Spring Home Maintenance: What a Home Inspector Looks for After a Long Chicago Winter

Spring in Chicago means more than sunshine and blooming tulips—it’s the ideal time to take stock of your home after months of freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. Winter can be tough on buildings, and small issues left unchecked can turn into big problems when the warmer weather rolls in.

At First Choice Inspectors, we perform detailed home inspections year-round, and spring is one of the most important times to look things over. With tools like infrared thermography and certified mold inspection, we spot trouble before it causes damage—but here’s a breakdown of the key areas we (and you!) should check each spring:

Wooden white house toy and construction tools on Gray-black cement floor background with copy space.Real estate concept, New house.Home repair concept

1. Roof & Drainage Systems

Snow and ice buildup often damages roofing materials without immediate signs. We look for:

  • Loose or missing shingles
  • Signs of water penetration in the attic
  • Clogged or damaged gutters and downspouts

These issues can quietly cause leaks and even foundation problems if left unresolved.

2. Hidden Moisture Intrusion

Water has a sneaky way of finding its way into cracks and gaps during the thaw. Our thermographic tools help detect:

  • Moisture trapped inside walls
  • Damp insulation
  • Mold-prone areas behind surfaces

You may not see a water stain yet—but we might find the cause before it appears.

3. Exterior Cracks & Foundation Wear

The freeze-thaw cycle can expand minor cracks in your foundation or siding. We examine:

  • Foundation walls for movement or damage
  • Exterior siding and caulking for gaps
  • Brickwork and masonry for signs of deterioration

These small flaws can quickly turn into expensive repairs if not caught early.

4. HVAC & Ventilation Check

Before Chicago’s summer heat kicks in, it’s smart to check your A/C system. An inspection includes:

  • Testing the system’s performance
  • Checking ducts and vents for leaks or blockages
  • Replacing or cleaning filters

Efficient systems keep your home comfortable and help avoid costly breakdowns.

5. Windows & Doors

Winter may have warped or weakened your seals. We inspect:

  • Window frames and sills for leaks or damage
  • Drafts and air leakage around doors
  • Evidence of condensation or failing window seals

These areas are a major source of energy loss—and a common mold risk too.

6. Mold Hotspots

Spring’s humidity boost, combined with winter moisture, creates the perfect mold environment. We check:

  • Basements and crawlspaces
  • Under sinks and around plumbing
  • Bathrooms and laundry rooms

Our certified mold inspectors know exactly what to look for—and where to look.

What You’ll Get from a First Choice Spring Inspection

After every inspection, you’ll receive a clear, organized report created with Home Gauge software, outlining any concerns, suggested fixes, and proactive tips to keep your home in great shape.

Want peace of mind this spring? Let our professional team help you catch problems early and protect your investment. Contact First Choice Inspectors at 773-429-9711 today or visit us online for more information!

Sell Your Home Faster with a Pre-Listing Inspection

Selling a home can be an exciting yet stressful process. One of the biggest challenges sellers face is unexpected surprises that arise during the buyer’s home inspection—leading to delays, price negotiations, or even deals falling through. The good news? A pre-listing inspection can help you avoid these pitfalls and sell your home faster and with fewer complications.

Home inspector working at a home

What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection?

A pre-listing inspection is a professional home inspection that takes place before you put your home on the market. It’s the same type of inspection a buyer would conduct, but it allows you—the seller—to identify and address potential issues ahead of time.

Why a Pre-Listing Inspection Can Speed Up Your Sale

  1. Reduces the Risk of Last-Minute Deal Breakers

When buyers order an inspection and discover problems like roof leaks, outdated wiring, or foundation concerns, it can lead to stressful renegotiations. Some buyers may demand expensive repairs, while others may walk away altogether.

By conducting an inspection before listing, you can uncover these potential deal-breakers early and fix them on your terms—ensuring that buyers don’t have reasons to delay or back out.

  1. Creates Transparency and Buyer Confidence

A pre-listing inspection demonstrates that you have nothing to hide. Providing buyers with a professional inspection report upfront reassures them that your home is in good shape.

Buyers appreciate transparency, and when they see that a home has been thoroughly inspected and well-maintained, they’re more likely to make a confident, competitive offer—without hesitation.

  1. Gives You Control Over Repairs and Costs

If a buyer’s inspection uncovers unexpected issues, you’ll be pressured to either lower your price or rush repairs at the last minute. This often means paying a premium for quick fixes or agreeing to the buyer’s contractor.

