Is there lead paint in your home?

Ninety-five percent of housing units built in Maryland before 1978 contain lead paint, according to the Maryland Department of the Environment.

Is your home one of the many?

Maryland law requires all multi-family and single-family rental dwellings built before 1978 to be tested for lead paint. In addition, federal law requires the disclosure of lead-based paint in all properties sold or leased.

Lead cannot be seen or smelt. Despite this, it can create a range of serious health issues if left untreated in the home including lethargy, frequent headaches, delayed mental and physical developments, and abdominal pain.

Lead paint is most hazardous when it is deteriorating, such as chipping, flaking or chalking. It can also be dangerous when maintenance or remodeling causes lead dust or debris to surface.

Alban Inspections is lead paint inspection qualified, accredited in lead dust pre-occupancy testing, visual compliance inspections and lead risk assessments.

Schedule an assessment today to learn more.

President Obama announces new energy efficient changes

According to a recent press release from the White House, President Obama remains committed to reducing climate change and increasing energy efficiency in the U.S.

The U.S. is moving toward a more savvy, energy efficient landscape through a host of changes in a range of fields.

In 2014, the U.S. added solar industry jobs 10 times faster than the rest of the economy. In addition, solar energy usage surged, using more every three weeks than all of 2008 combined. Since 2010, the average cost of a solar powered system has dropped by 50 percent, and 44 states have price reductions that encourage residents to invest in its capabilities. 

By switching to Energy Star Program appliances, consumers continue to save $34 billion per year, since 2008, and will continue to do so going forward.

New changes in President Obama's plan to foster better efficiency and reduce monthly bills include:

  • A new $24 million investment for 11 projects in seven states to develop innovative solar technology.
  • Creating a $1 billion additional loan guarantee to enable energy project distribution and the use of innovative technology for more Americans.
  • Establishing an Interagency Task Force to promote a clean energy future for all Americans , as well as developing independent commitments from local governments to see it through.
  • Invest in energy efficiency for 300,000 low-income households and investing more than $220 million in energy saving activities for veterans and low-income customers.

As these changes begin to transpire, be sure to do your part when it comes to energy efficiency too. Schedule an energy audit with Alban Inspections to learn more about the efficiency of your home and how you can make improvements. Visit our website for more information.

How can radon enter a home?

Although homeowners realize that radon can be a household issue they must contend with, many don't know what it actually is or how it can seep into their home.

Radon is an invisible, odorless and tasteless gas that has the ability to permeate through a home from its foundation, flooring and roof. It can also enter the home through a tainted water supply and uranium-enriched building materials. 

It is estimated that one in 15 homes have an unsafe amount of radon, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

The only way to determine if your home has radon in it is by scheduling a radon testing. Although testing the entire home is best, most experts recommend evaluating the space below the third floor. Alban Inspections uses the Radalink Radon TeleMonitor for short-term or pre-sale inspections and Alpha-track testers for long-term sales (defined as over 90 days on the market).

After these assessments are completed, a full disclosure of all information is reported to both Alban inspectors and the homeowners or realtor.

The EPA recommends that homeowners test for radon every two years to ensure that there are no new levels in the home, or that the present levels are not above 4 picocuries per liter.

The EPA also recommends testing if:

  • Alterations to the home are made that could change the ventilation pattern
  • An addition has been built on the home
  • If significant blasting or construction is completed near the home
  • Major cracks appear in the foundation walls or slabs

Exposure to radon in a home is responsible for an estimated 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year. Schedule an appointment with Alban Inspections today to learn more about radon testing or other home issues such as mold growth and lead paint exposure.

Visit our website for more information.

3 end-of-summer home improvement projects to tackle this August

Although many wish it wouldn’t come to a close, the last weeks of August signify a shift from the dog days of summer into back-to-school mode for parents and kids.

Before the weekly activities, meetings and other commitments begin to pile up again, there are a few summer home projects to do before fall rolls around.

Landscaping is a great end-of-the-summer routine to begin. Cleaning out the garden or pulling weeds and dried-out plants signifies a shift to fall foliage and warmer-toned arrangements of fall and winter-ready flowers. Getting a head start never hurts.

Although most landscaping jobs can be done by a homeowner, be sure to leave pruning and ladder-work to experienced professionals.

Before you seal your home up against the cool weather to come, keep all pests such as termites and spiders outside as well. Check windows, doors and other entryways for small passageways that can be used by critters.

Finally, check out the energy efficiency of your home. Scheduling an energy audit with Alban Inspections is a great way to reduce heating and other bills that accompany autumn.

3 more home inspection tips you need to know

How can you get the most out of your home inspection experience? Potential buyers should always look at an inspection as a real introduction to the home, one that should solidify or discourage their reason to invest in the property.

Keep the following three tips in mind for a thorough, reliable home inspection experience:

  • Be present during the inspection: Often, homeowners decide to pass over attending the inspection. At Alban, we encourage all parties involved to attend the inspection and ask questions or voice concerns as needed. This often gives homeowners a better understanding of the property as well as a more in-depth look. 
  • Don't be afraid you're being "too pushy:" As a future homeowner of the property, you have every right to view the home from top to bottom and all the space in-between. Inspectors should be able to answer all of your questions in a detailed manner and directly show you the issue if necessary.
  • Enlist the right kind of help: Only use a trusted home inspection company for your inspection needs. A company such as Alban Inspections is best, as we are both experienced and qualified in the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) code of ethics. This ensures your inspection is done by the book and gives you the peace of mind you deserve.

