Planning Tips for Your Basement Finishing Project in Rhoadesville, VA

Orange County was home to the “Father of the Constitution”. James Madison, the 4^th president of the US had a 2700-acre estate in the county, known as Montpelier. This is also the county where Rhoadesville, VA is found. Perhaps you also have a home in Rhoadesville in Orange County, VA. Have you been thinking of making it more spacious and comfortable? Consider making your basement more useful.

Basement finishing is a good way to make useful space in the home. To have a good experience from start to end, create a good plan. This will help you to anticipate the process and prepare well for it. The following post explains how you can start off:

The Process of Finishing a Basement Remodeling Project

The first steps to a successful basement remodel includes starting small and thinking big. You also want to determine what your end goals are for your basement and what you are looking to get out of it.

If you are not sure where to begin, the fastest way to the finished product is to start as soon as you have something of value.  Yes, you may make some mistakes throughout the process, but learning from your mistakes is the absolute best method to learn.

Yes before you ask, you will need permits, but you can hold off on that step for the moment. So, are you ready to get started? Read more at Pharo Heating and Cooling…

There’s a lot you stand to gain if you finish your basement. Who wouldn’t want an extra room within the home? You could even convert it to your office or studio.

Once you start planning for your basement, having some options of what to do will help you be a step ahead. The following post gives you some:

Three Basement Finishing Systems: An Introduction

For many years, finishing a basement to create functional living space was a traditional construction project built from scratch, using lumber and drywall. Whether or not they were DIY affairs or built by a contractor, these finished basements were largely custom-built and required special techniques to limit the moisture in the basement, since the building materials did not hold up well against water. Custom-built basements are still a viable option, now there are also prefabricated designer systems available to make basement conversions easier. These ease of installation, of course, comes at a price. Read more at The Spruce…

You could make a beautiful basement area that is worth showcasing. You could create the ideal space to get away from the pressures of life.

The most important thing to do before you embark on the project is to ensure you follow the regulations. This will save you from disappointment once the work is complete. The following post explains this:

Why Do I Need a Permit?

A permit is a way of providing reasonable controls for the design, construction, use, occupancy, and maintenance of buildings, their facilities, and various components. The permit document shows that a building project is being constructed under processes for insuring code compliance and public safety.

In other words, the permit is the well-being of the community in a broader sense (and not because the government wants a reason to charge us). Read more at Hawthorne Basement Finishing…

If you need advice about the permit requirements in Rhoadesville, VA, don’t hesitate to call Bell Harig Home Inspections. We are passionate about what we do and deliver the best quality home inspection services in town. Your basement finishing will be something to be proud of. Call us today at (540) 881-0550 and be on your way to a great basement space.

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Has Your Rixeyville, VA Home Had a Sewer Line Inspection Lately?

Few homeowners remember to add sewer line inspection on their home maintenance list. The most probable reason is that a sewer line is one of those things that are “out of sight, out of mind”. Yet, as much as sewer lines are hidden underneath the ground, any plumbing system relies heavily on them. So, if you’re going to have a properly functioning home in Rixeyville, VA, you can’t afford to ignore the sewer line.

If you are not familiar with what sewer line/camera inspections are all about, you need not worry. The following post should help bring you up to speed:

What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

If you’ve done any research on sewer line problems, you’ve probably seen something about “sewer cameras” or “video pipe inspections.” Any plumber worth their salt uses this technique when diagnosing sewer backups or sewer pipe damage, so it’s wise for homeowners to know what sewer camera inspections are and what they’re used for should a sewer problem ever arise.

How Sewer Line Cameras Work

The purpose of a sewer camera is to be able to see what’s causing a blockage or backup within the sewer pipe without digging up the yard or just guessing what the problem is. Because sewer repairs and pipe replacements are no small task, this helps homeowners avoid expensive repairs without knowing for certain that their problem will be solved when the work is done. Read more at Len The Plumber…

You really don’t have to wait until you have a plumbing problem to call up the sewer line inspection experts. Prevention is always better than cure.

There are many ways in which an inspection can do your sewer line some good. The following post explains the benefits of sewer line inspection:

Benefits of Sewer Line Camera Inspections

The technology at the disposal of the modern plumbing team is becoming ever more complex. Now, teams can depend on the latest sewer line cameras to complete their repair and installation work, and this has a number of benefits for both the team and for homeowners. To help guide you regarding the value of sewer line camera inspections, we’ll highlight some of the benefits of the process in this latest post.

Quickly Locate a Leak

The leading benefit of sewer line inspections is they can be used to quickly find a leak or break in the line. A common challenge for plumbers inspecting sewer lines is the time the process takes. The longer that it takes to find a leak, the worse the potential damage from the leak can become. And many companies are harnessing sewer line cameras to complete comprehensive inspections of the line. Read more at Brothers Plumbing

You can prevent many unnecessary problems when you choose to call in the sewer line inspection experts. This may also save you from spending money on extensive repairs.

