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| Structural Components |
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During
the course of a home inspection, the structural
components are visually inspected. Many
components of the structure are hidden from view
making the job of verifying structural integrity
difficult. A home inspector takes clues from
his surroundings to determine if there are any
structural defects that might require further
evaluation by a structural engineer.
Structural components that are visually inspected
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- Foundation - Without a solid
foundation a home doesn't stand a chance.
We inspect for visual structural defects of
the foundation.
- Floor Structure - Here in Arizona
the first story floor is usually integral to
the concrete slab and can give valuable clues
as to the foundation's condition. Second
story floors also can tell allot about the
condition of the framing.
- Wall Structure - Structural
problems often times manifest themselves in
the walls. Movement of the foundation
can translate through wall structure and into
other areas of the home.
- Columns - Inadequate, improperly
sized or poorly installed columns can cause
severe structural problems.
- Ceilings - As with walls, ceilings
are often times a great indicator of
structural problems.
- Roof & Attic Structure - Dips, sags
and sways in roofs are good indicators of
structural problems. Missing, damaged or
cut roof trusses often times go unnoticed and
can cause extensive damage.
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A home
inspector is not a structural engineer, if structural
defects are found during the home inspection your home
inspector will recommend further evaluation by a
structural engineer to determine the required remedy and
estimated cost. This is not a recommendation that we
make lightly, our primary goal is to protect your
investment by bringing to light major defects before you
make the commitment to buy the home. Any structural
defects found should be addressed prior to the close of
the real estate transaction.
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