During the home inspection process, the home inspector will do an examination of the attic in the home. Here are five areas of the attic that will be inspected.
1. Access To Attic – The home inspector will document where the access to the attic is located. In addition, the home inspector will document the condition of the attic door or access panel. If an attic ladder is present, the home inspector will document if it rests squarely on the floor and is safe to climb on.
2. Insulation – When the home inspector enters the attic, he will identify the type of insulation as well as how deep it is. Commonly, the insulation will be rolled fiberglass or blown for newer homes. Older homes typically have an older style, like rock wool, or a combination of old and new. Floored areas will not be inspected and labeled as “not visible”.
Ventilation – Most attics will have a two ventilation points. The types of ventilation points are soffit, gable, ridge, and roof vents. Below is an explanation of the vent types.
The vent areas under the eaves are called soffit vents. The home inspector will be looking to see if daylight is visible from the soffit vents. It is recommended that baffles be installed to maintain the air space and keep the insulation from blocking the vent.
Gable vents are located in the top corners of gable roof ends. These vents should have screens that protect the attic from birds and other flying rodents like bats.
Ridge vents are a continuous vent varying in length and located at the top of the ridge. Ridge vents are common in hip roof configurations.
Roof vents and fans are through the roof vent systems where a hole is cut into the roof sheathing between the rafters. These vents are commonly found on the rear of the house for cosmetic purposes.
The two vent sources ought to be from two opposite origins. For instance, gable roofs have both gable and soffit vents. Where hip roofs will have ridge and soffit vents. Elaborate roof formations will possess multiple vent opening.
4. Structure – The roof should not have any loose, broken, or cut framing members. The home inspector will also comment on the condition of the roof sheathing.
5. Leaks – While inspecting the roof sheathing, the home inspector will be looking for signs of leaks around all chimneys, roof penetrations, and vents.
There are some limitations to the attic inspection. Any area that has head room of less than three feet does not have to be inspected. In addition, the home inspector is not required to inspect an area with hazardous materials.
Hubert Miles performs South Carolina Home Inspections and the owner of Patriot Home Inspections. If you are searching for a Myrtle Beach Home Inspector see what Patriot Home Inspections can offer you.