A sewer line inspection is also important if you are planning to buy or sell a home in Rixeyville, VA. The following post explains this:

Sewer Inspections for Older Homes

Few first-time homebuyers consider sewer inspections before buying homes. They know they should get a home inspection, but sewer lines are almost an after-thought. Yet this is one of the most important inspections a buyer of older homes should conduct because it can turn up numerous problems that can be seriously expensive to fix.

The time to find out if a sewer is faulty or needs replacement is before you buy, not after the fact.

Reasons to Inspect the Sewer Line

All buyers should obtain a sewer inspection if the home in question is more than 20 years old. The line might be fairly new compared to homes built before 1950, but tree roots can still clog it up over 20 years or so, and this is a fairly common problem. Read more at The Balance…

Instead of just hoping that all is well with your home in Culpeper County, just get a sewer line expert to check it out. This will give you the peace of mind you need about the condition of your home.

Bell Harig Home Inspections has a combined experience of 60 years dealing with residential property sewer line inspections. Reach out to us today for the best deal in Rixeyville, VA.

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Considering an Energy-Saving Home Improvement Project in Thornburg, VA?

Did you know that Thornburg, VA in Spotsylvania County had another name in the years gone by? It was formerly known as Mudd Tavern. You might wonder how that change came to be. However, it is known throughout history that human beings resist change. The comfort zone of familiarity often prevents us from venturing into the unknown. This, however, should not stop you from considering a new home improvement strategy.

Energy concerns are globally recognized. Anything that has the potential to either save or minimize energy use is acceptable. The following post highlights some energy-saving home improvement ideas:

Energy Efficient Home Improvements

Did you know that the more you use your air conditioning, the more quickly it will need to be replaced? There are energy efficient home improvements you can make that will not only make your home feel more comfortable, but also help your HVAC system last longer. If you’re looking at replacing your windows, roof or siding, consider these options.

Replacement Windows

When you think of energy efficient home improvements, you probably think of your windows. After all, last winter you probably walked by one or sat near one and felt the cold. In the summer, the sun and heat come through old single pane windows leading to a warmer home. Today’s windows are not only better sealed, but also have Low-e glass which helps reflect the sun’s rays… Read more at Peak Roofing Contractors Inc…

Making your home energy efficient may seem to be an expensive investment upfront. However, the benefits you stand to gain will be worth your bucks.

The good news is that apart from the long-term savings you stand to gain, there are some tax credits that are available if you invest in green energy equipment. The following post explains this further:

Energy Tax Credit: Which Home Improvements Qualify?

Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit

Equipment that qualifies for the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit includes solar, wind, geothermal and fuel-cell technology:

• Solar panels, or photovoltaics, for generating electricity. The electricity must be used in the home.

• Solar-powered water heaters. The water heated by the system must be used inside the home, and at least half of the home's water-heating capacity must be solar. (Solar heaters for swimming pools and hot tubs do not qualify.) Read more at Intuit Turbotax…

The best part about energy-saving equipment is that the benefits contribute to the preservation of the fast depleting energy sources in the world. This is in addition to making your domestic energy resources secure.

The best approach to such an investment is ensuring everything you do meets the regulatory standards provided. For instance, some home improvements require a permit before they can be undertaken. The following post sheds more light on this matter:

When Do You Need a Building Permit?

For many different types of home repair and improvement jobs, permits are required. Though simple repairs usually don’t call for permits, additions or major changes—particularly those that involve structural work, electrical, heating, and plumbing—usually demand that you get the appropriate permits from the local building department. If you’re working with a contractor or subcontractor, this professional usually handles the permit process.

If your job falls within this category and your tradesperson suggests that you don’t need a permit, be wary and check with the building department yourself. In most cases, getting a permit means the work will be inspected by the necessary officials. Read more at Home Tips…

Do yourself a favor and don’t ignore the legal and safety aspects of any home improvement idea you have. Otherwise, you may have a hard time in the future, particularly if you choose to sell your home.

For all your home inspection concerns in Spotsylvania, VA, reach out to Bell Harig Home Inspections. Our expert home inspectors are committed to providing excellent services to our esteemed clients. Call us on (540) 881-0550 to schedule an appointment today.

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Facts About The Radon Levels in Your Stafford, VA Home

One would easily think that Stafford, VA and Stafford County, VA are the same place. However, in the list of census-designated places, Stafford, VA is known as Stafford Courthouse. Even so, the county was home to the first president, George Washington. One of the significant places in Stafford is The Washington Family Farm. This is where George Washington spent his early days. You should make a point to visit the farm. Yet, more than that, you would be happier to know your home’s radon levels are properly managed.

What do you know about radon? And what is there to know about it? Is there anything you can do about a harmful element that is naturally occurring? Find out more about radon in the following post:

What you need to know about radon

What is Radon?

