Anyone who lives in Chicago knows how unpredictable the weather can be. One day it’s freezing, the next it’s melting, and then it’s freezing again. While most people think about how this affects their commute or their pipes, few realize just how much this constant freezing and thawing can damage a home’s foundation. At First… Read more »
Chicago’s winters and unpredictable spring thaws can be tough on a home. The constant freezing and warming causes building materials to expand and contract. Over time, that movement creates stress points throughout your home’s protective barrier, often called the building envelope. This includes siding, masonry, windows, roofing, and insulation. Knowing how the freeze-thaw cycle impacts… Read more »
When you think about owning or buying an older home, you might picture charming details, unique architecture, or a rich history. But beneath all that character lies something critical— the foundation. It’s easy to overlook, yet it’s what holds your entire home together. Unfortunately, foundation problems in older homes can be tricky to spot, expensive… Read more »
Summers in Chicago can be beautiful—but they’re also incredibly humid. And while we all know to brace ourselves for heatwaves and thunderstorms, there’s one thing many homeowners forget to watch out for: mold. That sticky, muggy summer air doesn’t just make us uncomfortable—it creates a prime environment for mold to thrive inside homes. If you’ve… Read more »
Summertime in Chicago brings sunshine, warm breezes—and unfortunately, termites. While most homeowners are focused on cookouts and home improvements, termites are quietly doing their own kind of damage beneath the surface. These destructive pests become especially active in the warmer months, which makes summer the ideal time to schedule a professional home inspection. At First… Read more »
It’s a scenario more common than you might think: a homeowner spots a mysterious water stain on the ceiling or a warped patch of flooring, yet every pipe and appliance check out fine. No leaks, no flooding—but the damage is real. So, where is the water coming from? At First Choice Inspectors, we know that… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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. What… Read more »
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… Read more »