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Quick and professional response. On time for appointment in the morning and had report ready that evening. Report professionally written with nice detail, including photos. All around extraordinary experience. Highly recommend WIN Home Inspection.

Competitive pricing, very thorough and responsive. Thank you mark! Cambo.

Awesome company. Great inspection attention detail was amazing.

Did a great job! Very thorough and explained everything very clearly. Definitely reccomend.

Gain valuable insights on 300+ items to make a sound decision on your investment.

Inspect your home proactively before listing it to identify issues and sell faster.

A visual inspection of your condo including major systems not covered by the HOA.

A visual inspection of your townhome including major systems not covered by the HOA. 

A visual inspection to assess the condition of the components of your duplex/multiplex.

A visual inspection to assess the condition of the components of your manufactured home.

Protect your property investment by identifying areas of concerns before you buy.

Detect this carcinogenic gas that is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers.

Detect mold via air sample to identify the presence of unseen moisture and leaks.

Identify meth residue to reduce the risk of serious health issues caused by meth exposure.

Address issues and request repairs with your builder before the warranty expires.

Get in Touch with WIN Home Inspection in {{DMA}}: Contact Us Today!

Have questions or need a professional inspection? Contact WIN Home Inspection today. Our expert team is here to assist you with all your home inspection needs.

Get in Touch with WIN Home Inspection: Contact Us Today!

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_Eww… what’s that smell coming from the shower?_

After moving into a newly purchased home, mold is one of the most annoying and disgusting problems you deal with. Mold will cause bad stains, noxious odors, and will even impact your health. Some chronic health issues can be directly related to mold buildup in your home (Harding CF, et al., 2020).

And once mold takes hold, it’s hard to get it out of your house.
 
Thankfully, getting rid of mold doesn’t have to be as troublesome as you might think!
If you want to know the secret to stopping mold in your home, keep reading to find out just how easy it is to stop mold from ever entering your beautiful new home.

## Where does mold hide in my house?
![Infographic showing common mold-prone areas in a home, including bathrooms and basements.](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Mold_Hubspots_35552430f6.jpeg)

Toxic mold rears its ugly head in 3 main places in your home: 

- Bathrooms
- Smaller, dark rooms (like closets, attics, basements, and utility spaces)
- Anywhere that can get damp or experience leaks.

The key to understanding mold is simple — mold needs **moisture**!

“But Andrei, doesn’t that mean mold can show up basically anywhere in my house? There are pipes in every room, but the living room, and so many of my closets, bathrooms, and basement don’t even get sunlight!”

You’re right, and that’s why you must work not just to get rid of mold before you move in, but to prevent mold from returning ever again. After mold takes over, the repair costs continue to just go up and up until what might have originally been a couple of hundred dollars to repair becomes a multi-thousand-dollar burden.

So, let’s see how, with **only a few minutes per day**, you can make huge progress in controlling mold in your home for good. 

## How to stop mold – bathroom first

![Wall covered in mold.](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Mold_2b0fb2edfc.png)

If mold needs moisture, your wet bathroom is mold’s favorite living space. The **best thing** you can do to get started controlling mold is to control the moisture in your bathroom first.

And like I told you before, it’s super easy. It’s not high maintenance, and it won’t take you hours on end.

### Step 1: Run the bath fan

Your first step to controlling mold in the bathroom is to turn on the bath fan when you take a shower. Most bathrooms have one installed, and if your bathroom doesn’t have one or it’s broken, you should get that fixed ASAP.

The fan will take the extra moisture in the air from your hot and steamy shower and send it outside. 

Make sure to keep your fan running for **20-30 minutes** after your shower. Then you can shut it off again to conserve energy and electricity costs.

If your bathroom has windows, **keep them open** during and after your shower for added ventilation.

**Pro tip:** You can purchase a small dehumidifier to run in your bathroom as well if it tends to get extra steamy in there.

### Step 2: Dry the shower walls and floor

Mold likes to hide in the nooks and crannies of your shower, in all the cracks between the tiles on the floor and walls. This is because after your shower, water tends to get stuck in these cracks, providing the perfect new home for mold. 

To prevent this, take 3 minutes after your shower to dry the shower walls and floor. You can use a **squeegee** or a **towel** to wipe off the moisture that collects on the tiles in the caulk lines. If your bathroom gets especially humid, wipe off the windows and doors too.
 
