​Understanding the lifespan of your shingles is crucial for maintaining your home and budgeting for future expenses. Here in the Midwest, our intense heat and cold, humidity, heavy rainfall, snow or ice can significantly impact the life of your roof. In this post, I’ll explain the typical lifespan of common roofing types and discuss the factors that can accelerate aging as well as wear and tear.

Would you like a professional assessment of your roof’s condition? Contact Vital Property Inspections to schedule your home inspection!


                                                             Average Lifespan Based on Shingle Type

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3-Tab Shingles: These are the most basic and affordable type of shingles. In the Midwest, you can expect them to last around 15 to 20 years. However, their thinner profile and lower wind resistance make them more susceptible to damage from storms and high winds.  

Architectural Shingles: Also known as dimensional shingles, these are the most common and offer a more textured and aesthetically pleasing look. They are also thicker and more durable than 3-tab shingles, typically lasting 25 to 30 years. Their increased wind resistance makes them a popular choice for our storm-prone region.  

Luxury Shingles: For homeowners seeking the longest lifespan and premium aesthetics, luxury shingles are the top choice. These high-end shingles are designed to mimic the look of slate or wood shake and can last 30 to 50 years. They offer superior durability and wind resistance, often coming with impressive warranties.  

Remember, these are just average lifespans. The actual lifespan of your shingles can vary significantly.

​Even the best shingles won’t last long if they’re not installed correctly. Proper installation is essential for ensuring your roof’s longevity. Commonly I see multiple layers of shingles on a roof.  This may be permitted in some jurisdictions, but doing so can decrease the life of your roof by over half.
Adequate Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation is vital for regulating temperature and moisture levels. Without it, heat and moisture can build up, causing shingles to deteriorate prematurely and potentially leading to mold growth.  
Correct Nailing and Flashing: Shingles must be nailed securely and in the correct pattern to withstand wind uplift. Flashing, the material used to seal joints and valleys, must be installed meticulously to prevent leaks.  
Tips for Optimizing Your Shingle Lifespan
Shingle Quality and Warranty
Investing in higher-quality roofing material often pays off in the long run. Premium shingles typically have better warranties and are manufactured to withstand harsher weather conditions. Look for shingles with high wind ratings and strong warranties to ensure your roof’s protection.  
Maintenance
Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your shingles. This includes:  
Annual Inspections: Have your roof inspected at least once a year, especially after storms, to identify any damage or potential issues.  
Timely Repairs: Address any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration and costly repairs down the road.  
Gutter Cleaning: Keep your gutters clean and free of debris to ensure proper water drainage and prevent water damage.  
Tree Trimming: Trim overhanging tree branches to prevent debris buildup and damage from falling limbs.
Signs that Your Shingles May Need to Be Replaced
Recognizing the signs of an aged or damaged roof is crucial for preventing costly damage to your home. While a professional home inspection is always recommended, there are some telltale signs you can look out for yourself. 

• Curling, Cracking, or Missing Shingles: These are often the most obvious signs of an aging roof. Curling and cracking indicate that the shingles are losing their flexibility and becoming brittle. Missing shingles leave your roof vulnerable to leaks.
• Granule Loss: As shingles age, they lose their protective granules. These granules can often be found in your gutters. Excessive granule loss is a sign that your shingles are nearing the end of their life.
• Sagging or Uneven Rooflines: A sagging roofline can indicate structural issues, potentially caused by water damage or weakened supports. This requires immediate attention.
• Moss or Algae Growth: While moss and algae might seem harmless, they can trap moisture and accelerate shingle deterioration. Their presence often indicates that your roof is retaining moisture.
• Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls: Water stains are a clear indication of a leak. Even if you don’t see active dripping, stains suggest past water intrusion that may be ongoing.
• Increased Energy Bills: An aging roof can lose its insulation properties, leading to higher energy bills. If you notice a sudden spike in your heating or cooling costs, your roof might be the culprit.

If you notice any of these signs, contact a licensed roofing contractor to assess the condition of your roof right away.

