Remodeling your home is a great way to improve its value or convert it into your dream home. Whether you just bought an older home and are looking to make sure it’s move-in ready, or are looking to flip your house and sell it for a profit, it’s vital to get help from an engineer to inspect your home. Engineering inspections can ensure your home is structurally sound and safe before housing your family or other buyers. While it might seem like an unnecessary expense, many states require engineering inspections by law. Here are 4 important things engineers will look for during a home remodel inspection.
1. Foundation and Walls
Your home’s walls might seem unassuming. How important of a role can they really play? Believe it or not, your walls actually play a critical role in determining whether or not your home is structurally sound. Engineers know what to look for to determine if your home remodel is adequate, or if it poses a safety hazard.
For instance, bowing walls are often a sign of severe foundation issues caused by hydrostatic pressure and expansive soils. Cracks in the wall can indicate too heavy of a load bearing. This is especially true if your home remodeling plan removes a load-bearing wall. From cracks to bowing, engineers will look closely at your wall during a home remodel.
2. Roof and Attics
The roof of your home is crucial to prevent storm damage, protect your family, and also plays a big role in your home’s structure. Many home remodeling projects that involve roofing, such as solar panel installations, should have the approval of an engineer before taking place. In addition, an engineer can also examine your roof for signs of structural damage. Sagging roofs, for instance, can indicate issues with the structure of your home. The attic might also be impacting your roof, especially if it’s fallen victim to wood rot.
3. Water Damage
While you might be excited to start your home remodeling project, you need to first assess your home for potential water damage. Water damage can lead to severe wood rot and negatively impact the beams and framing of your home. Unfortunately, not all water damage is readily visible, meaning you’ll need to get help from an engineer to inspect your home thoroughly.
Water can also impact other areas of the home, such as masonry tiles, walls, and your home’s foundation. If you know your home has previously been in a flood, it’s best to get help from an engineer before you further your home remodeling plans.
4. Windows and Doors
Engineers will also check windows and doors for signs of your house setting unevenly. If you notice your windows and doors don’t shut like they used to, have gaps, or have cracks, these could all indicate signs of structural issues. Engineers know what to look for to determine what the underlying cause of these issues is.
For instance, large cracks near your window that are jagged and diagonal could indicate severe foundation issues. Cracks that coincide with yellowish marks and damp areas could point to water damage around your windows. An engineer will take a look at all of these areas to help prevent further damage.