If you use a shower curtain, be sure to spread it out and let it air dry while you run the fan after your shower and wash it once a month.

This will help **eliminate 75% of mold- and mildew-causing moisture**. 

### Step 3: Seal the grout

Grout protection doesn’t last forever. If it’s been a long time since you sealed your grout, consider trying this. The worst mold in your bathroom loves to grow there.

- Start by using a daily cleaner to clean the tile and grout. 
- Then, spray on an antimicrobial or mold spray, such as Concrobium or Mold Armor.
- Finally, using two coats of grout sealant, seal the grout lines. 

This will **prevent water from seeping** in and starting a mold party in your walls. 

## Easy as 1, 2, 3!

And just like that, you can keep your bathroom **free of mold** and all the stinky, unhealthy issues that come with it!

This is Part 1 of a 3-part series on mold in your home. **Next week**, we’ll cover how to fix and prevent mold in those dark, hard-to-reach places in your home, at the bottom of your basement, and corners of your closets. 

If you’re buying a home and are concerned about mold, hiring a professional inspector with a mold scan and mold spore sample testing could be right for you. [Click here](https://wini.com/) to get in touch with a WIN Home Inspector today.

_**— Andrei, with WIN Home Inspection**_

References:

_Harding CF, Pytte CL, Page KG, Ryberg KJ, Normand E, Remigio GJ, DeStefano RA, Morris DB, Voronina J, Lopez A, Stalbow LA, Williams EP, Abreu N. Mold inhalation causes innate immune activation, neural, cognitive and emotional dysfunction. Brain Behav Immun. 2020 Jul;87:218-228. doi: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.11.006. Epub 2019 Nov 18. PMID: 31751617; PMCID: PMC7231651._

Kick Mold’s Butt Without the Hassle - Mold in Your Home, Part 1

For homeowners in high-wind or storm-heavy areas like Florida, a windstorm mitigation inspection is a crucial step toward reinforcing your home’s resilience against high winds, while potentially lowering your insurance costs. 

Here, we’ll look at how a windstorm mitigation inspection can enhance your protection during extreme weather, what it involves, and why it’s a wise investment for anyone in a hurricane-prone region. 

## What is a Wind Mitigation Inspection? 

As the name suggests, a [wind mitigation inspection](https://wini.com/services/wind-mitigation-inspection/) assesses your home’s defenses against high winds, especially during hurricanes. Inspectors examine your roof, windows, doors, shutters, roof-to-wall connections, and overall design to assess how well your home can withstand powerful storms and identify potential wind-mitigation steps. 

A certified inspector checks these home features to assess wind resistance and potential insurance discounts. They focus on variables such as current building codes, the home’s year of construction, roof shape and structure, roof covering, roof-deck attachment, secondary water resistance, opening protection, etc. 

For insurance companies, this inspection determines the home’s risk level. Homes with wind-resistant features such as hurricane-rated windows or reinforced roofing may qualify for insurance discounts. In high-risk areas, these savings add up, making the inspection a smart choice for [homeowners](https://wini.com/home-owner/). 

### How Is a 4-Point Inspection Different from a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

A 4-point inspection is often required for older homes and focuses on four primary systems: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and roofing. Unlike a windstorm mitigation inspection, which focuses on wind-resistant features, a [4-point inspection](https://wini.com/services/four-point-inspection/) examines the general condition of all systems. In high-risk areas, some insurers require both types of inspections for a complete understanding of the home’s condition and risk factors.

## What a Wind Mitigation Inspection Includes? 

![ Importance of wind mitigation inspections for enhancing home safety and reducing damage during storms.](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Key_Areas_in_Wind_Mitigation_Inspection_d9c3e9910f.png)

When you book an expert windstorm mitigation inspection, it includes two key steps. The first is a thorough inspection. Your inspector checks your roof and water barriers, as well as your doors, windows, and other openings. 

Once this assessment is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report to share with your insurance company. 

## Why Wind Mitigation Inspections Are Important

![Images of a roof being inspected for wind mitigation](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Wind_Mitigation_b419e23b63.jpg)

Wind mitigation involves features and strategies that strengthen homes against high winds from [hurricanes](https://wini.com/articles/know-the-key-ways-to-fully-prepare-for-hurricane-season/) and other extreme weather events. An inspector verifies them to protect your family and your property. 