Home safety statistics are often more than just numbers; they tell stories and save lives. An estimated 6,600 fires happen in garages resulting in an average of 400 injuries and over 30 deaths per year. These fires predominantly occur between 4 to 9 PM, and alarmingly, nearly half of them enter homes by breaching living spaces or attics. Fuels, solvents, lithium ion batteries,  combustible products like paint and paper and gasoline-powered equipment including cars and lawn mowers are often the culprits. 
From my experience as a career firefighter and fire investigator, along with my extensive experience as a home inspector, emphasizing the importance of fire separation in garages is paramount.  Stopping fire spread completely may be unavoidable. The main focus here is to slow the spread of fire, giving residents enough time to evacuate. A standard fire separation usually involves installing 1/2” or thicker Type-X drywall that is properly mudded and taped. If a living space rests above the garage, the requirement increases to a 5/8” thick Type-X drywall. Concrete block walls are also effective in slowing down fire spread, provided they are intact and fully extend to the roof.
These fire separation methods serve a dual purpose. They both slow down fires and keep dangerous exhaust fumes, like carbon monoxide, from seeping into living areas. This is why sealing any openings in garage walls and living space ceilings is crucial. Fire-caulking, a high-temperature-rated sealant, is typically used to seal smaller gaps and openings. 
During home inspections it is common to find garage fire separation defects, even in newer homes. Materials like particle board, OSB or plywood for attic access covers in garages are commonly found and are combustible. These materials jeopardize the fire separation system and should be replaced by drywall.  
Pulldown ladders in garages are another common concern. Most of these have a combustible wooden cover and ladder that can compromise fire separation. Furthermore, simply placing a piece of drywall over these wooden covers is insufficient as the unsealed edges still leave room for fire and carbon monoxide to penetrate.  Even small gaps in fire separation can turn a small fire into a total home loss.
furthermore the man door, separating the garage into the home, should either be a solid wooden door with a minimum thickness of 1 3/8 inches or a steel, fire-rated door. Unfortunately, thin or hollow-core wooden doors are more common, offering little resistance to fire. Ensuring the man door is fire-rated is vital for effective fire separation.  Fire rating information can be found on the label on the edge of the door.  If the label is missing, it should be assumed the door is not fire rated.  
 A professional home inspection can effectively identify these commonly overlooked defects. 
In multi-unit residences like townhomes and condos, proper fire-rated walls (firewalls) are essential to prevent fire spread between units. These walls, often made of concrete block or doubled drywall, should run from the basement to the roof.
In summary, proper fire separation in garages is a crucial safety measure. While it may not prevent a fire, it can significantly slow its spread, offering precious time for evacuation and firefighters to arrive on the scene. As home inspectors, our advice is always to prioritize these safety features, regardless of the age or style of your home. In the face of a garage fire, every minute counts, and the right precautions mean the difference between a bad day and a disaster.

 to check fo rfunctinality​GFCI protection also known as a  ground fault circuit interrupter is one of the most common and important electrical safety devices found in homes. GFCI protection can be in the form of a receptacle, or a breaker in your electrical panel.  GFCI’s function by sensing differences in current between the hot and neutral conductors of as little as 5 milliamps and cutting off power to the circuit or receptacle. This is very important as studies have shown that cardiac arrest can occur if contact is made for even a few seconds with as little as 30 milliamps of current.
You may have seen these devices in your electrical panel, bathrooms, kitchen, garage, or basement and any other wet or potentially wet locations. Appliances or devices that are used in these locations have the potential to come into contact with water, and if they do, a ground fault can occur and the GFCI device will detect the interruption in current and trip, shutting off the current to that receptacle or circuit in as little as 1/30th of a second.
Prior to the adoption of GFCI use approximately 800 deaths per year occurred due to accidental electrocution in areas where water was present.
As your home inspector, I will operate ground fault circuit interrupters to check for functionality, and if they’re not present I will make a recommendation that they are installed for the safety of the occupants.
I’m not concerned with when they were required to be installed in certain areas of the home as these requirements were staggered over the span of several years. Further complicating matters is the adoption of codes from municipality to municipality or state to state. For example bathrooms were required to have GFCI protection starting in 1978, but the municipality or State may not have required it until 1979 or later. I inspect homes and make recommendations by today’s standards as codes are added, updated, or changed for the safety of the occupants of a home, and that’s why you will always see a recommendation for their installation from me, even if they were not required when the home was constructed.
Your real estate contract may have a clause stating that the seller is not required to bring the home up to modern code standards, and if that’s the case I recommend hiring an electrician to install GFCI protection at all recommended locations, as it is typically a relatively inexpensive upgrade.

