Blog
Coles Inspection ServicesHome and Vacation Property Inspections in North Carolina
6 Fundamentals to Help You Paint Like a Pro
Giving your home a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into its appearance and create a welcoming atmosphere for you and your guests. While hiring a professional painter is always an option, many homeowners prefer to tackle painting projects themselves to save...
Installing and Maintaining Smoke Detectors in the Home
Smoke detectors in the home alert your family to the first signs of a fire. These small devices are inconspicuous but essential for a safe dwelling. The first step to boost safety is understanding the best practices for smoke detector installation and maintenance....
5 Tips to Clean and Maintain Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood flooring is a classic choice for your home, providing timeless, natural beauty that adds warmth and elegance to any space. If you want your hardwood floors to stay in good condition and look great for years, they need proper care. Whether you have hardwoods,...
5 Low-Maintenance Houseplants to Brighten Your Indoors this Winter
In winter, we spend more time inside our homes to enjoy the warmth and comfort. However, our indoor environment can start feeling dull, affecting our mood and productivity. A simple way to counteract this is by incorporating houseplants into your interior design....
5 Steps to Prepare for a Power Outage
Power outages can happen anytime, whether due to severe weather, equipment failure, or other unforeseen circumstances. Being prepared for such situations is essential to ensure the safety and comfort of your household. Here are helpful, practical steps to prepare for...
6 Tips to Increase Holiday Safety at Home
The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and celebration. It's a time for families and friends to come together, exchange gifts, and create lasting memories. However, amidst the festivities, it's essential to prioritize safety, especially in your home. Here are...
How to Heat Your Home Safely: 5 Tips for Homeowners
Fall has arrived, and with it, cooler weather. As a homeowner, you may feel ready to turn on the heat, but make sure your heating system is ready for use. Of course, you want to keep your family warm and living spaces cozy, but ensuring their safety is essential. Here...
5 Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Cozy Living Spaces
As summer ends and autumn settles in, it’s time to gear up for fall and prepare your home for the colder days ahead. Fall is the ideal season to tackle basic upkeep so your living spaces remain warm, efficient, and problem-free throughout winter. Here are a few...
6 Common Concerns in Older Homes Hombuyers Should Consider
Some homebuyers prefer to look for older homes. Older homes can be charming, have unique character, and are often located in established neighborhoods. However, older homes come with their own set of concerns that should not be overlooked. Before you decide to buy an...
5 Tips for Cleaning the Gutters
Gutters are essential for the health and upkeep of your home; however, they can become clogged with leaves and debris. Cleaning the gutters is a challenging job, but the channels must be clear so rainwater can flow away from the house and foundation. Here are tips for...
7 Power Tool Safety Tips for Home Improvements
Power tools assist in home improvement tasks, helping you complete a job quickly and easily. However, using power tools is not without risk. Take proper precautions when using tools for your DIY projects. Here are seven power tool safety tips to help prevent accidents...
5 DIY Updates to Prepare Your Home for Summer
Summer is just around the corner, and it's time to prepare your property for the warmer months ahead. Whether you're looking to improve your home's curb appeal or update the interior, there are plenty of quick updates to impact the look and feel of your home. Here are...
7 Tips to Help You Improve Home Security
Are you concerned about the safety of your home? If so, it's time to take some steps toward improving home security. With a few smart strategies, you can ensure your house is secure from intruders and give yourself peace of mind. In this article, we'll explore how you...
7 Tips for Container Gardening
Container gardening is an easy, affordable, and fun way to enjoy fresh plants in your outdoor space. Not only can gardening spruce up the look of your yard or balcony, but you also get to experience the joys of growing your own flowers or vegetables. Here are some...
6 Signs a Home is Structurally Sound
When buying a home, it’s important to make sure the house's structure is sound. There are several signs you can look for when assessing a home’s structural integrity. The best way to determine the structural integrity of a house is by having a professional inspection...
4 Risks That Come with Poor Attic Ventilation
Attic ventilation is essential for maintaining your home's temperature and air quality. It helps regulate temperatures, prevents moisture buildup, and reduces energy costs by preventing heat buildup in the attic space. Proper attic ventilation can also help extend the...
4 Signs of Structural Problems in a Home
When it comes to homeownership, paying attention to the property is essential to detect problems. Spotting structural concerns can be challenging if you don’t know what to look for, but with a bit of knowledge, you can find issues before they become hazardous. Here...
4 Ways to Boost Curb Appeal This Fall
The milder fall weather offers the perfect opportunity to make changes to your home’s exterior. Whether you’re looking to sell your home or want to spruce things up, here are four easy ways to boost curb appeal this fall. 1. Give Your Front Door a Makeover Your front...
5 Health Hazards in the Home
We want our homes to be safe, providing shelter from the outside world. It should be a place where a family can relax and feel secure. However, many houses contain hidden dangers that threaten our health and safety. Here are five of the most common health hazards in...
7 Must-Have Tools Every Homeowner Should Have
Whether you occasionally tackle DIY projects or prefer to let the experts handle them, there are a few must-have tools in which every homeowner should invest. Owning a home makes you responsible for the property, including maintenance and repairs. While not all...