For homeowners in high-wind areas, a thorough inspection is both practical and cost-effective. Reinforcing your home against storms enhances protection and offers potentially significant savings on insurance. The relatively low inspection cost makes it a worthwhile investment for most homeowners.

By investing in this service, you get insight into your home’s defenses while reducing annual insurance costs, bringing peace of mind and financial benefits. If the advantages and costs are important to you, an inspection offers value to homeowners in high-risk areas.

### Should You Seek a Windstorm Mitigation Inspection for Your Home?

If you’re in a high-risk area like Florida, a wind mitigation inspection is strongly recommended even if it’s not legally required. Many insurance providers encourage it for homeowners in these regions. For condo owners, requirements can differ since condo associations often handle the inspections and upgrades, but it’s nonetheless wise to check with your insurer to confirm any specific needs. 

Keep in mind that when buying or selling a house, a wind mitigation inspection isn’t the only inspection you’ll need. You’ll still have to get a [full home inspection](https://wini.com/services/home-inspection/), since the scope of the wind mitigation inspection is limited.

## How Wind Mitigation Inspections Can Save You Money

Taking proactive steps now provides additional safety and creates opportunities to save. By scheduling an expert windstorm mitigation inspection, homeowners can qualify for insurance discounts and save money on homeowner’s insurance. Savings depend on the inspection results, the state, and the insurer, with states like Florida requiring discounts or offering financial incentives for homes that rate well for wind resistance.

To take advantage of these savings, a certified inspector checks a home’s wind-resistant features and creates a report that supports insurance savings and safety improvements. These savings can significantly reduce a homeowner’s annual costs. 

To see if you qualify, ask your insurance provider about the available discounts and the documentation you’ll need. Your inspector should provide you with the report and any required images or videos. In many cases, insurers rely on [insurance automation software](https://www.onarchipelago.com/blog/insurance-automation-software) to streamline this process, allowing faster approval of discounts and ensuring that data from inspection reports is efficiently integrated into customer policies.

### What Is the Cost of a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

The price of a wind mitigation inspection in Florida ranges from $75 to $150. Given the potential for long-term insurance savings, many customers find this a small investment for the protection it offers. After all, [homeowners](https://wini.com/articles/homeowners-guide/) in some regions may find nearly 70% of their insurance payments going toward storm protection. The inspection pays for itself over time, especially considering the peace of mind it brings.

## What Happens During a Wind Mitigation Inspection?

During the windstorm mitigation inspection, a professional thoroughly reviews the following features: 

- **Roof Shape and Structure:** Roofs with wind-resistant designs, like hip roofs, are more durable than gable roofs. A hip roof is a bit more pyramid-shaped than the more common gable roofs.

- **Roof Deck Attachment:** Inspectors assess the roof deck’s attachment, considering factors such as nails and adhesives in relation to wind mitigation strategies.

- **Roof Covering:** The strength and type of roofing materials are important; metal and tile offer excellent wind resistance.

- **Roof-to-Wall Connections:** How your roof is connected to the walls greatly affects its stability in a storm, making it a vital component of any wind mitigation inspection.

- **Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors:** Hurricane-rated windows, shutters, and reinforced doors provide added protection.

- **Secondary Water Resistance:** An extra barrier against water intrusion is highly beneficial in heavy wind and rain.

These wind inspection elements collectively determine how well your home can handle high winds and could also qualify you for insurance savings. The goal is to assess how well each inspected feature will withstand high winds, especially in hurricane-prone areas such as Florida.

Completing a windstorm mitigation inspection identifies vulnerabilities before disaster strikes. You can then address any concerns to protect your home’s structure, reduce water intrusion during high winds and heavy rain, and improve safety. 

Following a windstorm mitigation inspection, homeowners receive a report documenting key home features. This documentation helps homeowners qualify for insurance discounts in certain states. 

After you windproof your home, be aware of local and state evacuation guidelines during severe storms. Learn more about an expert [wind mitigation inspection](https://wini.com/services/wind-mitigation-inspection/). 

## How to Get a Wind Mitigation Inspection  

![WIN Home Inspector doing wind mitigation inspection ](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/wind_mitigation_inspection_066374ff54.jpg)

In Florida and other high-risk areas, if you want to storm-proof your home and qualify for insurance discounts, a licensed professional must conduct a windstorm mitigation inspection. 