​THE IMPORTANCE OF ROUTINE HOME INSPECTIONS
 
As your body ages, regular doctor’s appointments keep your health in check –– ensuring ailments are caught early and can be treated. Homes operate similarly to our bodies, undergoing wear and tear as our families grow within them.
Routine home inspections are a “VITAL” (see what I did there?) part of responsible homeownership. They involve a thorough assessment of your property's condition, ensuring that the space remains a safe and valuable place for you and your family. This article delves into the significance of routine home inspections, what they encompass, how often you should schedule them, and essential tips to make the most of these inspections. By the end, you'll understand why prioritizing regular home inspections is crucial for not only the health and well-being of your family, but also for maintaining your home and investment.
The Purpose of an Annual Home Inspection

A home inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of your property's physical condition, systems, and components. It's like a health check-up for your home, aiming to identify any potential issues or hazards. Getting frequent home inspections can contribute to significant cost savings –– Americans spend an average of $6,000 or more on emergency repairs and maintenance.
Home inspection services are just as essential for homeowners as they are for home buyers.

• Safety Assurance: Routine home inspections ensure that your home remains a safe living environment for your family by uncovering hidden hazards.
• Early Detection: Detecting small issues before they become big problems can save you from costly repairs down the road. Routine inspections help identify and address problems before they get worse and more expensive.
• Home Value Preservation: Regular inspections and maintenance can help maintain and could even increase your home's value over time.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is in good shape offers peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your space without worrying about unexpected problems.

Importance of Routine Home Inspections
At Vital Property Inspections, our annual Home Maintenance Inspections provide a detailed and comprehensive report to homeowners on key systems like roof and exterior, plumbing and HVAC, structural and electrical.  We put safety first to help protect you and your family from hazards that may go unnoticed to an untrained eye.
Here are some of the most important reasons why a routine home inspection is necessary:
1. Identifying Safety Concerns
We check for safety concerns like fire, electrical, trip and fall hazards, addressing these issues can help enhance your family's safety and comfort.
2. Protecting Your Investment
Regular inspections help preserve and increase the value of your property. Early problem detection and timely maintenance can reduce the risk of serious damage and prevent major expenses, ultimately saving you money.
3. Building a Maintenance Plan
We provide valuable, unbiased advice on maintenance tasks and improvements that can enhance your home's safety and longevity.
4. Building Peace of Mind
Knowing that your home is in good condition and free from hidden issues provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your living space without worrying about unexpected problems lurking in the background.
 
 
 
 
 
 
What Should Be Included in a Routine Home Inspection
 
1. Comprehensive Assessment of Structural Elements
A routine home inspection should include a thorough evaluation of your property's structural components, including the foundation, walls, roof, and load-bearing elements. Any issues in these areas can have serious consequences if left unaddressed.
2. Evaluation of Electrical Systems
We assess the electrical wiring, outlets, panels, as well as safety measures to ensure your home meets electrical safety standards. This can help prevent electrical hazards and fires.
3. Examination of Plumbing and HVAC Systems
Plumbing and HVAC systems play a crucial role in your home's comfort. We can identify leaks, inefficiencies, and safety concerns, ensuring these systems function optimally.
4. Inspection of Unseen Areas Like Roof and Attic
Areas of our homes, such as the roof, attic, basement, and crawlspace, often get overlooked.  They can be difficult to access and or not frequently visited. A proper inspection of these areas is essential to detect leaks, mold growth, or structural damage. This can help prevent interior damage and costly repairs.
5. Visual Assessment of Exterior and Interior Components
We assess the condition of exterior elements including the siding, windows, doors, roofs and chimneys, as well as interior components including walls, ceilings, floors, and appliances. This evaluation helps ensure your home remains safe and functional.
The Home Inspection Routine
The frequency of routine home inspections can vary depending on several factors, including the age and condition of your home. Generally, we advise having an inspection:

• Annually: For all homes in our region due to extreme weather conditions and changes.
• Before Selling or Buying: If you're considering selling or purchasing a property can save a lot of time and headaches during the transaction.

 
DIY vs. Professional Inspections
While some homeowners may opt for DIY inspections, having your home inspected by a professional offers several advantages. Most importantly, it can be difficult to take an objective approach to inspecting your home, so having an outside perspective can provide you with valuable insights.

