Checking your crawlspace and attic once per year can uncover issues and help prevent costly repairs. Photo by Barbara Jenkins.
Category: Smart Energy Tips

Yearly inspections can uncover, prevent costly problems

I had put it off as long as I could, despite a nagging feeling that I needed to do it months ago. That most terrible of tasks dreaded by every homeowner — a visit to the crawlspace.

Regular attic inspections allow homeowners to spot leaks, insulation issues, pests and other problems before they become major issues. Photo by Barbara Jenkins.

It’s a realm of spiders, odd odors and other unpleasantries galore. Just because you can’t see a problem doesn’t mean it’s not there. Catching problems early on is key to maintaining a healthy, comfortable, efficient home, as well as minimizing repair costs. That is why I had resolved as a homeowner to inspect my crawlspace and attic once a year. A home project required me to go spelunking under the home, and while there, I decided to grit my teeth and do my inspection.

I found a small pool of water and a wet joist that could have spelled disaster if left unchecked. Luckily, I caught it early, so there was minimal damage and it was a simple fix. My resolve renewed, I inspected my attic, where I discovered a minor roof leak over the porch. Another simple fix, thanks to catching it early on!

Check for these items when inspecting your home:

Crawlspace

  • Check and make sure that the vents are unobstructed, allowing airflow through the area to prevent mold and mildew. The exception to this rule is if your crawlspace is encapsulated and has a dehumidifier, but that is rare.
  • Check for signs of mold, mildew or excess moisture.
  • Check for droppings, food debris or other signs of rodents and other pests. If you notice signs of rodents in the crawlspace, look over any pipes or wiring with extra attention, as these critters love to gnaw on those, which could lead to catastrophe.
  • If your HVAC ductwork is in the crawlspace, check that as well. Leaky air ducts are one of the primary causes of high utility bills. Make sure your unit is on, and you should be able to see, hear or feel any major leaks as you inspect each section.
  • Check for any septic or sewer smells; they should never be present in a crawlspace.
  • Check for drooping or missing insulation on the underside of the floor. Not every home has insulation, but it is a good idea.
  • If you have other equipment in the crawlspace, inspect that as well.
Attic
  • Check that vents are unobstructed by insulation. A properly vented attic will help maintain a healthy, efficient home. Check that turbine vents or “whirly-bird vents” are unobstructed and able to spin freely.
  • Check your attic insulation. Typically, it is located on the attic floor. You want your attic insulation to be fairly even throughout the attic, and it should typically cover your ceiling joist or rafter beam.
  • Be sure to check any knee walls that are visible for insulation as well. A knee wall is a vertical wall visible from the attic that has conditioned space on the other side.
  • Check the roof decking, rafters and insulation for signs of water intrusion, such as stained boards.
  • If your HVAC is in the attic, check your ductwork with the unit running.
  • Check any vents to ensure they are properly vented to the exterior of the house.
  • Check for attic fans or attic accesses that are unsealed and uninsulated.
  • If you have HVAC equipment or water heaters in the attic, check those as well.
Bonus
Don’t forget to inspect your utility closet, HVAC equipment, water heaters and other major appliances as well. If you find any issues that you don’t feel comfortable tackling, please contact a professional to help you remedy them.
I hope this resolution will help you all as you strive to maintain a healthy, comfortable and efficient home.
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