For example, you’ll need to hire home inspectors, contractors, engineers, or architects. While some may assume roofers can perform these inspections, only licensed professionals, such as trained inspectors, are authorized to conduct the analysis and provide the necessary report for insurers.

It’s best to hire a certified home inspector with experience in assessing the wind resistance of homes. They should know how to assess features such as roof shape, openings, and attachments. 

First, you’ll need to find a licensed inspector in your area, schedule an inspection, and provide any necessary documentation, such as permits or photos of recent work that may affect your roof or windows. All you need to do is book an inspection with a [trusted home inspection company](https://wini.com/about-win/), and they will walk you through the rest of the process.

## Book Your Inspection Today

[WIN Home Inspection](https://wini.com/services/) offers comprehensive services to identify potential issues before a storm hits. Schedule your wind mitigation inspection today to keep your home and family safe.

## FAQs

**How long does a wind mitigation inspection take?**

Usually 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the home’s size and features.

**Can older homes qualify for discounts?**

Yes, older homes can qualify if they have wind-resistant upgrades like reinforced roofs or impact-rated openings.

**How often should I get inspected?**

Typically, a wind mitigation inspection is valid for up to five years. After this period, a new inspection may be required to continue qualifying for insurance discounts, especially if you’ve made structural changes or upgrades.

Wind Mitigation Inspection: Storm-Proofing Your Home, Saving on Insurance

The holidays are all about making your home feel cozy and festive.

It often starts with a box of decor. You may light the fireplace for the first time and start
preparing for guests. It’s easy to get caught up in the festive spirit. Unfortunately, that can
mean potential safety hazards go unnoticed. 

To avoid increased risks, create safety habits that become annual routines.

**What types of habits?**

You may want to check a light strand before hanging it, making that an ongoing habit. When putting up decorations, you’ll want to think about heat sources. These are the types of considerations that ensure you enjoy the holidays.

The goal is to keep your home comfortable and safe. Here’s how.

## Fire Safety at Home

Once the holidays begin, make home fire safety a priority.

Good habits go a long way during this time. For example, test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in advance. To reduce stress on your electrical systems, don’t overcrowd outlets, and keep decorations away from cooking areas, fireplaces, etc.

If you have children or pets in the house, stay mindful of candles. Open flames and curtains are also a common hazard. The same applies in the kitchen. Be mindful of flammable items near cooking areas, like paper towels.

Bottom line: Any open flame should not be left unattended.

## Christmas Tree Safety

![Christmas tree highlighting areas to check like inspecting lights.](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Christmas_Tree_c32a803f1b.jpg)

A Christmas tree symbolizes the holiday season. It brings warmth and tradition to a home.
However, they can become unsafe. You must take precautions with both artificial and real
trees. Doing so helps keep your tree looking great and everyone safe.

### Water Your Tree Daily

For real trees, make sure the stand is well watered. You don’t want your tree to dry out and become brittle. At that point, it becomes more prone to fires.

Tip: Water daily and unplug it when left unattended. For example, turn the tree lights off
before leaving the house or going to bed. Again, turning these best practices into habits will ensure safety and peace of mind without any additional effort.

### Find the Right Spot

Tree placement also matters. Position it away from fireplaces, space heaters, and heating vents. Ideally, this spacing is at least three feet.

### Inspect Lights

Before decorating, carefully inspect all light strands. Replace any with signs of cracked wiring, those with loose bulbs, or damaged plugs. Also, use indoor lights.

## Fireplace and Chimney Inspection

![Home Inspector conducting a home inspection for fireplace and chimney safety.](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Fireplace_and_Chimney_Inspection_41628e36be.png)

Lighting the first fire of the season is always joyous. For many, it kicks off the late fall or winter season. Many look forward to this seasonal experience.

And while this gathering place is where memories are made, it can also be a significant hazard. Both fireplaces and chimneys must be properly maintained. If they’re not, they can pose serious risks.

Before regular use begins, you must ensure your fireplace and chimney are ready. This process often starts with a [fireplace and chimney inspection](https://wini.com/services/fireplace-and-chimney-inspection/). Taking this step helps identify normal buildup, airflow issues, or minor blockages. These may have occurred since last season.