• A colorless, gaseous radioactive element that’s extremely toxic
• Discovered in 1900 by Friedrich Ernst Dorn
• Elevated radon levels in homes was not recognized as a potential public health threat until the mid-1980s

Radon Health Effects

• • Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped into your lungs when you breathe, according to the Virginia Department of Health. Read more at WSLS.Com…

Such information can easily cause distress. This is because the risk of cancer that comes with it makes it even worse. However, such basic information may not offer a solution.

How then, do you address these issues at home? How do you interpret risk and the recommended course of action? The following post explains more on these concerns:

Radon levels: What do they mean?

What are my radon levels, and what do they mean?

Measuring radon levels in a home or building is key to protecting the health of anyone breathing the air, but interpreting those levels is not quite as exact without a radon detector. As they say, everything is relative, and what is an acceptable radon level to one country or organization may differ from what is acceptable to another. This is influenced by numerous factors including the type of rocks and soil beneath a building, ventilation and duration of time spent in the building… Read more at Air Things…

This calls for a specific strategy on how to handle radon levels in Stafford, bearing in mind its physical location on the map of Virginia.

Need some practical steps to handle Radon in your home? The following post explains what you can do:

How to Get Rid of Radon

If high radon levels have been discovered in your home, there's no doubt it's time to step into action. Radon is a radioactive gas and a leading cause of lung cancer, which means that you and your family are at risk of developing lung cancer if you do not get rid of the radon. As dire as this news bulletin may sound, the good news is that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says that you can reduce the radon levels in your home by up to 99 percent with a radon reduction system. And you can augment this effort by sealing and ventilating your home.

Step 1

Hire a certified radon specialist.

Read more at Hunker…

Make the right choices and ensure your family’s health is protected by working with Radon specialists. The good news is that Bell Harig Home Inspections has all it takes to give you the peace of mind you need, knowing that your home’s radon concerns are well taken care of. Call today to get your home tested for radon.

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Make The Most of Your Spotsylvania, VA Home Through Home Additions

Spotsylvania is rich in American history. In fact, it is listed among the Historic Sites in Virginia. Living here gives you more privileges than you might bargain for. Since the county is referred to as the “Crossroads of the Civil War”, you’d have access to several historic sites and interesting information about the past. As you gain knowledge of the richness of your surroundings, you may also be thinking of how to add value to your home.

Home additions are a good way of enhancing your home experience. Think of an extra bath or outdoor kitchen. These can go a long way in transforming your home experience. What do you need to know before you embark on the project? Read more in the following post:

New Additions: The Importance of Permits When Improving Your Home

The prospect of building an addition onto your home is an exciting one. Whether you’re dreaming of an extra bedroom, a screened-in porch or an extension of your living room, additions can provide much-needed space to a home you already love. Before you begin daydreaming of how you’ll decorate your new addition, though, it’s important to first consider the steps required for having certified work completed on your home. While it’s tempting to take a DIY approach and forgo the traditional permitting process, homeowners should think twice before proceeding. The headaches that often accompany such shortcuts aren’t worth the risk. Read more at ICA…

If you’re into DIY-ing, you’d best be clear about what would be acceptable in the future and what wouldn’t. You don’t want to invest and then lose out on your time and money later.

While it’s not advisable to take shortcuts, and the idea of getting permits can feel like a bother, you don’t have to dread permits so much. The following post explains why:

12 Important Things to Understand About Building Permits

A great many home improvements and repairs are done by homeowners and even some contractors without the benefit of legally required building permits and the mandatory inspections that go with them. The reasons for bypassing these regulations are many, often because a homeowner or contractor is trying to dodge the expense of the permit, or because they fear that taxes will increase if improvements are officially cataloged. In reality, most (not all) of the fears regarding the permit process are groundless, and the potential for serious problems is quite large if you fail to apply for the proper permits and fail to have your work inspected. Here are twelve realities about the building permit process that many people do not realize. Read more at The Spruce…

Do you feel like most of what you knew about permits was exaggerated? You’re probably wondering what the fuss was all about. Well, knowledge truly is power.

Have you been wondering whether to tear down and rebuild your home, or just include a home addition? Then the following post will shed light on your question:

Tearing Down a House

Tearing down a house might be easier and cheaper than trying to fix up a home that has completely deteriorated. It's also less expensive than, say, moving a home to another lot. But sometimes the home is in such poor condition that it can't be salvaged.

Is the House Worth Tearing Down?

Before hiring a bulldozer to slam into your house and smash it into smithereens, consider hiring a consultant who can advise you whether it actually makes financial sense to tear down the house. A house that may look like a total ruin to you might be salvageable. Fixing crumbling walls, sagging roofs, or sloping foundations is not as expensive as you may imagine. Read more at The Balance…

Seeking advice is essential in whatever decision you need to make concerning your Spotsylvania, VA home. It would be better than trying to go solo.

At Bell Harig Home Inspections, we pride ourselves in offering our clients the necessary information and guidance in matters of home additions. We also have 60 years’ worth of experience with residential building inspections. We’re sure to get you on the right track. Call us today on (540) 881-0550 for all the advice you need.