• Expertise: We are trained to identify issues that homeowners might overlook.
• Objectivity: We provide an unbiased assessment, essential for homeowners who have lived in their home comfortably for many years.
• Comprehensive Reports: We deliver detailed reports outlining our findings and recommendations.

Routine Home Inspection Checklist
Following a routine home inspection checklist can help ensure a systematic and thorough assessment of your property. When considering who to hire as a home inspector, here are 10 key items you should ensure they include:

1. Exterior: Do they check for cracks, damage, or wear on the siding, foundation, and roof? We do!
2. Interior: Do they inspect walls, ceilings, floors, and windows for signs of damage or wear? We do!
3. Electrical Systems: Do they test outlets, switches, and the circuit breaker panel for proper functioning? We do!
4. Plumbing: Do they look for leaks, dripping faucets, and water pressure issues? We do!
5. HVAC Systems: Do they check the heating and cooling systems, including filters and ductwork along with thermal imaging? We do!
6. Roof and Attic: Do they inspect the roof for damaged shingles and examine the attic for signs of leaks, pests, and insulation problems? We do!
7. Appliances: Do they ensure all appliances are in working order? We do!
8. Safety Features: Do they test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors? We do!
9. Pests: Do they look for evidence of pest burrowing that could threaten home infrastructure and stability? We do!
10. Environmental Hazards: Can they test for radon?  We do!

 
Routine Home Inspection Tips
To make the most of routine home inspections, here are some helpful tips:

• Plan Ahead: Schedule inspections well in advance to ensure availability and adequate preparation.
• Attend the Inspection: If possible, be present during the inspection to ask questions and gain a better understanding of your home's condition.
• Maintain Records: Keep a record of past inspections, repairs, and maintenance tasks for reference.
• Follow Up: After receiving the inspection report, promptly address any issues identified to prevent further damage.
• Budget Wisely: Set aside funds for the annual inspection, potential repairs, or upgrades that may arise from the inspection findings.
• Regular Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance tasks between inspections to prevent issues from worsening, such as having your HVAC unit serviced annually.
• Consult Professionals: If major issues are discovered, consult with qualified and licensed professionals for repairs or renovations.

Routine home inspections are not just formalities; they are “VITAL” (did it again!) aspects of responsible homeownership. Prioritizing regular inspections ensures the safety of your home and family while preserving and possibly increasing property value. By following a routine home inspection checklist and adhering to this recommended guide, you can enjoy peace of mind and a comfortable living space. Remember that professional inspections offer expertise and objectivity that DIY inspections may lack, making them an invaluable investment in your home's well-being. By taking these steps, you are not only safeguarding your investment, but also creating a healthier and safer environment for your loved ones. With Vital Property Inspections on your side, you too can proactively protect your home, your health, and your future.

​WHAT IS RADON?
 
If you are buying or selling a home or you’ve never had your home tested for radon, getting a professional Radon Test can protect you and your family from serious health issues. Radon is a naturally occurring, radioactive gas, and because of its nature, it’s in virtually every home in the U.S. and nearly impossible to detect without the proper equipment.
While most homes in the U.S. have some level of radon, nearly 1 in every 15 homes, that’s at least one per neighborhood on average, have higher than EPA recommended “safe” levels of radon. Prolonged exposure can have serious health effects including asthma, increased respiratory infections, and even lung cancer.
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers, and the second leading cause of all lung cancers cases. Unfortunately, radon is not predictable, but it is preventable! The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends you test your home for radon at least once every two years.
Just because your home was safe from radon in the past, doesn’t mean it’s safe from radon now. Changing temperatures, climate, and weather can affect radon levels in the home.
In this article, we’ll talk all about radon, including what it is, what to expect with a Radon Test, and how to reduce high levels of this hazardous gas. Let’s dive in!
What is Radon?
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas formed by the decay of uranium in soil and rock beneath our homes. Radon typically enters the home by seeping through cracks in your floor, foundation and building materials, like wood and sheetrock. Over time, radon gas can build up, leading to poor indoor air quality and health issues for you and your loved ones.
When to Conduct a Radon Test
All homeowners should test their homes for radon. Radon has been found in all 50 states and in all types of houses, so it is impossible to predict which homes are safe without conducting a proper test. Radon levels can also change over time, making frequent testing important. Homeowners should strongly consider testing their homes for radon if they haven’t in over two years, if anyone in the household is experiencing unexplained respiratory issues, or if there have been significant changes in the soil, weather, or landscape.
Home sellers should also test their home for radon when preparing to sell. This helps home sellers take proactive steps to mitigate radon and avoid unexpected delays during the home selling process. Likewise, home buyers should add a professional radon test as part of their home inspection. If the test results show elevated levels of radon, you as the buyer could have options to negotiate for radon mitigation or ask the seller to adjust the sales price to cover mitigation costs before closing the deal on your new home.
As a professional home inspector, I’ve conducted many Radon Tests over the years, and I’ve seen high radon levels found in homes of all shapes, sizes, and ages. From 100-year-old Victorian homes to brand new construction homes, radon is prevalent. I urge every home buyer and homeowner to have their home tested for radon if they haven’t done so already.
What Homes Are at a Higher Risk for Radon?
While every homeowner should test their home for radon, here are a few factors that may indicate higher risk:

