Wolf's Home Inspections LLC

Robert already lost the bet about me getting in the attic and decided to double down on me getting out. Not a big fan of attics but $20 is $20

Those little holes might be doing more damage than you think!

During a recent inspection, I noticed damage on the fascia board of a neighboring property that fits the typical appearance of carpenter bee activity.

Carpenter bees don’t eat wood like termites. Instead, they bore into wood to create tunnels for nesting. Their entry holes are usually round and about ½ inch in diameter. Over time, repeated nesting and expanding tunnels can weaken fascia, trim, decking, and other exposed wood.

🔎 Signs to watch for:
• Nearly perfect round holes in exposed wood
• Sawdust or wood shavings below the holes
• Yellow/brown staining around entry points
• Bees repeatedly hovering near fascia, soffits, decks, or trim
• Woodpecker damage around areas where bees have nested

🛠️ Ways to help prevent carpenter bee damage:
• Keep exterior wood properly painted, stained, or sealed
• Repair deteriorated or exposed wood
• Pay particular attention to fascia, soffits, railings, decks, and other unfinished wood
• Have active infestations properly treated before sealing existing holes
• Periodically inspect previously affected areas, since carpenter bees may return to old nesting sites

This is another reason the exterior inspection is more than just looking at siding and shingles. Sometimes a small hole can tell a much bigger story.

Rainy days can make for great inspection days

We had rain earlier today, which created a perfect opportunity to put thermal imaging to work.

During the inspection, we identified an unusual thermal pattern on the ceiling. The homeowner confirmed there had previously been a water leak in that exact area, which had since been repaired.

Fortunately, there were no indications of an active leak, but had moisture still been present, thermal imaging could have helped us identify the area for further investigation.

It’s another reason we use thermal imaging as part of our home inspections. Sometimes what you can’t see with your eyes can still tell a story.

Robert’s got something to say and today he’s got a bone to pick about deck connections. 😤

An estimated 90% of deck collapses are associated with failure at the ledger-board connection—the critical point where an attached deck connects to the home. That’s why we look closely at the fastening, flashing, deterioration, and overall condition of this connection.

We also test guardrails for stability and check baluster spacing. Openings between balusters should generally be less than 4 inches to help prevent a child from passing through.

A deck may look solid from above, but it’s the connections underneath that can tell the real story.

🐺 Wolf’s Home Inspections
When you trust the alpha, the pack wins.