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Transform Your Hartwood, VA Dream Home Into A Safe Haven

It is one thing to have a dream home. Having it in Hartwood, VA makes it all the more appealing. One of the tour destinations found in Hartwood, VA is the winery. Hartwood Winery is the ideal place to visit whenever you have guests who just love good wine, or if you're visiting in Stafford County. You’ll enjoy learning about the grapes and how they've turned into those popular wines.

Living in Hartwood would make your home the ultimate holiday destination for your family and friends who fancy wine tours. That's just one of the reasons why you want your home to keep your home Radon-free. In Virginia, Radon levels need to be checked frequently. The following post explains why:

What is Radon?

Radon is a gas that you cannot smell, taste or see. Radon forms naturally when uranium, thorium, or radium, (radioactive metals) breaks down in rocks, soil, and groundwater. People can be exposed to radon primarily from breathing radon in air that comes through cracks and gaps in buildings and homes. Because radon comes naturally from the earth, people are always exposed to it.

Having your home tested is the only effective way to determine whether you or your family is at risk of high radon exposure. Read more at CDC…

The last thing you want is to be in a constant state of risk in your home. Why not ensure your home is safe for you and your loved ones?

If you are wondering how to deal with Radon or when you should take action, then the following post will be helpful:

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) and the Surgeon General’s Office have estimated that as many as 20,000 deaths are caused each year by radon.  Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and according to the US EPA, nearly 1 in 4 homes checked in seven states, and on three Indian lands, had screening levels over 4 pCi/L, the EPA’s recommended action level for exposure.

The alpha radiation emitted by radon is the same alpha radiation emitted by other alpha generating radiation sources such as plutonium.

A family whose has radon levels of 4 pCi/L is exposed to approximately 35 times as much radiation as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission would allow if that family was standing next to the fence of a radioactive waste site. (25 mrem limit, 800 mrem exposure) Read more at Radon.Com…

Radon exposure is something you don’t want to take a chance on. Schedule for a Radon test as soon as possible.

Finally, a genuine concern would be whether the Radon levels can change over time. The following post answers this question in detail:

Natural causes of radon level fluctuation:

• Light wind or rain – light wind and rain are generally not a big concern when it comes to radon level changes, but if they do have an effect it will be very small in terms of radon test results.

• Heavy storms – heavy wind, rain, or other stormy conditions can have a severe impact on your radon test levels, however. The radon levels of your home can become higher during rainstorms, and this is due to barometric pressure changes as well as changes in the soil beneath and around your home. Read more at American Radon LLC…

Radon levels are subject to environmental factors. However, you can take an active role in ensuring your home is safe for all who live there.

The good news is that you don’t have to struggle with this issue alone. Leave the work to the experts. Looking for Radon Testing services in Stafford County? Don’t hesitate to call Bell Harig Home Inspections today. Our combined experience of 60 years is worth investing in. Make an appointment with us – call (540) 881-0550.

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Investing in a Kitchen Remodel in Partlow, VA? Read This…

If you’ve been wondering how to go about your kitchen remodel in Partlow, VA, then this post is for you. In most cases, the size of your project will depend on your budget. There are many remodeling options available for you. However, you need to dream within your means and what is practical for you. That way, you will enjoy the full benefits of your investment.

There are also rules and regulations you need to adhere to when planning your project. The following post highlights some of them:

When we meet with homeowners regarding their upcoming kitchen remodel, many consumers will ask whether or not they need a kitchen remodel permit from the city.  Sometimes they will ask us what the process is for obtaining a permit. Other times homeowners will ask how long the permit process will take.  Here is some general information about permits for remodeling your kitchen. Read more at Classic Home Improvements…

As long as your remodeling project doesn’t involve major structural changes, you may not require a permit. However, it’s important to consult before you begin any work.

If you’re looking at a complete makeover of your kitchen and don’t know where to start, the following post can help you get started:

Remodeling Your Kitchen—An Order of Steps

You don't have to spend a fortune to make your kitchen look like a million bucks. Establish a plan for the kitchen remodel before you jump in with a sledgehammer and start knocking down walls.

You might begin by visiting home improvement stores and thumbing through remodeling magazines to get an idea of the type of kitchen you want. Try to incorporate the way your kitchen is presently used. Plan your kitchen around the style of your home. Little looks worse than updating an Old-World Craftsman kitchen with cherry cabinets and white appliances. Read more at The Balance…

Whatever way you go about your remodeling project, you should do it in a way that makes sense and that will make you happy.

The sense of fulfillment you get will be worth it in the end if you do what you desire most. This is because the financial returns attached to the new home's value may not recover 100% of the cost, as the following post explains:

Cash Cow or Risky Move: How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Increase Home Value?

Is your kitchen straight out of the 80s? You know the style: closed off from the rest of the house, plain oak cabinets, a clunky island, ugly taupe countertops, peel-and-stick tile flooring. If so, maybe it’s time for a remodel so down the road, you can sell your house for more. But let’s be honest. How much does a kitchen remodel increase home value?