With a pre-listing inspection, you can:

  • Choose cost-effective solutions rather than overpaying for emergency repairs.
  • Handle repairs before listing, so they don’t become a point of negotiation.
  • Disclose minor issues upfront instead of allowing them to cause complications later.

This allows you to maintain control over the sale process and avoid unnecessary delays.

  1. Helps You Set a Competitive and Realistic Price

Pricing your home correctly is key to selling it quickly. A pre-listing inspection gives you a clear picture of your home’s condition, allowing you to price it accurately.

If significant repairs are needed, you can adjust the price accordingly or fix the issues beforehand to justify a higher asking price. This ensures your home is positioned competitively in the market, attracting more buyers from the start.

  1. Makes the Closing Process Smoother and Faster

The period between accepting an offer and closing the sale is critical. A buyer’s inspection can delay closing if new issues arise, leading to re-negotiations, repair requests, or extended contract timelines.

By providing an inspection report upfront, you reduce the chances of unexpected delays. Buyers already know what they’re getting, making the process quicker, simpler, and more efficient.

  1. Reduces Stress and Gives You Peace of Mind

Selling a home is stressful enough without the added uncertainty of what an inspection might reveal. A pre-listing inspection gives you a clear understanding of your home’s condition so you can proceed with confidence.

Instead of worrying about surprises, you’ll be able to market your home as move-in ready—making it more attractive to buyers who want a smooth, hassle-free transaction.

Is a Pre-Listing Inspection Right for You?

If you’re serious about selling your home quickly and without unexpected roadblocks, a pre-listing inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make. It helps you avoid surprises, speed up the selling process, and attract confident buyers who are ready to close.

At First Choice Inspectors, we provide comprehensive pre-listing home inspections in Chicago, helping sellers prepare their homes for a smooth and successful sale.

Ready to take control of your home sale? Schedule your pre-listing inspection today!

How Home Inspections Can Help Improve Indoor Air Quality

Most homeowners worry about visible problems like leaks, cracks, or outdated wiring. However, indoor air quality (IAQ) is an equally critical factor affecting the health and comfort of your home. Poor air quality can lead to allergies, respiratory problems, and even long-term health risks. The good news? A professional home inspection can uncover hidden air quality issues, allowing you to take proactive steps before they become major concerns.

Ceiling air conditioner in modern office or at home with green ficus plant leaves an idea of clean air. Indoor air quality concept

Why Indoor Air Quality Is a Big Deal

The air inside your home can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. Poor IAQ can cause symptoms like:

  • Frequent headaches or dizziness
  • Allergies, coughing, and congestion
  • Worsening asthma or respiratory conditions
  • Fatigue and trouble concentrating

Many of these issues stem from pollutants like mold, radon, asbestos, and carbon monoxide—problems that can go unnoticed without a professional inspection.

How a Home Inspection Can Identify Air Quality Risks

A thorough home inspection from First Choice Inspectors assesses multiple factors that affect indoor air quality. Here’s how we help:

1. Detecting Hidden Mold & Mildew

Mold thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Not only can mold damage your home’s structure, but its spores can also trigger allergies and respiratory issues. A home inspector checks for moisture problems, leaks, and signs of mold growth so you can take action early.

2. Testing for Radon Gas

Radon is a silent and invisible threat that seeps into homes through cracks in the foundation. It’s a leading cause of lung cancer, yet most homeowners don’t test for it. A radon inspection ensures your home is safe, and if levels are high, mitigation solutions can be installed.

3. Checking for Asbestos & Lead Hazards

Older homes may contain asbestos in insulation, ceiling tiles, and flooring, which can become airborne if disturbed. Lead-based paint (common in homes built before 1978) can also pose health risks if it deteriorates. A professional inspection can determine whether these materials are present and if removal or containment is needed.

4. Evaluating Ventilation & Carbon Monoxide Risks

Good ventilation is essential for clean air. A home inspection will assess HVAC systems, exhaust vents, and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure your home isn’t accumulating harmful gases or pollutants.

5. Assessing HVAC System Performance

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays a key role in air quality. If it’s clogged with dust, mold, or debris, it can circulate allergens and contaminants throughout your home. An inspection will determine if maintenance or filter replacements are needed to improve airflow.

Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality After an Inspection

Once your home has been inspected, you can take steps to enhance air quality:

  • Repair leaks & improve ventilation to reduce moisture buildup
  • Install a radon mitigation system if high levels are found
  • Replace HVAC filters regularly for cleaner air circulation
  • Use air purifiers & houseplants to help remove toxins
  • Choose low-VOC paints & eco-friendly cleaners to limit chemical exposure

Schedule a Home Inspection to Ensure Clean, Safe Air

Indoor air quality is a critical part of a healthy home, and a professional inspection can help identify and address hidden dangers before they become serious issues.

At First Choice Inspectors, we provide comprehensive home inspections in Chicago, including mold, radon, asbestos, and ventilation checks to ensure a safer, healthier living space.

Call us today at 773-429-9711 or visit FirstChoiceInspectors.com to schedule your inspection!

 

How Chicago Homeowners Can Detect Mold Before It Becomes a Problem

Mold is more than just an unsightly issue; it can damage your home and impact your health. With Chicago’s fluctuating weather and humidity levels, mold is a concern every homeowner should be prepared for. Catching mold early is key to minimizing its impact. Here’s how you can stay ahead of potential mold problems.

Mold around the plastic window due to high moisture

Recognizing Mold Hotspots in Your Home

Mold thrives in environments that are damp, dark, and poorly ventilated. Be proactive by regularly checking these common areas:

  • Basements: Look for moisture from leaks or condensation on walls and floors.
  • Bathrooms: Keep an eye on grout lines, shower curtains, and corners prone to dampness.
  • Kitchens: Check under sinks and around appliances for hidden leaks.
  • Windowsills: Watch for condensation buildup that can lead to mold.
  • Attics: Ensure proper ventilation and inspect for roof leaks that might foster mold.

Spotting Visible Mold Growth

Mold often reveals itself through visual clues. Be on the lookout for:

  • Color Changes: Mold can appear in shades of black, green, white, or gray.
  • Surface Textures: Fuzzy, slimy, or powdery patches may indicate mold.
  • Persistent Stains: Water stains on walls or ceilings might signal underlying mold growth.

Using Your Nose: Musty Odors as a Warning Sign

A persistent, musty smell is often the first indicator of hidden mold. If you detect these odors in specific areas, such as basements, attics, or near HVAC vents, further investigation is necessary.

Controlling Humidity Levels

High humidity creates the perfect conditions for mold to thrive. Use a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity and aim for a range between 30% and 50%. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and bathrooms, and ensure proper ventilation.

Identifying and Fixing Water Issues

Water leaks are a leading cause of mold. Inspect your home regularly for:

  • Dripping Faucets or Pipes: Even small leaks can create a mold problem.
  • Roof Damage: Missing shingles or poorly sealed areas can let water in.
  • Condensation: Check windows, pipes, and HVAC systems for moisture buildup.

Address any water issues promptly to prevent mold from taking hold.

Checking Your HVAC System

Your home’s heating and cooling systems can harbor mold if not properly maintained. Regularly:

  • Inspect Ducts: Look for visible mold or musty smells.
  • Clean or Replace Filters: Dirty filters can trap moisture and encourage mold.
  • Ensure Proper Drainage: Check drip pans for standing water.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Regular upkeep can go a long way in preventing mold:

  • Clean Your Gutters: Prevent water from pooling near your home’s foundation.
  • Seal Cracks and Openings: Keep moisture out with properly sealed windows and doors.
  • Ventilate Your Home: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce humidity levels.

Call in the Professionals

If you suspect mold but can’t find it, or if the affected area seems extensive, it’s time to bring in experts. First Choice Inspectors use advanced tools like thermography to locate hidden mold and provide a detailed report with recommendations for remediation.

Mold is a problem that’s easier to prevent than to fix. By staying vigilant and addressing issues early, you can keep your Chicago home safe and healthy. Contact First Choice Inspectors today at 773-429-9711 for a comprehensive mold inspection and expert advice on maintaining a mold-free home.

Mold Prevention Tips: How to Keep Your Home Safe and Healthy

Mold is not just a nuisance; it can pose serious health risks and lead to costly damage if not managed properly. Especially in a climate like Chicago’s, where humidity and temperature fluctuations are common, mold prevention is crucial. Luckily, a few simple strategies can keep your home mold-free and ensure a healthy environment for you and your family.

white wall smeared by black mold. and fungus

What Mold Needs to Thrive

Mold grows where moisture, warmth, and organic materials meet. Bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and poorly ventilated areas are common hotspots. Preventing mold is about cutting off its lifeline: moisture. Here’s how to tackle it.

