Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems that homeowners face. Left unaddressed, moisture issues like leaks, flooding, and excess humidity can lead to mold growth, rotting, structural damage, and numerous other problems. That's why a professional home moisture inspection is so important for identifying and resolving moisture issues before they cause major damage.
In this blog post, we'll explore why moisture inspection is critical for homeowners, what's involved in the inspection process, how to interpret the findings, and steps you can take to protect your home from costly water damage. Whether you're buying a new house, renovating an older home, or simply maintaining your current residence, this guide will provide useful insights into the value of thorough moisture inspection.
Why Moisture Inspection Matters
Moisture problems tend to develop slowly over time, often going unnoticed until serious issues arise. Small leaks from pipes, overflowing gutters, groundwater seepage, condensation, and other humidity sources allow moisture to penetrate building materials. As materials like wood, drywall, and insulation absorb moisture, it provides the perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, and rot.
In addition to health hazards from mold exposure, excess moisture causes costly structural damage. Wet framing wood loses integrity and rots. Drywall soaks up water and disintegrates. Insulation loses R-value. Continual dampness flakes paint, warps siding and floors, corrodes fasteners, and ruins countless other building components.
Catching and correcting moisture issues through inspection and maintenance helps avoid deterioration and keep your home structurally sound. Routine home moisture inspections by trained professionals provide an objective assessment of moisture conditions throughout the home. Inspectors identify hidden signs of water intrusion, document areas of concern, and recommend solutions.
What to Expect During Inspection
A typical whole-home moisture inspection examines both interior and exterior areas likely to experience dampness issues. The inspection process generally includes:
Visual Assessment
The inspector will thoroughly walk through the interior and exterior, visually assessing all accessible areas of the home. They'll look for visible signs of moisture damage, mold growth, leaks, deterioration, and condensation. The inspector will document affected locations and the extent of visible damage.
Moisture Meter Scans
Inspectors use moisture meters to detect dampness in materials that may not show visual signs. A moisture meter can detect moisture hidden in walls, floors, wood, drywall, and other building materials. Any elevated moisture readings will be noted.
Thermal Imaging
An infrared camera can detect areas of moisture intrusion and air leakage that may not be visible. Thermal imaging will identify temperature differences caused by wet areas in walls or attics, moisture under floors, gaps in siding, and poor insulation.
Testing and Inspection
The inspector will thoroughly assess common problem areas including basements, crawlspaces, attics, roofing, plumbing, exterior walls, windows, and landscapes. A detailed inspection report will document all findings.
Key Areas of Concern
Inspectors check the entire home, but pay particular attention to areas prone to moisture damage:
Basements & Crawlspaces
Basements and crawlspaces are common entry points for groundwater. The inspector will look for signs of moisture at the foundation walls, corners, floors, support posts/columns, and interior framing. Damp basement materials like insulation, drywall, and wood can trigger mold growth.
Attics
Attics should have proper ventilation to avoid condensation buildup and moisture-related deterioration of roof sheathing, rafters, and insulation. Inspectors check for wet insulation, mold on rafters/trusses, and damaged roofing.
Roofing
Roof leaks are a major source of attic and interior water damage. Inspectors examine the roof surface, flashing, gutters, and downspouts for issues allowing water intrusion. Signs include damaged/missing shingles, ponding water, leaks, and overflowing gutters.
Plumbing
Leaking or burst pipes, overflowing fixtures, and malfunctioning appliances like water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers often cause water damage. Inspectors thoroughly test plumbing systems and components for leaks or signs of past leakage.
Exterior Walls
Siding, windows, doors, and exterior wall penetrations are common paths for bulk water intrusion during storms. Inspectors check for gaps, cracks, loose flashing, and deteriorated caulking/seals around openings.
Landscaping
Improper drainage and grading near the foundation allows rain and groundwater to pool and seep into the home. Inspectors examine site drainage patterns and recommend grading fixes as needed.
Interpreting Inspection Findings
The inspection report will document locations and details of all moisture issues found. However, all findings may not be equally concerning. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Minor Issues
Not all moisture problems require major repairs. Small issues like high humidity, minor leaks, limited water stains, or surface mold may simply require cleaning, sealing, venting, or replacing worn caulking/seals.
Major Issues
Extensive water damage, structural deterioration, major leaks, and heavy mold growth indicate significant moisture intrusion requiring major repairs. Depending on the severity, repairs could involve replacing water-damaged materials, structural reinforcements, new roofing, improved drainage, etc.
Active Leaks
Active roof, plumbing, or wall leaks allowing ongoing water intrusion need urgent attention via repairs, draining, containment, and drying out water-damaged materials. Delaying leak repairs risks severe damage.
Previous Repairs
Signs of older moisture damage that has since dried out and been repaired indicate the issue was addressed. While no further repair may be needed, closely monitor these vulnerable areas for new moisture intrusion.
No Visible Damage
Hidden moisture detected through meter readings or thermal imaging, but with no visible damage yet, shows early signs of potential problems. Further monitoring, improved ventilation, sealing penetrations, and eventual repairs may be needed.
Material Condition
Moisture damage and mold growth may be minor on newer, high-quality building materials. However, moisture easily destroys older, cheaper materials like inferior plywood, particleboard, and poorly adhered wall/ceiling coverings. Consider material conditions when assessing moisture inspection findings.
Protecting Your Home
Based on inspection results, the inspector will offer recommendations to help resolve current moisture issues and prevent future damages. Here are some common ways to reduce moisture risks in your home:
Prioritize Repairs
Address all active leaks immediately. Use tarps/containers to control water intrusion until permanent repairs can be made. Focus next on issues causing the most severe damage. Monitor and eventually repair minor moisture and mold problems before they worsen.
Improve Drainage
Monitor site drainage during rains and address areas where water collects near the foundation through regrading, downspout extensions, drainage pipes, or sump pumps. Keep gutters clean and consider gutter guards to prevent clogs and overflows.
Ventilation
Run bath and kitchen exhaust fans regularly to vent moisture. Install vents/fans in damp areas like basements and attics. Make sure attic vents aren't obstructed. Open windows periodically for fresh air circulation.
HVAC Maintenance
Change air filters monthly. Have an HVAC technician inspect the system to ensure proper airflow and drainage for moisture removal. Insulate ductwork to reduce condensation buildup.
Seal Penetrations/Gaps
Caulk and seal any gaps, cracks, or openings in exterior walls and openings that could allow moisture intrusion. Ensure exterior materials and flashing are well-adhered.
Landscaping/Surface Water Control
Slope soil or add drainage channels to direct rainwater away from the foundation. Extend downspouts at least 6 feet from the foundation and position discharge away from the home. Add a vapor barrier over crawlspaces.
Monitor and Maintain
Periodically check vulnerable areas like basements and bathrooms for new moisture or leaks. Clean any minor mold with detergent. Keep painting, caulking, and repairs up-to-date. Address issues promptly to prevent major damage.
The Value of Professional Inspection
A thorough moisture inspection by a trained specialist provides enormous value for homeowners. Catching and resolving moisture problems before they escalate into major damage can save thousands in repair costs. Routine inspections give peace of mind and help protect your valuable investment.
If buying an older home, insist on a moisture inspection during the home purchase. For newer homes, periodic inspections can detect issues within the warranty period. And for any home, regular inspections ensure you stay ahead of moisture damage as components age. With the hidden risks posed by excess moisture, a professional home moisture inspection is one of the best defenses for identifying issues early and maintaining your home's structural health.