It’s best to schedule a chimney or fireplace inspection before winter begins. This timeframe allows homeowners to address concerns early. Not only does this inspection help reduce the risk of house fires, but it can also [improve air quality](https://wini.com/services/air-quality-test/) and performance.

### **What else can you do?**

Burn seasoned wood so that fires burn more efficiently. Seasoned wood is dry, containing less than 20% moisture. Using this wood will produce more heat while reducing flammable buildup in chimneys.

A protective screen will help you keep sparks inside the fireplace. Even with a screen, keep
furniture, rugs, and decorative items at a safe distance. The goal is to reduce any risk of sparks starting a fire inside your home.

## Electrical Safety

Holiday decorating often means using more electricity. This increased load makes electrical safety during the holidays especially important.

As you add decorations, be mindful of how many items share the same outlet. Overloaded
outlets can become warm and place unnecessary strain on electrical systems.

### **Here are some additional tips:**
- Spreading decorations across multiple outlets or circuits helps manage the increased load.
- Extension cords should be placed where they will not be pinched by furniture, stepped on by guests, or exposed to moisture.
- Many homeowners choose to use timers for decorative lighting. Timers allow lights to turn off automatically overnight, helping manage energy use while offering added peace of mind.

## Fire Safety Inspection Checklist
![Fire safety checklist outlining essential tips for preventing fires during the festive season.](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Fire_Safety_Checklist_d74a42ad47.jpg)

Before you get too busy, complete a short walk-through of your home, keeping the following checklist in mind.

- **Electrical and Lighting**: Check the holiday lights for visible damage and confirm that the extension cords are in good condition. Avoid overloading outlets. Also, ensure cords are used only for their intended purpose.

- **Christmas Tree:** Place trees away from heat sources and water real trees daily. Make sure lights are securely attached. When leaving the house or going to sleep, turn the lights off.

- **Fireplace and Heating:** If you plan to use your fireplace, ensure it has been inspected. Keep the hearth clear and use a screen to contain sparks. Space heaters should stay several feet away from anything that could overheat.

- **Kitchen and Cooking Areas:** Keep counters clear so you can move safely while cooking. Stay close when frying, broiling, or simmering. It is also recommended that you keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

- **Candles and Decorative Items:** Use candles on sturdy surfaces only. Keep them away from pets and children. Extinguish them before leaving a room. Flameless options work well in busy areas.

- **Home Safety Tips:** Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and keep pathways clear for guests.

## How a Professional Inspection Supports the Holiday Season

Even with consistent routines and habits, accidents happen. That is why a trained eye is so
beneficial when dealing with safety.

A professional fire safety inspection or home inspection before winter can identify concerns that are easy to miss. For example, early chimney buildup, ventilation issues, or electrical problems. This insight helps prevent unexpected disruptions and supports a safe holiday season.

## Prepare Your Home for a Safe Festive Season

The festive season brings joy, along with increased activity throughout the home. Preparing in advance allows homeowners to focus on gatherings, celebrations, and everyday moments instead of last-minute concerns.

Since fireplaces, heaters, and decorative lighting are used more frequently during the holidays, planning ahead ensures they all function as expected. Combining practical seasonal habits with a seasonal home inspection helps reduce uncertainty and supports long-term comfort.

[WIN Home Inspection](https://wini.com/services/) comprehensive services identify potential issues and provide you with the knowledge needed to keep your home safe and comfortable.

Fire Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know This Festive Season

Many home inspection services add value to property evaluations. And infrared (IR) scanning is one of them. This technique helps inspectors spot temperature changes. In many cases, it signals issues that aren’t spotted during a visual inspection.

For example, certain materials may heat and cool in unexpected ways. This effect may warn that something behind the surface is influencing these changes.

For homeowners, buyers, and commercial property managers, this added layer of insight can make all the difference.

It is not uncommon for trapped moisture, energy-loss spots, or overheated electrical components to remain hidden. Once they become known, they have already turned into expensive repairs.

IR technology helps bring potential concerns to light in a safe, non-invasive way. This proactive approach creates greater confidence in the property's condition. All while reducing the risk of costly repairs that could have been avoided if action had been taken sooner.

## What Is Infrared (IR) Scanning? 

Infrared scanning reads temperature differences on the surface of materials.
Every object emits heat, and IR cameras detect that heat. A reading is displayed as a colored image that shows warmer and cooler areas.

