When you're building a new home, the excitement of creating a space designed just for you can often overshadow some crucial details—like ensuring that the construction is up to code and that your new house is safe from termites. Inspections during new construction are essential, and for homeowners, builders, and inspectors alike, understanding the importance of these early inspections can make all the difference in long-term home safety.
Why New Construction Inspections Matter
Many homeowners assume that because a home is new, it doesn't need to be inspected. However, even newly built homes can have issues that, if left unaddressed, could cause significant problems down the road. For instance, construction debris such as form boards or leftover wood scraps can be left behind during the building process. These materials may seem harmless, but they can attract termites or other pests, leading to infestations that could compromise the structural integrity of your home.
New construction inspections allow professionals to assess critical points in the building process, including flashing at windows, decking, and plumbing penetrations. It's important to catch potential issues early, as this helps ensure that everything from the framing to the termite treatments is done correctly. Addressing these details now can prevent costly repairs and problems in the future.
Spotting Termite Concerns During Construction
Termite prevention is a key part of the inspection process during new construction. The sooner you can spot potential termite risks, the better. Inspectors like Luke from LunsPro Inspection Group emphasize the importance of checking for signs of proper termite pretreatment during construction.
For example, inspectors will look for evidence of borate treatments on wood framing, which can help protect against termites. They'll also check to see if a pre-slab liquid termiticide treatment has been applied to the soil before the foundation is poured. This treatment creates a barrier that can prevent termites from entering the home through the ground. Understanding the type of termite treatment used—whether it's liquid termiticide, baits like Sentricon, or another method—gives homeowners peace of mind that their new home is protected from these destructive pests.
Understanding the Inspection Process
During a new construction inspection, professionals carefully examine various aspects of the build. This can include checking the windows to ensure they are properly flashed and sealed to prevent water intrusion, as well as inspecting the plywood or OSB decking. In addition, plumbing penetrations and sill plates are also inspected to ensure they are correctly installed and sealed.
These inspections aren't just about finding flaws—they're about gaining a better understanding of how your home is being built. For instance, if you see form boards left in place around the foundation, it might raise questions about how this will affect the build in the long term. These inspections also offer insight into what future maintenance might be needed and whether the builder is following best practices.
Termite Treatment Options: Pre-Slab, Vertical, and Horizontal Treatments
When it comes to termite prevention, there are several approaches that can be taken depending on the stage of construction. A pre-slab liquid termiticide treatment is one of the most common and involves treating the soil before the concrete foundation is poured. This creates a barrier to stop termites from entering the home from below.
In addition to pre-slab treatments, vertical and horizontal termite treatments may also be necessary. Vertical treatments involve treating the soil along the foundation walls, while horizontal treatments focus on treating the soil beneath the home. These comprehensive treatments provide an added layer of protection against termites.
For those in the termite business or homeowners curious about their termite protection plan, asking questions like, "Was a pretreatment done?" or "What type of termite treatment was used?" can be crucial to understanding how well-protected your new home is.
The Benefits of Early Inspections
By inspecting a home during the early stages of construction, professionals can spot and address potential issues before they become major problems. This not only saves time and money in the long run but also ensures that your home is built to last. Whether it's spotting gaps in termite treatment or ensuring that windows are properly installed, these inspections provide homeowners with peace of mind.
New construction inspections are an essential step in protecting your investment. With the help of experienced professionals like the team at LunsPro Inspection Group, you can ensure that your home is not only built to your specifications but also built to last.