8 Ways to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient
In addition to being good for the environment, having an energy-efficient home helps you save money in the long term. Here are a few ways you can make your home more energy-efficient. HVAC Maintenance Hire a professional to service your HVAC system regularly. Regular...
7 Tips for Conserving Water in Summer
Conserving water during in summer months is more challenging because it is the season when people use more water. Many activities make saving water difficult, from swimming to taking more frequent showers to watering the lawn. Here are a few ways to save water during...
5 Summer Home Maintenance Tasks
Summer is a great time of year for vacations, camping outdoors, and spending time with family and friends. No one wants to spend the entire summer on maintenance, but taking time to care for your home is essential. You'll maintain the property value and reduce...
3 Plants for Your Patio
Plants naturally improve curb appeal and deter annoying insects and pests from your deck, porch, and patio. Plants are an inexpensive and valuable addition to any property. Whether you’re hoping to keep bugs away or add outdoor interest that’s easy to maintain, here...
4 Ways to Promote Electrical Safety in the Home
Every day, millions of Americans plug appliances into the wall, turn on light switches, and install new fixtures. While electrical wiring today is safer than it has been, using electricity is not without risk. To avoid injury or house fire, here are a few tips for...
5 Steps to Clean an Oven
Cleaning an oven isn't as challenging or complicated as you might think. It's a simple procedure that takes time to complete. The following is a step-by-step guide with everything you need to know to clean an oven like a pro. 1. Empty the Oven Start by removing any...
4 Easy Bathroom Updates to Do Over the Weekend
You don’t have to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars for every home remodeling or improvement project you undertake. There are plenty of easy bathroom updates you can do yourself to modernize or personalize the space. 4 Easy Bathroom Updates to Do Over the Weekend...
9 Things That May Cause Mold at Home
Keeping Your Home Free of Mold Mold plays an essential role in nature by breaking down dead organic matter. However, mold is harmful indoors because it causes allergies, illness, and even structural damage. Here are some things that cause mold at home. Ignoring Leaks...
4 Fireplace Safety and Maintenance Tips
A fireplace is a great way to warm your home on cold winter days. Fireplace safety is essential if you want to enjoy the warmth of a fire without the risk of hazards. Here are a few safety and maintenance tips to help you keep your fireplace in safe working condition....
5 Safe Pet-Friendly Indoor Plants
The Best Plants for a Household with Pets Indoor plants improve your quality of life in many ways. Not only do they add aesthetic value to a room, but they also provide fresh oxygen and help purify the air. If you have pets, it's important to choose plants that are...
4 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Winter
A house needs maintenance and upkeep to function properly all year round. If your home is not ready for each season, the changing weather conditions can cause damage. By taking steps to prepare your home for winter, you will keep your family warm and comfortable and...
7 Tips to Make Moving Easier
Moving can be stressful and overwhelming, but you can simplify the process. Here are some of the best moving tips and tricks to help make your move as smooth as possible. Make moving easier for all involved when you’re well-organized and efficient. Plan and Pack Ahead...
Level Up Your Home Search with These 6 Tips to Buy a House
Buying a house is a daunting process. Finding a property that will meet your needs and is within your price range will take some work, but there are things you can do to make the search easier. Here are helpful tips to level up your search when you buy a house. To Buy...
6 Places Where Water Damage in the Home Can Occur
Water damage in the home is one of a homeowner's biggest concerns. Causes include heavy storms, plumbing malfunctions, and flaws with the property. Here are 6 places that water damage in the home is more likely to occur. Attic A leaky roof is one of the common...
6 Common Home Concerns to Discuss With Your Inspector
If you’re buying a new house, you hope that it’s a place your family will be safe and protected. To make sure your investment is a smart one, hire a home inspector to examine the property. An inspector will provide a professional assessment of all areas, systems, and...
6 Ways to Reduce Cooling Costs in the Home
During summer, managing the temperature and keeping your house cool can be costly. Running the air conditioning more often increases your electric bills significantly. Air conditioning accounts for 12% of annual home energy expenditure. Fortunately, it is possible to...
Projects that Boost Your Property Value
Whether you’re planning to list your home for sale or you intend to live in the house for years to come, choose projects that add value to the home. Upgrades and renovations are part of homeownership. However, when it comes to a good return on your investment, some...
6 Easy Ways to Be a Better Homeowner
Be a Better Homeowner A home is a big investment. To be a better homeowner, focus on improving areas of your property and getting to know the neighborhood. Establish a good rapport with your neighbors and keep up on routine maintenance to maximize the benefits of...
Why Homebuyers Need a Home Inspection
A home inspection is a vital step in the home-buying process that informs you if the house you're interested in has any significant problems. Here are five important reasons that homebuyers need a home inspection. What is a Home Inspection? A home inspection is a...
The Pros and Cons of Types of Roofing Materials
Selecting the best roofing material for your home includes knowing the various options and your budget. You'll make the right decision for your location and type of home once you learn about the pros and cons of types of roofing materials. Asphalt Shingles Asphalt...