When a section of a wall or ceiling becomes the focal point of an IR image, it means that something is affecting its temperature. Some examples include:

- Moisture
- Missing insulation
- Electrical resistance

IR does not ‘see through walls. Instead, it reads the surface temperature.
Inspectors use their experience to interpret possible causes. A cool section may suggest moisture. However, an unusually warm spot may indicate electrical activity or airflow. Since the process is non-invasive, it offers a quick way to gather information about a property without removing materials or causing disruption. 

### How IR Scans Work 
![Image showing a house with infrared scan, highlighting hidden moisture, electrical hot spots, HVAC inefficiencies and insulation gaps](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Success_Stories_3_a51ab3a72d.png)

Infrared scans rely on a [thermal camera](https://wini.com/articles/what-is-infrared-thermography-used-for-in-a-home-inspection/). This device measures surface temperatures and transforms those readings into colour images. Warm areas often appear bright, and cooler areas appear darker. Inspectors compare these temperature patterns against what would be expected in a well-performing home.

When something looks out of place, that often requires further investigation. This system is helpful in areas where leaks, airflow issues, or poor insulation are common. 

While the process seems simple enough, it requires experience. Interpreting an IR image takes training because temperature differences do not always indicate damage. Weather, sunlight, humidity, and HVAC all influence how materials heat and cool.

A [skilled inspector](https://wini.com/articles/what-inspections-are-needed-when-buying-a-home/) understands how to account for these conditions. They will then verify any suspicions using moisture meters, visual checks, or other diagnostic tools.
Bottom line: IR offers powerful insight, but it is most effective when combined with professional judgment. 

### What IR Scans Commonly Detect 

Infrared scanning helps uncover issues early, before they worsen. By highlighting temperature changes, inspectors know to take a closer look. Some of the most common findings include the following.

### Moisture Intrusion 

Moisture often creates cooler areas on surfaces. These spots show up clearly on thermal images. Inspectors will identify these affected areas. Causes could include plumbing leaks, roof leaks, wet insulation, or foundation seepage. Detecting moisture early helps prevent mold and structural deterioration. 

### Electrical Concerns 

Overheated wiring or loose connections generate excess heat. IR scanning brings attention to these warm spots long before a component fails. In severe cases, these issues threaten homeowner safety. Since electrical issues are a common cause of residential fires, early detection is critical. 

### HVAC Performance Issues 

Temperature inconsistencies? These can be due to uneven heating and cooling, leaky ducts, or blocked registers. IR highlights these patterns so inspectors can pinpoint where airflow is disrupted. It’s vital to find the location where the system is working harder than it should. This detection helps homeowners improve comfort and energy efficiency.

### Roofing and Insulation Problems 

IR technology helps spot wet sections of a roof. In many cases, insulation is missing or compressed. These concerns often go unnoticed until energy bills increase or leaks begin. The goal is to address insulation problems or leaks before costs skyrocket.
Benefits of Using IR Scans During Inspections 

### Some of the main benefits of IR scans include:

- Infrared scanning adds an added layer of protection during a home inspection. It offers insight that cannot be gained from a visual review alone.
- Since the process is non-invasive, inspectors can identify issues without cutting into drywall or opening ceilings. They can then see a more complete picture of how the home is functioning. They will then report whether hidden concerns might become major repairs later. 
- IR also reduces uncertainty. Rather than guessing why a wall feels cooler or why a ceiling is discolored, inspectors can provide answers. Temperature patterns will then guide the next steps.
- This technology provides clearer explanations for homeowners and buyers. With that information, they can decide which repairs truly need attention. When combined with standard inspection methods, IR scanning is an effective way to assess a property’s overall condition. 

### Limitations of IR Scans 

While helpful, infrared scanning does not diagnose problems on its own.
Temperature differences indicate that something may be happening. That knowledge leads to follow-up measures. Additional testing is usually needed to confirm the cause.

For example, a cool spot is not always caused by moisture. Just as a warm place is not always electrical. Inspectors use IR as a guide and verify their findings with other tools. 
Environmental conditions can also influence readings. Sun exposure, rain, outdoor temperature, and the operation of heating or cooling systems all affect how surfaces appear in an IR image. As a result, skill and timing play a significant role in achieving accurate results.

Bottom line: Trained inspectors don’t make assumptions. They understand that IR is a supportive tool. It is not a substitute for hands-on evaluation. 