Ultimately, you’re not likely to get back everything you paid for your kitchen remodel when you sell your home. It’s a popular but low return project. Do your research here before starting demolition—you’ll learn about the cost, what you gain, and what you can do to decrease expenses. Read more at Home Light…

You can always tweak your kitchen remodel project so that it is less costly but adds more value to your home.

If you need a home inspector to advise you as you plan for your kitchen project, feel free to call Bell Harig Home Inspections. Benefit from our combined experience of 60 years in maintaining, remodeling and building residential and commercial properties. We are proudly serving both Northern and Central Virginia.

Call us today on (540)-881-0550 or schedule an appointment with us using the contact form on our website.

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Here’s How To Protect Your Garrisonville Home From Radon

Are you planning to buy a retirement home in Garrisonville, VA? Or have you been thinking of moving away from the hustle and bustle of city life and settle in a quiet community? Garrisonville fits the description. Located in Stafford County, this unincorporated community could very well be your ideal choice for a home once you retire.

Just as is the case in all Virginia, the risk of radon exposure is present. However, this shouldn’t be enough reason to abandon ship and look for a new place to call home. Did you know January was Radon Awareness month? Read about it in the following post:

Free and discounted radon tests are available in January

METRO DETROIT — You can’t see, smell or taste it — but radon lurking in your home in winter months when doors and windows stay closed, which allows radon to collect, can cause lung cancer.

January is Radon Action Month, and radon tests are available for free or at discounted costs through the end of the month.

According to the Macomb County Health Department, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of about 21,000 Americans each year.

According to a press release from the Macomb County Health Department, the only way to know if your home has a radon problem is to test for it. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. surgeon general recommend testing all homes for radon. Read more at C&G News…

You can take advantage of such advocacy efforts to ensure your home is in good condition. This way, you know that you don’t have to struggle alone.

Let’s bring it home now. Apart from the country-wide awareness of Radon, it’s critical to be aware of the Radon risk in Virginia as a state. The following post provides more details on this:

Why You Need a Radon Test if You’re Buying a House in Virginia

When uranium in the earth’s crust decays, it turns into radium. This, in turn, can turn into an odorless, colorless gas called radon, which may seep through the rock and soil, and emerge into your home.

Radon is extremely harmful to your health, and is one of the leading causes of lung cancer – but it’s undetectable without proper testing. That’s why radon testing in Virginia is so important…

Radon gas can be released anywhere, and Virginia has three radon zones which have a particularly high risk… Read more at Lambert Home Inspections…

Stafford County lies along the high-risk belt in Virginia. So, getting your prospective new home radon-tested is a good idea.

Perhaps your next concern would be how often you would need to do the Radon test in your home. The following post offers helpful advice:

How Often Do I Need to Test for Radon?

In past articles we’ve discussed why it’s important to test for radon in your home. But, there seems to be confusion around the topic of when and how often testing should actually be done.

There is a common misconception that if your test shows radon levels below the EPA action level, you’re set. But, think of it this way…if your 6-month dental check-up shows no cavities, does that mean you never have to go back for an exam?

Radon testing is not a one-and-done practice. Regardless of whether your property passes or fails a test, follow-ups are critical. Let’s take a look at how often you should test and why. Read more at Lansing State Journal…

So, to ensure your home is secure, include radon testing in your home maintenance list. You can’t go wrong if you take a proactive approach to ensuring your home is radon-free.

Feeling overwhelmed with all this info? We're here for you. Bell Harig Home Inspections is ready to ensure your safety each time your home needs a radon-test. Call us up today on (540) 881-0550.

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Helpful Tips As You Plan To Remodel Your Locust Grove, VA Home

Located in Orange County, Locust Grove was so named because of the many Black Locust trees that dot the region. If you visit the area, you might consider driving the extra 26 minutes to Fredericksburg, VA. That way, you’ll also get the chance for a lesson in American history.

Locust Grove is also a populous area and a potentially lucrative real estate market. So if you have plans to upgrade your home in this locale, you want to think carefully about how you'll handle your project. The following post offers some tips for getting the best value from your remodeling project:

Home Renovations Guide: How to Add Value to Your Home

When you renovate or upgrade your home, there are a few things to consider before deciding the best way to spend your renovation dollars. For example, will the project make your home more functional or an overall better place to live? If you have four bedrooms and one bathroom, adding a second bathroom might tremendously improve the general living conditions of your home.

There's also the consideration of keeping everything in a good state of repair and replacing worn-out components of your home. A roof replacement won't necessarily improve the functionality of your home (unless the old one is falling apart), but it can give you the peace of mind that you won't have to worry about leaks anytime soon. Read more at Million Acres…

All remodeling projects are good but some will achieve more for you than others. Knowing which ones to go for is a great first step.

There are other factors (mostly external) that could negatively affect your remodeling project. The following post provides insight into some of them:

Four steps that will make your home renovation a little less painful

If you think bringing your garish 1960s-era kitchen up to date is just a matter of new paint and appliances, think again.

