A great number of my home inspections are done in Akron, Ohio – from the Montrose Ghent area, Merriman Valley to Goodyear Heights, Stoney Hill and the Portage Lakes. Akron is one of the best places to live in the state of Ohio because this sprawling city blends metropolitan conveniences such as shopping, universities, concert venues, sports, historic attractions, museums as well as outdoor recreation, lush parks and of course that small town feel and charm of pedestrian-orientated neighborhoods. Akron has a mix of home styles ranging from turn-of-the-century craftsman, contemporary split-levels, farm houses and ornate Victorian residences.
Most of the concerns that I run into in the Akron area include electrical updates, plumbing updates, structural concerns as well as wood destroying insect damage.
Electrical update issues usually involve the use of knob-and-tube wiring. This form of wiring was used from the late 1800’s till the 1930’s. While this type of wiring usually is just as efficient as modern wiring, it does not meet modern building codes and is not considered up to code in most municipalities due to the possibility of electrical fires and the need for this type of wiring to remain in cool, open spaces without insulation. If your property needs knob-and-tube wiring to be replaced it may cost upwards of $5,000-$15,000 depending on how large the property is and any major issues found during an inspection.
The most common plumbing issue in Akron homes, especially older homes built in the 1920’s and 1930’s is galvanized water piping. Problems with this type of plumbing include low water pressure, discolored water and leaking pipes. Galvanized steel lasts anywhere from thirty to seventy years. I see that most galvanized plumbing has now reached its expected service life and is significantly corroding. Replacing interior plumbing to PEX tubing or copper piping can range from $5,000 to $15,000.
While most people think of termites and wood destroying insects as being a problem in the southern United States, the truth is that we have them in Northeast Ohio as well. Subterranean termites are found in almost every state. They can be found in porch steps, decking, door and window frames, as well as bricks and concrete blocks. The best approach with wood destroying insects is to eradicate the problem as soon as possible. If you find one termite, chances are good that an entire colony is nearby causing costly structural damage.
Structural concerns are another issue that home buyers in Akron should be aware of. Integrity Home Evaluation Services will inspect: roofs, ceilings, drywall, floors, windows, doors, attics, crawlspaces, basements, foundations, load bearing components, beams, trusses, columns and posts. We will ensure that you are aware of any damage that may compromise the integrity of your home.
Integrity Home Evaluation Services is your premier, licensed home inspection company of Northeast Ohio. We serve the neighborhoods of Akron, Aurora, Brecksville, Cuyahoga Falls, Hudson, Kent, Medina, Streetsboro, Stow, Solon and Twinsburg. We service Cuyahoga, Geauga, Medina, Portage and Summit counties. Contact us today!