Beware the Dangers of ZIP System Exterior Sheathing
As construction experts, we notice when new home construction is going up in our region of Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. And one thing we’ve [...]
What is an Overdrilled Beam or Stud?
Overdrilled Beam When Först Consulting Group is performing a detailed inspection, one of the things we can cite as a code violation is [...]
Common Issues With Metal Roofs
Although shingled roofs are most common, there are still a number of people who prefer a metal. A metal roof is beautiful, durable and requires [...]
Is Your Home Builder Taking Shortcuts?
When you build a new home, you trust the contractor you hired. After all, you vetted them by checking their references, looking up their service [...]
Virginia Home Inspector Specializing in Construction Problems
One of our clients was remodeling her home when she started having problems with the contractor. His prices kept going up, but the work didn’t [...]
2018 ICC Building Code Revisions
Every two years, the International Code Council, or ICC, issues revised editions of its code books updated to include current and accurate code information, with [...]
Hot Spot Testing Through Thermal Imaging
Do you know what a “hot spot” is? And no, it doesn’t refer to the latest after-hours club or newest restaurant opening. A hot spot, [...]
How to Address a Renovation Construction Dispute
There was an informative article in the Washington Post (19 April 2018) by Elisabeth Leamy, host of the podcast “Easy Money,” titled “How to Address a Dispute [...]
Electrical Outlet Orientation—Ground Pin Up or Down?
Installation of electrical components such as the electrical outlet and electrical box is strictly regulated in order to protect consumers and homeowners. Ground Pin Orientation [...]
Improper Cabinet Installation Can Cause Injury
When cabinetry is not installed correctly it opens the doors for possible, and potentially, serious injury. Whether installed in a home or an office, proper [...]