Home renovations modernize your dwelling, potentially make it more energy-efficient and may enhance its appeal when you sell your home.

The trouble is that an overhaul of your house can often be more complex — and more expensive — than originally anticipated.

Consider that a midrange minor kitchen remodel — wherein you’re replacing the front of your cabinets and swapping out countertops — costs an average of $22,507, according to Remodeling Magazine. Read more at CNBC…

One of the critical things to do is get a permit for any project you plan to undertake. This will help you avoid disappointments, as discussed in the post above.

Wondering what kind of projects require a permit? The following post highlights some of them:

Home Improvements That Require Permits

If you purchased your home prior to the recent housing collapse, your investment may not be paying off the way you had hoped. If your home is on the market, you might be struggling to get an offer high enough to pay off your mortgage. For that reason, some homeowners are taking on remodeling projects to raise the value of their homes.

For the do-it-yourself remodeler, obtaining permits is expensive, time-consuming, and sometimes frustrating, but for many home renovations it's necessary and required. Read more at Investopedia…

Don’t overlook the legal steps in any process since they could end up haunting you in the days to come. You may even have a hard time selling the home if the renovations weren’t approved.

A home inspection is a good idea before you begin any remodeling project. This will reveal any areas that require immediate attention. This would also help you to reprioritize if necessary and ensure your home is functional and in the best condition.

Bell Harig Home Inspections is here to ensure you get a thorough home inspection. We will leave no stone unturned. You can entrust your Locust Grove, VA home to our experts. Call us today to get started on the right foot.

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Is Your Fredericksburg, VA Home Slowly Becoming Another Battlefield?

Fredericksburg is significant in the history of the United States. Its physical proximity to an intersection of the Rappahannock River and the Atlantic Seaboard fall line qualified it to function as a port. The famous Battles of Fredericksburg took place here. Visitors can learn more about them by visiting the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park.

While matters of battles are thankfully historical, your Fredericksburg, VA home may slowly be turning into a battlefield that you aren’t aware of. How?

Typical home maintenance checklists often overlook a critical part of your home. Beneath your home, there are pipes that are responsible for draining away all wastewater. If not properly taken care of, they could be the source of problems threatening your home's functionality. And that can feel like a battle. The following post describes one of the potential issues that could face your sewer line:

Sag/Belly

A sewer belly or sewer sag is fallen spots or sagging spots in sewer lines. A normal sewer line will be straight and have a slight downward slope like a slide to move water downward by gravity.

A sewer line with a belly or sag in the middle will cut off the downward slope causing the pipes to be in a “V” shape.   This can lead to clogs because the water cannot go up the pipe by gravity after the sagging part, causing water and sediment to collect in the belly. Read more at A1 Sewer & Drain Services…

When wastewater is unable to drain away naturally, you may notice water backing up in your drains. The nuisance that would result is not a pleasant sight.

The good news is that you can discover such a problem or others in their early stages through a sewer line inspection. Learn more about such inspections in the following post:

Everything You Must Know About Sewer Camera Inspection

A sewer camera inspection will help to keep the sewer line of your property in a perfect and flawless condition. It hardly matters whether it is a residential or a commercial property, this type of camera inspection will aid the property owners to identify any issue beforehand and thus maintain its functionality in an effectual manner.

What exactly is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

It is the process of inspecting the sewer line of any property and for this, a video camera has to be inserted within the sewer pipe on most occasions. This will help to identify any prospective issues with the help of a high-resolution video cam. Amongst the issues which can be identified mention may be made of breaks, cracks, leakages, as well as blockages, including roots too. Read more at Raptor Plumbing…

A sewer camera inspection may well be the intervention for your home’s drainage system. Getting one is a worthwhile investment. It will prevent costly sewer repair or replacement projects.

Once the inspection is complete and all the issues sorted, to avoid future problems, some maintenance is required. The following post explains how you can do this:

4 Basic Sewer Maintenance Tips

Sewer backups and overflows are costly and inconvenient. While the Best Plumbing team is always available to help fix your sewer problems, there are small things you can do to take care of your sewer, too. Here are a few basic tips to help you maintain your Seattle area home and prevent sewer backups.

1. Dispose of Grease Properly

Grease is a common cause of sewer blockages and backups. You should never pour cooking oil or grease down a drain or flush it down a toilet. Even if it’s in liquid form when you pour it down the drain, it will eventually cool and solidify, resulting in a blockage in your drain and sewer line. Rather than pouring grease down your pipes, always scrape it into the garbage. Read more at Best Plumbing…

You don’t have to wait until you’re in an emergency to call in the experts. Plus, you don’t have to look too far as you look for professional sewer inspection services in Fredericksburg, VA. Bell Harig Home Inspections is the company to work with. Our commitment to excellent service delivery is one you can count on for quality and reliable services. Call us today!

See original post here: Is Your Fredericksburg, VA Home Slowly Becoming Another Battlefield?