### Things Most People Do Not Consider 

Infrared scanning is highly dependent on the environment and on the variables that influence the IR image. The experience of the person capturing the IR scan is just as imperative.

Why?

Because not every temperature change signals a problem. Just as not every issue will show up in a scan.

Bottom line: IR works best when combined with other inspection tools and the expertise of a trained professional. IR scans can often reveal early concerns in homes that appear perfectly fine on the surface. These concerns then trigger a deeper investigation that may have otherwise been missed.

### How IR Scanning Fits Into a Home Inspection 

Inspectors typically use IR scanning to examine areas where problems are likely to develop. This ability comes with experience. They know to check walls near plumbing, ceilings under the roof, electrical panels, or sections of the home where insulation performance is important.

IR helps inspectors determine whether a concern is minor or when additional testing is needed. 

At [WIN Home Inspection](https://wini.com/about-win/), infrared scanning is used to help uncover potential [health and safety issues](https://wini.com/articles/win-home-inspection-healthy-home-check/) that may be hidden behind walls or ceilings. By identifying problems such as concealed moisture or overheating electrical components early, homeowners can make better-informed decisions. These decisions typically lead to cost savings.

Bottom line: IR supports the consultative approach many inspectors take and provides additional clarity without disrupting operations. 

### The Path Forward for Homeowners and Buyers

Infrared scanning provides better insight into your property. You can then plan repairs or updates much more easily and budget accordingly. When a scan reveals a potential issue, you can address it early rather than waiting for visible damage. If the scan shows that everything is performing well, it provides reassurance that the home is in good shape.
 
Buyers often feel more confident in their purchase, and homeowners appreciate having a clearer understanding of their property. Are you preparing for an inspection or considering one? A quick conversation with a qualified inspector can help determine whether IR scanning is a good fit for your situation. 

WIN Home Inspection can help you navigate this process with clarity and confidence. Contact our team today to schedule an [Infrared (IR) Scan](https://wini.com/services/infrared-scan-ir/) or a [Full Home Inspection](https://wini.com/services/home-inspection/). 

Infrared Scanning Explained: What They Detect

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Infrared (IR) Scan

Detect and mitigate clogged or damaged sewer lines before backups in the home occur. 

Sewer Scope Inspection

Protect the home’s structural integrity by identifying signs of pest infestations. 

WDO/WDI (Pest) Inspection

Mold Air Test 

Check the home’s wind resistance features and save on homeowners insurance.

Wind Mitigation Inspection

Commercial Inspection

Get an unbiased assessment of the rental home’s condition before moving in.

Move-In Inspection

Condo Inspection

Duplex/Multiplex Inspection

Manufactured Home Inspection

A visual inspection to assess the condition of the components of your mobile home.

Mobile Home Inspection

A thorough inspection of a recently purchased home, giving peace of mind after closing.

Post-Close Inspection

Confirm all the requested repairs have been made from the initial inspection report.

Re-Inspection

Detect mold via surface sample to protect against health issues and structural damage.

Mold Surface Test

Identify lead, prevalent in homes built before 1978, to reduce the risk of health effects.

Lead Test

Meth Test

Detect nitrates, bacteria and other contaminants in tap water that lead to health issues.

Water Quality Test

Identify elevated radon levels in groundwater to eliminate its harmful health effects.

Radon-in-Water Test 

Ensure the septic system is free and clear of debris and is functioning properly. 

Septic Inspection

Ensure adequate water flow from the well system to the home. 

Well Flow Test

Inspect the fireplace and chimney to reduce fire hazards like creosote buildup.

Fireplace and Chimney Inspection

Inspect your dock to check for structural damage, wood rot and other safety hazards.

Boat Lift and Dock Inspection

Inspect the foundation and other areas to ensure quality throughout the building process.

Construction Phase Inspection

Check for safety hazards including wood rot, loose floorboards or handrails.

Deck Inspection

Assess the progress made on a new construction home to ensure it’s built according to plan.

Draw Inspection

Get recurring updates on your appliances, including recalls, long after your inspection.

WIN Appliance Report

Healthy Home Check

Mold Air Test

Radon-in-Water Test

Elevate your listing, increase visibility on home selling platforms, and sell faster.

WIN360 3D Virtual Tour and 2D Floor Plan

List your home confidently by identifying potential issues before the buyer’s inspection.

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