• Location: Some regions are known to have higher radon levels than others. Here in the Midwest, we have higher levels, while the Southeast has lower levels. Keep in mind that low risk areas do not guarantee that your house is safe from potentially elevated radon levels.
• Foundation Type: Older homes with dirt floors in the basement have nothing to slow the rise of radon gas from the soil. Exposed crawl spaces also allow radon to rise into living areas.
• Foundation Damage: Radon can seep through concrete, but foundation slabs and walls with cracks make it easier for radon gas to seep in at a faster rate.
• Other Construction Gaps: Any gap in the structure can allow radon to enter the home. Common examples are gaps around pipes and wires, construction joints where walls and floors meet, and open sump pump pits.
• Well Water: Groundwater can also contain radon. If you rely on a well, you should have your water quality tested regularly for contaminants, including radon.

How to Test Your Home for Radon
To get the most accurate results and gain peace of mind, have your home tested by a professional. A qualified inspector knows exactly where to place the radon device to get the best results and follow compliance. They can also inspect your home to help identify areas where radon could be seeping in.
Short-term Radon Test Kit
While we recommend hiring a professional to conduct your Radon Test, you can buy a Short-Term DIY Radon Test kit at a local hardware store or home improvement center. While these home radon test kits may seem like a more cost-effective option, they are not as accurate as radon tests conducted by professionals. Not only is professional testing equipment better, but placing the equipment in the home appropriately is essential. Each home is uniquely designed, and local and state regulations have set standards on how to effectively place the equipment to ensure accurate results. When conducting a DIY test, you run the risk of a faulty test, not having assistance reading the results or determining next steps for mitigation.
Continuous Radon Tests
Continuous radon tests are conducted using monitors that run continuously to measure the concentration of radon over an extended period, typically in real estate transactions, 48 hours. Professional inspectors will place the device(s) in the home strategically to capture accurate results. The device will monitor radon levels in the home over two days, attempting to reduce or eliminate interference or “measurement noise” that can result in false results. After two days, the device is collected, and a report is drawn up with the results. It’s important that during these two days, the monitor is not touched or tampered with.
 
 
 
Long-Term Radon Tests
Long-term tests tend to be more accurate than short-term ones because they use alpha particle tracking to determine radon levels. These tests collect radon gas for three months to a year. This test is mostly recommended for homes located in high-risk regions.
A professional continuous radon test offers the benefits of quick results while still providing a high degree of accuracy. This test is a great option for homeowners, buyers and sellers concerned about the radon levels in their home and want to avoid potential long-term exposure.
Understanding Your Radon Test Results
Radon is measured in picoCuries per liter (pCi/L). Though no level of radon is considered safe, the EPA has established guidelines for acceptable levels. If your test results show radon levels at

• 4 pCi/L or higher, you should take radon mitigation measures to reduce the amount of gas in your home and lower your risk for radon-related lung cancer.
• Between 2 and 4 pCi/L, action may not be immediately necessary, but you should still consider taking some precautionary steps to lower the radon levels.

