditions.

For this reason, we always urge home buyers to conduct a mold inspection when searching for a home, as mold buildup can cause several health-related issues. 

The Importance of Regular Home Inspections

Being subject to a constant barrage of changing temperatures and extreme storms, houses in Northeast Pennsylvania can take a beating. We urge homeowners, buyers, and sellers to conduct regular home inspections to get ahead of repairs and costly damage. 

For a reliable home inspection in Northeast PA with the most accurate assessments of the quality and condition of your home, turn to the experts at Mountain to Valley Home Inspections. We are long-time local residents of NEPA with a keen understanding of weather-related issues that can damage your home and impact its value. 

FAQs

How often should I inspect my roof in Northeast PA?
It’s recommended to inspect your roof every five years or after severe weather events. Spotting minor issues early can prevent major damage.

How can I prevent my basement from flooding?

Installing a sump pump, maintaining proper grading around your home, and sealing foundation cracks are effective ways to prevent basement flooding.

What can I do to prevent ice dams on my roof?

Keep your gutters clear, add insulation to your attic, and consider installing roof heating cables to prevent ice dams from forming.

What are the signs of foundation issues caused by frost heave?

Look for cracks in walls and floors, doors and windows that stick, and uneven floors, as these could indicate foundation movement from frost heave.

According to data from Ruby Homes, over 5 million roofs are installed each year, and an estimated 25% of homeowners expect to repair their roofs in the near future. 

Between falling trees, changing seasons, and an abundance of wildlife that makes its way onto roofs, roof repair is one of the most common repairs Northeast PA homeowners will make over their lives. It’s also one of the most expensive. 

For this reason, roof inspections are an essential aspect of the home inspection when purchasing or selling a home.

This guide will discuss what to expect in a roof inspection during a home inspection and what tools and methods companies like Mountain to Valley Home Inspections make during the inspection process. 

Why Roof Inspections Are Essential During Home Inspections

Opposite the foundation, the roof is an essential structural component of the home, protecting its interior components from damage and the people inside from injury. According to the IBHS, roof damage is responsible for an estimated 70%-90% of total insured residential catastrophic losses.

Roofs in Pennsylvania are especially susceptible to damage from storms and falling debris that can occur from overgrown trees. 

We recommend regular roof inspections every five years at least to detect potential repairs and damage that could impact other components of your home. However, a roof inspection is essential when buying as it can help you:

• Avoid costly repairs.
• Protect the safety of those inhabiting the home.
• Help budget for future repairs or provide an accurate estimate of the longevity of your roof.

On the seller’s side, a roof inspection can help you make repairs before putting the home on the market or allow you to increase the value by marketing the roof’s condition in your listing.

What to Expect During a Roof Inspection

Understanding how our team of home inspectors analyzes your roof can help you feel more confident in your roof inspection. 

All roof inspections start with an exterior inspection that searches for signs of damage, such as missing shingles, cracked tiles, or debris buildup. Our inspections also inspect nearby structures, such as gutters and flashing, that are essential for preventing moisture, pests, and debris from entering your home or damaging your foundation.

If accessible, we will also analyze your attic or ceiling for an interior inspection to look for any signs of past water damage or leaks. 

All information will be provided to buyers and sellers, along with suggestions to help each party decide the best course of action to repair or replace their roof. 

Roof Inspection Methods and Tools

Roof inspectors employ various tools and techniques to assess the home’s roof accurately and thoroughly. Some of these include: 

• Visual Inspections: Using training and research from leading home inspection agencies, our technicians will look for signs of damage and potential repairs. 

• Drone Inspection with Thermal Imaging: Our team employs an advanced drone that gives us a crystal clear image of the roof in areas that may be hard to reach. Our drones are also equipped with thermal imaging, allowing us to analyze the heat profile to see if any areas of heat loss could be driving up your utility bills or causing leaks. 

• Core Sampling: In some cases where flat roofs or commercial properties are involved, some core sampling may be done to examine the layers underneath the roof to examine moisture levels and material integrity. 

Core sampling is a more invasive inspection method in which a small section of the roof is removed to examine the layers beneath. This technique is primarily used for flat roofs and commercial properties. Core sampling provides detailed insights into:

What Factors Influence Roof Inspection Costs

Roof inspections are a huge driver of your overall home inspection costs. However, the cost of a specific roof inspection or a general home inspection will be influenced by the same factors:

• Type of Inspection: Different methods, like visual, thermal imaging, or drone inspections, have varying costs based on the equipment and expertise required.
• Roof Size and Complexity: Larger or more complex roofs, such as those with multiple angles or layers, require more time and effort, increasing the inspection cost.
• Roof Material: Some materials, like slate or tile, may require specialized handling, adding to the overall cost.

When to Schedule a Roof Inspection

Knowing when to schedule a roof inspection can make a difference in preventing major issues. We recommend inspecting a roof at least every few years and before transacting a home or property. However, it may be ideal to inspect the roof and home in the following instances: 

• After Severe Weather: Heavy storms, hail, and high winds can all cause significant damage to your roof. An inspection can alert you to potential issues that require immediate repairs. 
• Presence of Leaks or Damage: If you are spotting water leaking into your home or any signs of water damage, it is ideal to get your roof inspected and repaired immediately. 
• After Roof Repairs or Renovations: If you’ve recently had your roof repaired or renovated, an inspection can ensure the work was done correctly and no new issues were introduced.

A roof inspection is an essential part of the home inspection process in Northeast PA. For a trusted and thorough roof assessment and home inspection, contact the seasoned experts at Mountain to Valley Home Inspections for a free quote!

FAQs

What should I do if my inspection reveals significant damage?

If the inspection uncovers major issues, consider scheduling repairs as soon as possible. Some contractors offer temporary fixes if immediate repairs are not possible, especially in adverse weather.

How long does a roof inspection take?

A typical roof inspection takes between 1-2 hours, depending on the roof’s size, the inspection method, and the complexity of the issues being examined.