1. Reduce Moisture in the Air

Controlling humidity is your first line of defense against mold:

  • Install dehumidifiers: Ideal for damp areas like basements or bathrooms.
  • Ventilate properly: Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove steam and moisture.
  • Check humidity levels: A hygrometer can help you keep humidity below 50%, the threshold where mold struggles to grow.

2. Fix Water Leaks Quickly

Leaks might seem minor at first, but even small amounts of water can lead to mold:

  • Inspect plumbing regularly: Check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and near water heaters.
  • Examine your roof and windows: Address any cracks or gaps that could let water seep in.
  • Check your basement and foundation: Look for signs of water intrusion and waterproof if necessary.

3. Keep Surfaces Clean and Dry

Damp surfaces provide the perfect environment for mold to grow. Stay vigilant by:

  • Drying spills immediately: Whether it’s water on the floor or condensation on windows, wipe it up as soon as possible.
  • Tending to wet clothes and towels: Don’t let damp fabrics linger in the washer or laundry basket.
  • Using shower squeegees: Remove water from tiles and glass after each shower to minimize moisture buildup.

4. Improve Air Circulation

Proper airflow helps prevent mold from settling into your home:

  • Use fans strategically: Ceiling fans and portable fans can keep air moving in areas prone to dampness.
  • Rearrange furniture: Avoid placing large furniture pieces flush against walls to improve ventilation.
  • Open windows when possible: Fresh air reduces indoor humidity and prevents stagnant air pockets.

5. Choose Mold-Resistant Materials

If you’re renovating or building, invest in materials that resist mold:

  • Mold-resistant drywall and insulation: These products are designed specifically for high-moisture areas.
  • Paint with mold inhibitors: Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
  • Hard flooring options: Consider tile or vinyl in moisture-prone areas instead of carpets, which retain water.

6. Regularly Inspect Vulnerable Areas

Certain parts of your home are more likely to attract mold. Pay close attention to:

  • Bathrooms and kitchens: Clean and dry these areas often, especially around sinks, tubs, and showers.
  • Basements and attics: Look for leaks, dampness, or discoloration on walls and ceilings.
  • HVAC systems: Mold can grow inside air ducts, so schedule regular maintenance and replace filters often.

7. Maintain Your HVAC System

Your heating and cooling system plays a vital role in keeping mold at bay:

  • Replace air filters: Use high-quality filters and change them regularly to reduce airborne mold spores.
  • Clean air ducts: Professional air duct cleaning can eliminate mold lurking in your ventilation system.
  • Ensure proper drainage: Make sure the HVAC unit’s drainage system is functioning correctly to avoid water buildup.
  1. Act on Warning Signs

Don’t ignore signs of mold, which may include:

  • Musty smells: Persistent odors often signal hidden mold.
  • Visible growth: Discoloration on walls, ceilings, or fabrics can indicate an infestation.
  • Health symptoms: If you or your family experience unexplained respiratory issues, it’s time to investigate.

9. Get Professional Help

Sometimes, even the most diligent efforts can miss hidden mold. That’s where professional inspections come in. First Choice Inspectors offers certified mold inspections and uses thermography to detect moisture issues that may lead to mold. Early detection prevents small problems from turning into major repairs.

Preventing mold requires consistent effort, but the results are worth it: a healthier home and peace of mind. By keeping humidity under control, maintaining proper ventilation, and acting on potential risks, you can protect your home and your family from the dangers of mold.

If you’re concerned about mold or want a professional inspection, contact First Choice Inspectors today. Call us at 773-429-9711 or email office@firstchoiceinspectors.com to schedule your appointment. Let’s work together to keep your home safe and mold-free!

Energy Audits for Chicago Homes: Save Money and Improve Comfort

Living in Chicago means braving extreme temperatures, from frigid winters to scorching summers. These seasonal swings can take a toll on your home—and your wallet—if your energy systems aren’t operating efficiently. Fortunately, a professional energy audit can uncover ways to improve your home’s energy performance, reduce costs, and keep your living space comfortable year-round.

Tablet screen displaying a home energy efficiency concept

What Is an Energy Audit?

An energy audit is a detailed evaluation of your home’s energy use. It identifies inefficiencies such as air leaks, poor insulation, or outdated appliances that could be driving up your energy bills. The audit also provides solutions tailored to your home, helping you make smarter decisions about where to invest in upgrades.