It’s important to take your radon results seriously. While getting test results showing high levels of radon can seem scary, I assure you that it can be easily mitigated. You can have a radon mitigation system installed, which will help reduce the amount of radon in your home. You can also help prevent radon from entering your home by sealing cracks and gaps in the foundation. Finally, test for radon often to ensure your home remains safe for your  you and your family.
Radon Mitigation
If radon is identified in your home, you should take immediate steps to reduce radon levels. On average, radon mitigation costs can range between $1,000 and $1,500, depending on your home’s floorplan, size, foundation type, construction quality, and location. A radon mitigation system is the best way to reduce radon levels in your home. It uses a series of pipes and a fan to remove the gas from beneath the foundation before it can enter your home.
How to Reduce Radon and When to Take Action
If your home has radon levels above 4 pCi/L, you should take action for mitigation. Here’s a few steps you can take to mitigate and reduce radon levels in your home:

• Seal cracks in walls and floors using plaster or caulk.
• Install a radon mitigation system.
• Increase air flow by opening windows and using fans to help circulate the air.
• Install a water filtration system that removes radon from water.

Use radon-resistant construction materials when completing a home renovation project.
 
Radon Risk Factors and Health Issues

Radon is a known carcinogen that can cause cancer with prolonged exposure. In fact, the EPA has found that radon causes between 15,000 and 22,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the U.S. Moreover, radon is present in roughly 20%-30% of asthma cases triggered by environmental factors at home.
Because it can take years for radon symptoms to show, detecting radon early can protect you and your family from developing devastating health issues in the future.
Radon is a serious issue in many homes and can lead to major health problems. If you are unsure about the radon levels in your home, getting a Radon Test by a professional can help protect you and your family from its deadly consequences.
At Vital Property Inspections, we’re here to not only help you protect your most valuable investment, but the well-being of you and your family. I’ve heard almost every excuse in the book about why someone doesn’t want to get a Radon Test – it’s expensive, it’s inconvenient, my home’s fine, it was tested years ago when we bought it, our realtor said we don’t have time to…. - but I’m here to tell you that knowledge is power and knowing if your home has radon is worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does radon come from?
Radon is naturally occurring and releases as a gas when the uranium in soil and rock decays.
 
 
Should I buy a house with a radon mitigation system?
A radon mitigation system is an effective way to immediately reduce and keep radon levels at bay. If a home already has a radon mitigation system installed, it could mean that the home has previously had a high level of radon or is in an area where radon is more concentrated. Either way, having this system installed is a great way to protect you and your family against future radon exposure.
How can I get rid of radon?
To get rid of radon, you should seal cracks and gaps with caulk, ventilate the home, and install a radon mitigation system.
How much is a radon mitigation system?
On average, radon mitigation systems can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $1,500, but it depends on the home’s floor plan, size, and other factors.
What are considered safe radon levels?
While all levels of radon pose a risk, action should be taken if levels read are higher than 4 pCi/L.
How long does a Radon Test take?
The time it takes to complete a Radon Test depends on the type of equipment used and the size of the house, however, the most popular Radon Test uses a continuous radon monitor, which runs for 48 hours.
How can radon exposure affect children’s health?
Exposure to radon can significantly harm children’s lung health, as they are more sensitive, causing developmental issues, asthma, and respiratory infections.
Is radon testing necessary?
Yes. If your home has never been tested for radon, any members of your family are experiencing unexplained respiratory issues, or conditions related to the soil or climate have changed significantly, you should have your home tested for radon right away.
How much does a Radon Test cost?
The cost of a Radon Test varies by location, the type of test you need, and the size of your home, among other factors, but typically ranges between $150-$300 on average.
How accurate are two-day Radon Tests?
Two-day Radon Tests are reliable and give accurate radon level readings as long as the device was not tampered with and the house remained closed.
How often should you test for radon?
You should get a radon test at least once every two years, as recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Should I get a Radon Test with a home inspection?
To help detect radon early and protect you and your future investment, it’s highly recommended to get a Radon Test with your home inspection, especially if you are moving to an area of the U.S. where radon levels are naturally higher.
How does a Radon Test work?
The most common Radon Test uses a continuous radon monitor that is strategically placed in the home and runs for 48 hours, continuously collecting air samples. After the two-day monitoring period, the results are ready, and the inspector will come back to collect the device and share information with you about your home’s radon levels as well as recommendations for mitigation, if needed.
What can cause a false positive Radon Test?
Radon Tests are rarely inaccurate, unless the device was tampered with, or conditions of the home skewed the results. Open windows, ceiling fans, and exhaust fans can cause readings to be inaccurate, so it’s important for homeowners to follow the instructions left by the inspector.

