Michael Petruccelli asks; What are some ways to spruce up my curb appeal? (2) Mailboxes

Michael Petruccelli says;  Make the area a focal point. Instead of just a post in the ground, now your mailbox is becoming a focal point. Finish that thought by adding a mulch circle and edging the area with stones or decorative trim.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(13)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Look for moss, mold or brown spots on roofing material. Also check for low hanging limbs or tree branches resting on the roof.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(12)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Take a moment to look at your roof venting. Make sure it is not blocked or clogged. Birds, squirrels, and raccoons commonly will nest in vents and roof overhangs.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(11)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Are there signs of previous repairs? Note the location and condition of those repairs.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(10)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Are there signs of ponding created where low sloped roofs have started to sag? Do you see cracking, blistering or alligatoring of the roofing material of low sloped roofs?

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(9)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Look at the top of the chimney, called the splay or cap. Is it cracked or otherwise allowing water to penetrate the chimney interior?

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(8)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Protruding nails (called nail pops) or nails not flush with underlying shingles need to be reset or replaced.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(7)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Check for worn or damaged flashing around projections through the roof such as vent pipes or hoods, skylights, radon vents, and chimneys. You might also look for metal flashing in the valleys, inspecting for rust.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(6)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Do you see signs of damage from wind, hail, or mechanical impact? Shingles may be torn, missing worn from tree branches,have holes or punctures, or may be cupping and curling at the edges. Ice damming commonly occurs when melting snow refreezes at the roof's overhang and will cause shingles to deteriorate prematurely. If in doubt about any observed deficiencies, contract your insurance company and schedule an adjuster to conduct an inspection free of charge.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(5)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Debris in valleys and gutters should be removed as it blocks water runoff, which may backup under shingles and penetrate the home. Gutters and down spouts should be free flowing and unrestricted.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(4)

Michael Petruccelli says;   Look at the edge of the shingles at the fascia or gutter area. Do you

see multiple layers? Two layers is the maximum desired. Do you know the age of this roof covering? Most asphalt shingles are designed to last about 20 years.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(3)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Here is a roofing maintenance checklist homeowners 

can use to assess the health of their roof. As for repairs, it is always  

recommended that a licensed, professional roofer is used. You may find a 

problem using these methods, but it is essential that repairs are preformed 

correctly and thoroughly by a a licensed professional; otherwise, the 

problem could continue to exist - or even get worse.  I will follow up with 

some things to consider when examining your roof.

Michael Petruccelli asks; Roofs are always a big question mark, what are some of the roof basics?(2)

Michael Petruccelli says;  When attempting to do roof work or inspect your roof, 

don't forget to check for over head electrical lines when carrying your ladder to 

the access point and again when walking on the roof. Check the roof sheathing 

from the attic for deterioration BEFORE walking on the roof. And do not walk on 

tile, slate, or a wet and/or mossy wood shingle/shake roofs.

Michael Petruccelli asks; How do you prevent your pets from taking a bite out of your sale? (13)

Michael Petruccelli says; Get well soon. Maintain your animal's health. 

Not only will your pet thank you, but so will your home. A sick animal 
can be extremely damaging (long term) to your carpeting and/or furniture. 

Inspections will note stains on your flooring materials as areas of concern. 

Michael Petruccelli asks; How do you prevent your pets from taking a bite out of your sale? (12)

Michael Petruccelli says; Ocean views. Check your fish tanks 

frequently for leaking. It doesn't take much to ruin a wood 

floor, or sub flooring under a carpet. Inspections will look 

for water damage under the tank area and again at the next 

level below.

Michael Petruccelli asks; How do you prevent your pets from taking a bite out of your sale? (11)

Michael Petruccelli says; Itching to sell? Does your pet have fleas? You’ll want 

to take care of the issue immediately, especially for your pet’s sake, but you’ll 

also be happy to know that with the help of a specialist, a flea problem can be 

fixed without replacing your carpet.  

Michael Petruccelli asks; How do you prevent your pets from taking a bite out of your sale? (10)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Urine? You're out! When speaking of pet odors, urine 

probably has to be the number one cause for wrinkled noses. But don’t be fooled 

by claims that painting over the damage is enough to fix and seal the issue. Urine 

stains in carpet can seep down into the carpet pad and even into the sub-floor 

leaving lingering odors that could deter potential buyers. Floors, wood trim, or 

drywall that has been damaged by urine ultimately needs to be replaced. That 

is the only way to truly remove the damage/stains and the resulting odor. 

Michael Petruccelli asks; How do you prevent your pets from taking a bite out of your sale? (7)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Nothing to sneeze at. Pets, for some, mean allergies and unpleasant smells. Some buyers’ allergies are so strong that dander in carpets and furniture can cause an attack within minutes and make a walk-through miserable or even impossible. So keep carpets and furniture vacuumed regularly—and let’s not forget about general pet odors. Without going overboard, carpet deodorizing treatments, air fresheners or some strategically-placed potpourri dishes (not where Fido can reach them) should do the trick.

Michael Petruccelli asks; How do you prevent your pets from taking a bite out of your sale? (5)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Another common condition is scratched window screens. They can be repaired as well, but replacement is probably the best way to go if you’re looking to impress buyers with your home. 

Michael Petruccelli asks; How do you prevent your pets from taking a bite out of your sale? (4)

Michael Petruccelli says;  A home inspector will note any damage 

to components (doors, floors, weather stripping, screens) if it 

affects the overall function of any system within the home.  

Luckily, scratches on hardwood floors (or the cabinet 

door where you keep Fido’s treats) can easily be fixed with 
a good sanding and finish, but the damage, if left 

untreated, can completely draw attention away from the 

beautiful wood features in your home.