Renovate or Relocate: How to Decide
If your current home no longer meets you and your family's needs, you may be considering a move. Another option is to renovate your house, but then you'll need to navigate living in a construction zone while the updates are made. Here are some things to think about...
5 Ways to Promote Wellness at Home
It’s flu season on top of a global pandemic, so doing everything you can to stay healthy is of ultimate importance. There are simple steps you can take to promote wellness at home. Help your family have a clean and sanitary place to live by practicing these tips....
How to Prepare Your Fireplace for Use
Whether you use your fireplace as a primary heat source or only when there is a power outage, it's an efficient way to heat your home. There's something special about the crackle of a fire in a fireplace on a cold winter night. But, to stay safe around fire, it's...
4 Ways to Organize Your Home Office
If you have an office space in your home, you know how quickly it can become cluttered. Papers, books, pens, notepads, and other miscellaneous items accumulate on your desk. Use these solutions to organize your home office. Get a File Box to Organize Your Home Office...
4 Different Types of Home Water Filters
Home water filters help to protect you and your family against contaminants in your drinking water. Before buying one, learn about the types of home water filters so you can choose the best one for your needs. You’ll need to first determine your source of water and...
Fire Safety Tips for the Home
As a homeowner, it’s important to practice fire safety in and around the house. House fires cause devastating damage every year. Plan for an emergency situation so you'll be better prepared if a fire does break out in your home. Below are some safety tips that you can...
Kitchen Remodel Ideas to Add Value to Your Home
If you are looking to add value to your home, the kitchen is a great place to start. For most homebuyers, a nice kitchen is one of their biggest priorities. Upgrading your kitchen will help you make the sale and command a higher asking price. Here are a few kitchen...
4 Summer Safety Tips for the Home
During the summer, most people spend more time having fun outdoors. Grilling, swimming, and hanging out on the deck are some favorite summer activities. However, all of these pastimes come with a safety risk. Check out these summer safety tips for the home so that you...
5 Easy Ways to Update Your Deck
Summer is coming and you will probably be spending more time outdoors with your family. Make your backyard deck a favorite place to spend time with a few improvements. Take a look at some easy ways to update your deck. Paint the Deck If your deck is small or feels...
4 Inexpensive Home Improvement Projects
As a homeowner, you take pride in your property. Maintaining a home is a lot of work and the costs add up. You want to keep your home attractive and comfortable but without spending a fortune. Here are a few inexpensive home improvement projects that are easy to...
Order an Inspection on New Construction
When building a new home, you expect the house to be built well and to high standards. You chose a builder with a great reputation and are excited to move into your new home. Hiring a home inspector may not be a top priority because you don’t expect issues with the...
3 Factors That Impact Indoor Air Quality
Various factors negatively impact indoor air quality. Mold, VOCs, and carbon monoxide are only a few. Understand the importance of clean air and how it affects your health. Learning about air quality in your home helps you know what steps to take for healthier indoor...
4 Options of Siding Materials for Your Home
Maintain your home's exterior to keep your house looking its best and boost curb appeal. When pressure-washing and re-painting fail to brighten the siding, it may be time to replace it. You have plenty of different options of siding materials for your home. Vinyl...
How to Heat Your Home Efficiently
Are you concerned about a higher home heating bill in the winter? Learn how to heat your home efficiently and save money on your utility bills. Make Sure Your Airflow isn’t Blocked Don’t overlook your vents when hanging curtains or rearranging the furniture in your...
Things to Know About Home Insulation and Ventilation
Insulation and ventilation are necessary to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. For insulation to be effective, it must have proper ventilation. This may sound a little strange; after all, isn't the point of insulation to keep outside air away?...
5 Signs of Electrical Problems at Home
You rely on your home’s electrical system for everything from keeping the lights on, cooking meals, and powering your home’s heating and cooling systems. These functions are only possible when your home’s electrical system is well-maintained and working properly....
5 Reasons to Hire a Real Estate Agent When Buying a Home
You have been saving up for a down payment to purchase a home and have been pre-approved for a mortgage. The next logical step is to hire a real estate agent. You may be wondering if it is necessary to work with an agent when buying a property. This article explains...
8 Steps to Saving Water at Home
Do you know how much water your family uses in a day? By reducing your water usage, you'll save money and preserve a natural resource. Saving water isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Preserve water to reduce the load on plumbing pipes, protect the environment, and...
What is the Life Expectancy of Appliances Around the Home?
Even homeowners who purchase state-of-the-art appliances and maintain them will have to replace them at some point. The life expectancy varies based on the type of appliance, the brand, and frequency of use. Knowing the approximate life expectancy of appliances is...
4 Grilling Safety Tips for Summer
It's the time of the year when families across the nation enjoy cooking outdoors. While grilling is a great pastime, it can also be dangerous without the proper precautions. According to the National Fire Protection Association, over 19,000 people ended up in the...
Schedule Your Home Inspection Today
CALL US
EMAIL US
REQUEST INSPECTION
Login To View Your Inspection Report