At the end of your home inspection, Alban gives a detailed report that includes home strengths, areas of concern and maintenance tips. In addition to the usual electrical, plumbing, and heating and cooling systems checkups, we also conduct tests on excess moisture, temperature and the condition of the home's drywall.  

Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your inspection today.

3 home maintenance tips for the summer

The summer is a great opportunity to get outside and spend some carefree time in the sunshine. Although seasonal adventures can be tempting, make sure your home is in great shape to not only leave alone for a few days, but to entertain guests as well.

Keep the following three tips in mind for optimal summer maintenance.

Before opening the windows, be sure their screens have no rips or tears. In addition, before turning on the air conditioner confirm that all the windows are able to shut tightly to conserve energy and save money.

Check out the roof for any potential signs of leaks or damage. As the summer months can bring rain, this can help prevent issues before they begin.

Inspect the patio for any pests, major damage or excess sloping before having guests over. Something as simple as a power wash can make a big difference.

Check back here for weekly summer tips from your friendly Alban inspectors this summer.

3 home maintenance tips for the summer

The summer is a great opportunity to get outside and spend some carefree time in the sunshine. Although seasonal adventures can be tempting, make sure your home is in great shape to not only leave alone for a few days, but to entertain guests as well. Keep the following three tips in mind for optimal summer maintenance. Before opening the windows, be sure their screens have no rips or tears. In addition, before turning on the air conditioner confirm that all the windows are able to shut tightly to conserve energy and save money. Check out the roof for any potential signs of leaks or damage. As the summer months can bring rain, this can help prevent issues before they begin. Inspect the patio for any pests, major damage or excess sloping before having guests over. Something as simple as a power wash can make a big difference. Check back here for weekly summer tips from your friendly Alban inspectors this summer.

Reduce your yearly expenses with energy efficient changes

It may seem like saving money is hard to do. With the cost of living continuing to rise, many people wonder how they can save money while still maintaining their lifestyle.

There is a way to accomplish this through investing in more energy efficient means. Save money on next month's utility bills as well as reduce your carbon footprint by keeping the following five tips in mind:

  • Air leaks: The drafty window in your upstairs bedroom may not seem like a big deal, but over time it can lead to a massive loss of heat or cool air, resulting in a waste of energy and money. Check windows, doors and the home's foundation for any openings.
  • Check your heating and cooling system annually: Before you turn on your heat, be sure to check your entire system and ensure it is in proper working order. Research from the U.S. Department of Energy has concluded that heating and cooling your home uses the most energy out of any other system, often making up half of your monthly bills. 
  • Close the curtains: Keep your home cool on sunny days by closing the curtains. Likewise, keep the curtains open in the winter on sunnier days to let the heat in.
  • Replace your light bulbs: If you haven't already, be sure to make the switch to LED light bulbs, which are 80 percent more efficient than regular incandescent lighting.
  • Unplug it: If an appliance isn't in use, be sure to unplug it to conserve energy and save money.

Learn more about energy efficiency on our website, or schedule an energy audit in your home today. Home energy efficiency begins with you.

Windows are key in energy efficiency

There are many ways that a home can become more energy efficient. Windows are often a great place to start for new and old homeowners.

Windows are known as one of the largest contributors to a home's overall efficiency. Installing energy efficient windows can decrease bills, reduce the carbon footprint and increase overall home value.

According to Energy Star, replacing single pane windows with its products can save up to 6,000 pounds of carbon dioxide a year from entering the atmosphere. That is equivalent to up to 310 gallons of gasoline. 

Upon a resale of the home, this change can cause a 78 percent cost return, according to data from the National Association of Realtors.

Keep the following three tips in mind when shopping for energy efficient windows:

  • Product material: Look for windows that are made with sustainable materials such as recycled glass, wood or other industrial materials. 
  • Location: Install windows in areas that have a lot of natural light. This can help keep utility bills down, as well as create natural heat. 
  • Lower U-values: These types of windows resist the transfer of heat, keeping it cool inside during the summer and warm inside during the winter. In addition, having a double pane window instead of a single pane can also make a difference, insulating the home better.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, homeowners spend more money to keep their homes cool in the summer, especially those with older window systems. Take back control of your bills today.

To learn more about the energy efficiency of your home, or to schedule an energy audit, schedule a consultation with Alban Inspections today.

3 home issues to keep in mind during a walk-through

During a home inspection, there are many issues that should be covered to ensure that your new property is a great fit in terms of both aesthetics and safety.

In addition to the foundation, heating system and insulation, there are many other factors that should be taken into account. Keep the following three issues in mind during your next home inspection:

  • Appliances that are left behind: Although an appliance left behind by previous homeowners may seem like a great thing to have, it may not be if it doesn't work. Before agreeing to let them leave it behind, be sure it runs well.
  • DIY improvements: If a homeowner just made a big change in the home, such as fixing pipes or building an addition, be sure that what they did is safe and suitable for you and your family. Cutting corners in these projects can lead to serious issues in a home, even if they can't readily be seen.
  • Leaking faucets: Although plumbing is often a main issue during inspections, be sure inspectors take an adequate amount of time to test each part, such as the draining of the shower, leaks and grout that may be growing mold in hidden areas,

Although a home inspection may not seem like a hard feat to cover, often, the best course of action is to bring in a professional. Get the best results and the most comprehensive checkup with an inspection completed by Alban Inspections. 

Our inspection includes a list of your home's strengths, areas of concern and tips for future maintenance. To learnn more about our home inspection contractors, visit our website