Are You Aware of The Radon-Status of Your Marshall, VA Home?

The history of Fauquier County, which hosts Marshall, VA, is quite interesting. It is said that the county was named after Francis Fauquier. He won the land through a poker game while he was governor of Virginia. He served in this capacity from 1758-1768. Fast forward to today, and you’ll realize that Fauquier County ranks at the top of high-income counties in the US.

Despite the prosperity in the county, Marshall, VA is not Radon-proof. That means despite the strong economy, we shouldn't let our guard down or gamble about our health. If you don't feel well-informed about Radon, the following post should get you up-to-speed:

Radon Testing and the 7 Key Things Every Homeowner Should Know

Radon testing is the only way to know whether your home has high levels of radon, a radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer over time. Here's what you need to know about radon testing and reducing radon levels in your home.

What is radon?

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that’s produced by decaying uranium. It’s present in nearly all soils, and very low levels of radon are found in the air we breathe every day, according to the American Cancer Society.

Why is radon a problem?

The problem occurs when radon gas enters your home and gets trapped. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can cause lung cancer. Read more at The Healthy…

Yes, Radon is a cause of cancer. The fact that Uranium is present in all soils doesn’t help. So it's worth the trouble to do your due diligence and get your home tested.

You’re probably wondering what you need to do before your home gets tested. It's advisable to take the time to learn what you can about Radon testing. The following post is a good place to start:

Short-term radon test kits are not effective in measuring radon gas exposure

A new study finds the only reliable way to measure exposure to radon gas is with a long-term testing kit, 90 or more days. Researchers placed two test kits, a short term (five-day) and long term (90-day) in the same homes. Tests were conducted during summer and winter months. Findings showed the short-term kits were imprecise up to 99 percent of the time when compared to a long-term test.  Read more at Science Daily…

If anything is worth doing, it’s worth doing well, as the saying goes. Don’t give yourself a raw deal. You may end up facing the exact problem you’re trying to avoid.

So, now that short-term tests aren’t effective, the best method of testing is what we need to establish. Should you get a DIY long-term test? Find out in the following post:

Radon Testing Kits vs. Professional Assessment

If you are a regular reader to this website, I think you understand the importance of radon testing.  It is a serious health issue and the second leading cause of lung cancer. “Should you have radon testing done?” is not the question per se; that is obvious.  But for many, the next logical question becomes “How should we perform radon testing?”.    Let’s compare radon testing with a professional assessment.

If you venture to any hardware store, you may find a DIY radon test kit that you can purchase rather inexpensively.  Is this the route to go? Do you really need to hire a professional radon tester?

Call me biased, but for most scenarios, I would recommend a professional radon expert with the appropriate credentials.  If I were asked “why you should hire an expert?”, I would answer in three words – “peace of mind”. Let me explain. Read more at Indoor Science…

By now, you understand just how critical it is to get proper Radon testing for your home. The next thing to do is to choose a provider.

The good news is, you don’t have to worry about where to get these services in Marchall, VA. At Bell Harig Home Inspections, we provide excellent Radon Testing services. You can count on us for a reliable report at a competitive price. Call us today to book an appointment.

Don’t Skip The Home Inspection Stage While Buying Your Culpeper, VA Home

The idea of buying a home in Culpeper, VA can be appealing for several reasons. For starters, this is the only incorporated town in Culpeper County, VA. This fact alone is a guarantee that you will enjoy good government services. Also, there is an elaborate transportation network that makes the movement to other cities easy if your job requires it.

Even so, regardless of how excited you are about your new home, don't forget your due diligence. The following post explains why you shouldn’t ignore a home inspection:

Importance of Home Inspection Contingency

Before you buy a home, one of the things you should do is to have it checked out by a professional home inspector. Yes, we can hear your objection: “Buying a home is expensive enough as it is! Why would I choose to fork over hundreds more if I'm not required to?” In this article, we'll delve into what a home inspection can reveal and whether it's worth the investment.

The Home Inspection Contingency

Home inspections are used to provide an opportunity for a buyer to identify any major issues with a home prior to closing. Read more at Investopedia…

A home inspection won’t be cost-free, however, it can save you lots of trouble and financial loss in the long run.

So, suppose you agree to get the inspection, and some issues are detected, what is your next step? The following post gives insight into what you should do next:

Your Options After a Home Inspection

A home inspection can help identify deficiencies in a home you’re considering purchasing. If the inspection reveals problems are at work or repairs are needed, you may be able to negotiate with the seller to fix those issues. You can also ask for credits toward your closing costs in order to make up for them.

If you have a home inspection contingency in place, and the issues your inspector finds are deal-breakers, you may be able to back out of the purchase entirely. If you decide to go this route, you should be able to receive the deposit you put toward the purchase back in full. Read more at The Balance…

Ideally, a home inspection shouldn’t get you stuck. It will clarify your next step, that is, whether to proceed with caution or abandon ship altogether.