​GFCI’s & UNGROUNDED OUTLETS
 
Understanding your home’s electrical system is a very important part of homeownership. You need to know if your home is safe from electrical issues, damage, or death from electrocution. One of the many ways to ensure safety is by having GFCI breakers or GFCI receptacles in the home, as this will help protect you from ungrounded outlets. GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. These are specialized outlets that will shut off the flow of electricity when they sense a fault in the electrical ground.
 
The electrical current in your homes wiring system consists of a flow of electrons within metal wires. The current comes in two forms, a negative and a positive charge, and this charged electrical field is created by huge generators operated by the utility company, sometimes many hundreds of miles away. It is this polarized charge that effectively constitutes the flow of electrical current, and it arrives at your home through a vast network of high-tension service wires, substations, and transformers that blanket the landscape.
 
The physics of electrical flow is more complicated than most simple explanations can convey, but essentially, electricity seeks to return its electrons to "ground"—that is, to discharge its negative energy and return to equilibrium. Normally, the current returns to ground through the neutral wires in the electrical system. But should some breakdown of the pathway occur, the hot current may instead flow through other materials, metal pipes, or flammable materials in your home, or more importantly, you.  This is what may happen in an electrical short, where most electrical fires and shocks originate.  An electrical short is when electricity strays outside the wires that it is supposed to flow through—in other words, when it takes a shorter path, like through your body, to ground.
What is Grounding and Why Is it Important?
Grounding is essentially a system of bare copper wires that run parallel to the hot and neutral wires. It provides an alternate pathway for electrical current to follow should there be a breakdown in the system’s hot and neutral wires that normally carry the current. If a wire connection becomes loose, for example, or a rodent damages a wire, the grounding system channels the stray current back to ground by this alternate pathway before it can cause a fire or shock electrocution.
GFCI’s and Protecting Ungrounded Outlets
When a ground fault occurs, the GFCI senses a difference in incoming and outgoing current and quickly shuts off the power.  These are safety devices built into certain outlets to protect against electrical shock. Making sure that every outlet is grounded by a ground wire is important, however, some older homes may have an older electrical system that doesn’t include grounding wires.  This is where a GFCI can help. GFCI outlets can protect other outlets downstream that are on the same circuit. This includes any tools or appliances that are plugged into the GFCI outlets.
Ground faults can occur by:

• Using damaged cords or wiring
• Using equipment in wet areas 
• Plugging in faulty tools and appliances

                                                          
Will A GFCI Breaker Protect Ungrounded Outlets?
A GFCI protected outlet or breaker can detect when more current is coming into the outlet on the hot wire than is exiting on the neutral wire. This shuts off the circuit quickly before the current can stray and cause shock or electrocution.
The GFCI protected outlet or breaker does not create a path to the ground like modern day wiring. Only a connected ground wire can re-route the electrical current to the ground and save you from electrocution. GFCI protected outlets simply cut the electrical supply when needed, making the un-grounded outlet safer in a ground fault situation.
Bootleg Ground – What Not to Do
Even though it may be tempting, and someone who is not a professional may tell you it is okay, you want to stay away from bootleg grounding. This is where a jumper wire is installed on a receptacle, in between the neutral wire to the ground screw. The purpose is for the receptacle to look grounded but it doesn’t work and is illegal.

 Recommended Maintenance
GFCI’s should be routinely tested by pushing the test button and then resetting the receptacle.  It is not uncommon to find a GFCI that will not reset after being tripped. This could indicate a faulty receptacle and replacement should be performed by a licensed electrician.  
When Do I Call A Professional?
Electrical fires are very dangerous and can destroy homes and life.  If you have an old outdated electrical system or notice outlets that only have 2 slots you may have an ungrounded electrical system.  It is in your best interest to contact a licensed electrician for further evaluation and an estimate on an electrical system upgrade.
Conclusion
Many people fail to inspect the outlets in their homes as most people are unaware this is needed.  Outlets could become exposed to harsh temperatures or dampness or physical damage.  In addition, adding appliances like a refrigerator or microwave onto ungrounded circuits is dangerous for everyone in the home. Safety should be the priority here. Having your home inspected once a year is a great idea.   Often issues like these can be caught before they became major issues.