Choosing an Inspector
Interview your inspector. Never assume that the cheapest inspection quote is your best choice. Prices will vary based on years of experience, quality of training, education, and inspector certifications. In many instances, those inspectors that quote inspection fees considerably lower than the going market rate may warrant a closer look. Oftentimes, these inspectors may perform inspections on a part-time basis, are uninsured, or have no professional organization affiliation.
After you have chosen your inspector, communicate with him or her to make sure you get the best service for your hard-earned dollars. Most inspectors welcome your attendance during the inspection. This has always been SUPERIOR’s policy. However, keep in mind that the more you interrupt the inspector during the inspection process the more likely your inspector may omit a finding. Whenever possible, we suggest that you visit the home prior to the inspection to create a personal concern list and plan on discussing it with the inspector during the inspection review process. You may have to arrange a second showing with your realtor.
It is recommended that you pass your concern list on to the inspector prior to the inspection so that the inspector can verify that your concerns are addressed or included in his or her observations. Remember, we are driven to serve you the customer. Together we will make sure your decision to buy is the right one.
Termites
Subterranean termites are the most prevalent species of termites found here in North Texas. They live underground and travel in mud shelter tubes. They make up about 90% of the termite infestations in the United States. Subterranean termite species that are the most common are the Eastern Subterranean termite, Arid Land Subterranean termite, and the Western Subterranean termite. Formosan termites are also a species of subterranean termites that are common in areas of Louisiana, Texas, and Florida. If you live more than 500 miles from the gulf coast, it is likely that termites in your region are subterranean.
Ants or Termites?
Before you get alarmed about your home having termites, get to know the facts. It is possible that you are not dealing with termites at all. Swarming carpenter ants look very similar to swarming termites due to the fact that both reproductive stages have wings. If you see signs of wings insects, don't panic and assume that they are automatically termites. Carefully pick one up and look it under a magnifying glass if available. Look for the most common characteristics.
– Color: subterranean termite swarmers are solid black, drywood swarmers are solid red, while carpenter ants are usually red and black or dark brown.
Aluminum Wiring
Aluminum wiring is found in dwellings built between 1965 to 1973. In 1972, manufacturers modified both aluminum wire switches and outlets to improve the performance of aluminum wired connections. The switches and outlets are labeled “CO/ALR”. CO indicates that the device is acceptable for copper wire, and ALR means it is acceptable for aluminum wire.
Aluminum wire does not behave the same as copper wire because aluminum wire has
approximately a 30 percent higher expansion/contraction rate than copper. When aluminum is exposed to the atmosphere, a film of aluminum oxide forms on the metal surface. The oxide is an insulator, not a conductor of electricity. The oxide becomes a problem as it continues to build up on the wire, it builds up resistance. Heat comes with resistance, thereby reducing the voltage.
To prevent oxidation at the connections of aluminum wires to other wires or terminal screws, it is recommended that a good anti-oxidant compound such as Alnox or Penetrax is applied at the point of connection.