So, if you decide to proceed with the deal, you also need to be clear about the role you and your seller play in this new development. The following post explains this:

Who Pays for Repairs After a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is one of the last hurdles that buyers and sellers have to get through before the sale of the property is complete. It’s also one of the most important. The inspection is a buyer’s final chance to identify any problems with the home that they’re investing in, including areas that are in need of repair. And it’s pretty common to want a couple repairs after a home inspection—especially in older homes. But who’s responsible for paying for them: the buyer or the seller?

As it turns out, there’s a lot that goes in to determining who pays for repairs after a home inspection. This includes the offer contract, as well as the types of repairs being requested and the laws in your state.  Read more at Moving.Com…

As with most things, ‘the devil is in the details' also applies to home purchases? As you go through the home buying process, don’t ignore anything written in the fine print. Work with a realtor who is concerned about your welfare as much as in getting a commission, if not more.

At the end of the day, what you need is a reliable home inspection. One that leaves no stone unturned and one that you can trust. If you are planning to buy a home in Culpeper County, Bell Harig Home Inspections is the company you can count on for excellent services. Reach out to us today.

How to Prepare for a Home Inspection

So you’ve listed your home, found a buyer, and accepted a purchase price. The sale of your house is almost a done deal, but it’s not quite time to pack the moving boxes yet – you still have to make it through the home inspection.

In a typical real estate transaction, the home inspection occurs after the buyer has signed a purchase agreement and before the final closing date. Most home buyers choose to make the closing contingent on the results of the home inspection, meaning that they can back out of the sale if the inspector finds something that is not to their liking and the seller is unwilling to repair it or lower the purchase price to account for it. As a seller, you’re going to want the home inspection to go as smoothly as possible, with little to no major issues detected.

But first: What does a home inspector do? During the inspection, properties are examined top to bottom, with emphasis placed on evaluating the roof, walls, foundation, plumbing system, electrical system, and HVAC system. Inspectors will also check for the operational ability of installed systems, such as garbage disposals and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as for leaks, mold, mildew, and other signs of water damage.

As a seller, it’s common to get nervous during the home inspection process. You don’t want the deal to fall through, nor do you want to be stuck with the cost and burden of repairs if your buyer requests them as a contingency. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to prepare for the inspection.

1. Provide open access to areas that need to be checked

Make sure that the home inspector has easy access throughout the property. If they can’t get to an area, they can’t inspect it, and that will be a red flag for buyers. Clear away any clutter impeding access to areas or systems that the inspector needs to take a look at, including basements, attics, furnace rooms, and under sinks.
   
2. Clear the perimeter

In addition to checking the interior functioning of your home, the inspector is also going to be looking at the exterior, including siding, trims, and caulking around windows and doors. You’ll want to leave areas around your home clear of plant growth, trash cans, and stored items so they can get an unimpeded look.
   
3. Check the roof

When’s the last time you took a good look at the roof of your house? For most sellers, it’s been awhile. The roof is a key part of the home inspection though, so you can’t ignore it in your preparations. Get out a ladder and clean moss and debris from the gutters, check for damaged or missing tiles, and make sure downspouts are in their proper position. If you do find damage on the roof, you’ll want to get it taken care of prior to the home inspection.
   
4. Keep a clean house

If you’ve already been going through the process of selling your house, you’re probably already pretty adept at this point at keeping everything clean and tidy. Resist the urge to let things build up after an accepted offer and maintain the same level of cleanliness for the home inspector. How clean your home is doesn’t play into the inspection itself, but a dirty or messy house may make the inspector suspicious that other areas of the property aren’t properly taken care of either.
   
5. Replace any bulbs that are out

A blown bulb suggests two things to a home inspector: either the bulb itself is out, or there’s something faulty in the fixture’s wiring. The inspector will either have to waste time determining whether a fixture is inoperable or they’ll simply note that there’s a possible defect without looking further into it. Avoid both of these scenarios by making sure that all of your bulbs are in working order.

6. Make sure your toilets are functioning properly

Does your toilet run for a long time after you flush? It’s a common problem that gets easy to ignore when you’re living with it every day, but it’s not something you want your home inspector to come upon. Fixing a running toilet is an easy and inexpensive repair you can take care of on your own with a simple trip to the hardware store, so take care of the problem before the inspection.

7. Put in a fresh furnace return filter

Regularly replacing the furnace filter in your home is important for air quality and the overall functioning of your heating system. Instead of making the inspector concerned that you haven’t been taking good care of your home’s heating and air, clean or replace the existing filter and show that it’s something you do pay attention to.

8. Turn all pilot lights on

The pilot light in your water heater is probably always on (and you would have noticed already if it wasn’t), but what about the pilot light in your gas fireplace? Many homeowners turn their fireplace off in warmer months, so it’s important to double check that the pilot light – and the fireplace itself – is working prior to inspection. If you’ve turned off your fireplace’s pilot light, now is the time to get it going again.

Read Full Article Here: How to Prepare for a Home Inspection