Why Every Chicago Home Needs an Energy Audit

  • Save on Energy Bills – An energy audit pinpoints areas of waste, like air escaping through drafty windows or energy-hogging appliances. Fixing these issues can lead to immediate savings on utility bills, often recouping the cost of upgrades within a few months or years.
  • Maximize Comfort – An energy audit ensures your home is consistently comfortable by addressing problems such as uneven heating or cooling, insufficient insulation, and inadequate ventilation. These improvements not only make your home more enjoyable but also reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system.
  • Boost Home Value – If you’re planning to sell, showcasing recent energy upgrades can make your property stand out. Buyers love homes with lower utility costs and modern efficiency features, making an energy audit a wise investment for your home’s future resale value.
  • Protect the Environment – Improving your home’s energy efficiency reduces your carbon footprint, helping you contribute to a healthier planet. Simple changes like switching to LED lighting, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, and sealing air leaks have a big environmental impact—and they’re easy to implement after an energy audit.

How Does an Energy Audit Work?

At First Choice Inspectors, we conduct energy audits with precision and care. We start with a thorough inspection of your home’s energy systems, including HVAC, insulation, and windows. Using thermography and other advanced technologies, we detect hidden issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye. After the audit, you’ll receive a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations, such as sealing leaks, improving insulation, or upgrading appliances.

Don’t let energy inefficiencies drain your wallet or disrupt your comfort. Schedule an energy audit with First Choice Inspectors today. Call us at 773-429-9711 or email office@firstchoiceinspectors.com to get started.

Asbestos Inspections: When and Why They Are Necessary for Older Properties

Once widely used in construction materials for its fire resistance and insulation properties, asbestos was later found to pose serious health risks. Today, asbestos inspections are a crucial step in maintaining the safety and value of older properties, particularly those built before the 1980s.

At First Choice Inspectors, we specialize in detecting asbestos and ensuring that any potential risks are thoroughly addressed. Here’s why asbestos inspections are necessary for older properties and how our team handles asbestos detection with the utmost care and precision.

Asbestos in old home demo

Why Asbestos Is a Concern in Older Properties

Long exposure to asbestos is linked to severe respiratory conditions such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Because asbestos was commonly used in building materials like insulation, floor tiles, roofing shingles, and pipe coatings, properties built before the 1980s are at a higher risk of containing asbestos. The presence of asbestos doesn’t always mean danger—undisturbed asbestos materials generally pose little risk. However, during renovations, repairs, or even regular wear and tear, asbestos fibers can become disturbed, turning a once-safe environment into a potential health hazard.

When Should You Get an Asbestos Inspection?

If your property was constructed before the 1980s, or if you’re unsure of the building’s construction history, an asbestos inspection is a smart safety precaution. Some specific situations where an asbestos inspection is necessary include:

  • Before Renovations or Demolition
  • When Buying or Selling an Older Property
  • If the Building Shows Signs of Wear

How First Choice Inspectors Handle Asbestos Detection

At First Choice Inspectors, our team follows strict safety protocols to ensure thorough and accurate asbestos inspections. We begin with a detailed visual inspection of your property, looking for any materials that may contain asbestos, such as insulation, drywall, floor tiles, and roofing. We provide you with a comprehensive report outlining the location and condition of any asbestos-containing materials. We also include recommendations for managing the asbestos, whether through containment, removal, or encapsulation.

Asbestos may be a hidden danger in older properties, but with professional asbestos inspections from First Choice Inspectors, you can mitigate the risks and ensure a safe environment for all occupants. Our team provides accurate, reliable inspections, keeping your safety as our top priority.

Contact us today at 773-429-9711 or visit us online for more information!

The Importance of Inspecting Your Home for Mold Growth

Health Risks Associated With Household Mold

Mold can grow in your home without you noticing, which is why it can be extremely important for a home inspector like First Choice Inspectors to come out and run a test. If you suspect mold growth in your home, we advise you to have it removed as soon as possible for the safety of you and your family. Mold can grow on walls, in carpeting, inside of insulation and on floors that have been exposed to moisture. A mold colony can start to grow within just days of exposure to moisture, and if you don’t catch it early, it can spread very quickly and can create health risks and problems.

Heath Issues Associated with Mold Growth in the Home

While everyone reacts to mold exposure a little bit differently, most people, at the very least, show some signs of mold-related symptoms when they are exposed to it. These symptoms often include nasal blockage, coughing, itchy eyes, wheezing and irritation to the skin in some cases. But there are also more severe reactions that can affect people with mold allergies and certain lung diseases. These people can end up with severe lung infections if the ongoing mold exposure goes unchecked.

How to Prevent Mold Growth

  • Keep humidity levels as low as possible.
  • Fix leaky plumbing fixtures.
  • Clean-up after a flood
  • Keep an eye out for moisture on windowsills.
  • Regularly check attic and basement for any signs

How First Choice Inspectors Can Help

At First Choice Inspectors, we will come out to your home and conduct a mold & mildew inspection for regular mold growth, as well as black mold growth, which can be deadly. We will conduct a thorough investigation throughout your home from top to bottom, as well as in the areas you suspect the growth to be in.

If we find mold growth in smaller areas like the shower and bathroom, it’s probably okay for you to remove it yourself. If you see that mold growth is in larger areas, we advise you to have it removed by a professional.

If you’re planning on buying or selling a home, or if you suspect that you might have mold in your current home, First Choice Inspections can find out for sure. If we do find mold growth, we can direct you to a mold remediation service to help you get rid of it once and for all.

Contact First Choice Inspectors at 773-429-9711 today or visit us online for more information!

Common Issues Found in Basements and How First Choice Inspectors Can Help

Basements are extremely beneficial to have if you own a home. They can be great for storage and can be used as extra living spaces for hanging out. If you have a finished basement, there are plenty of things you can use it for. However, basements can also be a little tricky to deal with when you’re a homeowner.

Here are some common basement problems that you may encounter with your home.

Foundation inspection in home for cracks and defects

Moisture

Moisture in your basement is typically caused by either a leak or humidity. Leaks can cause localized moisture that comes and goes depending on the weather or the state of a pipe in your home, but humidity can cause moisture to form all over your basement.

Cracks

Foundation cracks could be caused by poor construction, but sometimes, there’s nothing you can do to avoid cracking foundation. Drought, hurricane, and the soil type that your home is built on can lead to foundation cracks; unfortunately, these issues are unavoidable! Soil that moves, either expansive or consolidating soil, shifts when there is moisture added to or taken away from the soil. Homes that are built on these types of soil sometimes are built to handle a bit of shifting, but extreme cases of expanding and consolidating soil are a different story.

Mold

Mold is perhaps the most dangerous and potentially hazardous issue that you could experience in your basement. If you have moisture, like we mention above, mold is likely not far behind. If you start to notice a musty smell, you might be dealing with some mold growth. If people living in the home have respiratory problems, mold can seriously exacerbate their symptoms. And after a while, if it goes untreated, mold can damage the health of anyone in your home.

How First Choice Inspectors Can Help

At First Choice Inspectors, we specialize in conducting home inspections for homeowners in Chicago. With our foundation inspection services, we’ll be able to come in and determine if there are any problems with your foundation, and we can also give you solutions on how to address them.

These three issues are common basement problems that plenty of homeowners deal with each year. The good news is, most of these issues, including foundation cracks, can be prevented by having your basement inspected regularly.

Contact us at First Choice Inspectors today to get a quote and schedule your basement inspection today!

The Importance of Replacing Your Home’s Old Windows

Benefits of Replacing Your Home’s Old WindowsIf you live in an older home, chances are you’ve experienced the hassles that accompany hard to shut, drafty and dingy old windows. There are a number of great reasons to consider replacing your old windows, and they cover both aesthetic and practical concerns. Here’s our list of the top three benefits of replacing old windows.

Energy efficiency

Old windows are often comprised of a single layer of glass. The most popular contemporary window designs typically feature two panes of glass, sometimes even three depending on the level of thermal performance a homeowner is looking for. Multi-paned windows serve as more effective insulators, keeping warm air in during the winter and cool air in during the summer. This can reduce the load placed on your HVAC system, and save you a lot of money on your energy bills in the long run.

Noise control

Modern windows have also been designed to control sound distribution. That is to say, similarly to air currents, contemporary windows can keep unwanted sounds out so that the inside of your home remains quiet and comfortable. If you live in a high-traffic area that experiences a lot of road noise or construction, a new set of windows can keep all that sound to a minimum.

Aesthetic value

Regardless of whether or not you’re planning to sell your home anytime soon, new windows can increase its market value. In addition to the increased comfort and quiet they offer, new windows enhance curb appeal and make the interior of your home look more attractive as well. By increasing the resale value of your home, new windows can be a great investment to make for the future.

Are your old windows costing you money on your monthly energy bills? A home energy audit from First Choice Inspectors can help you assess your home’s thermal performance, and make cost-effective suggestions for improvement. Get your quote today or call us at (773) 429-9711 to learn more.