HomePenguin LLC

07/15/2022

“Keeping Families Close” is the focus of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Richmond. They provide families with an ill child, what they need most - each other.
The Ronald McDonald House in Richmond VA was in need of sound advice on the condition of their facility here in the Richmond area. HomePenguin Home Inspection, Owner Dan Fink felt the need to respond and gladly volunteered consultation services.
The sincerest thanks to the staff at the Ronald McDonald House of Richmond for all you do for our community here in central Virginia.
Thank you for allowing HomePenguin Home Inspection to support your cause.

04/10/2022

Most homeowners never know the cause fungal growth at the roof and trim area.

It is a health concern, and can cause secondary building material damage. The cause of fungal growth at the soffit is poor soffit and attic venting, a leaky gutter or a combination of things.

HomePenguin Home Inspection brings light to these issues by helping homeowners understand the root cause of the issue. This equates to long-term savings and added value to your home.

Get on our schedule today by booking an appointment on our website. A homeowner can get a consultation or home inspection anytime. Protect your investment today by getting on our calendar.

01/28/2022

A faulty light switch will spark or make a strange sound when flipped on. The internal parts in a light switch can wear out and get over-heated. This is an electrical shock or fire hazard. Get this repaired by a licensed electrician.
HomePenguin Home Inspection – “Helping you add value to your home through discovery and knowledge.”

01/19/2022

Recently during a Home Repair & Maintenance Consultation in Brandermill, a large clump of leaves was found in a roof valley. The client was under the impression that leaves are harmless, because they blow off by the wind. Leaves and branches rarely blow off a roof by the wind. Leaves get trapped and absorb water, cling to a roof, attract pest, rot, cause the roof to prematurely deteriorate and leak. The remedy? Have the roof cleaned by a licensed contractor / handyman.

01/17/2022

An older asphalt roof will have “granule loss”. Granules are tiny stones or minerals, bound to the top of an asphalt shingle. Granules reflect sunlight and heat away from the roof. Foot traffic or extreme weather can cause some granule loss. Granule loss is normal on a new roof and will continue to drop granules as the roof ages. Asphalt shingles can last 20-28 years if the roof is well vented. Once asphalt shingles lose a large number of granules have them replaced, to reduce the chances of a leaky roof.

12/21/2021

The rubber hose on my wash machine looks strange. Should I be concerned?

Yes, you should be concerned. A wash machine hose leak can cause water damage to walls and flooring. Rubber hoses on a wash machine become brittle, bulge, crack and eventually leak. If you detect a leak, turn off the water at the wash machine and replace both hoses. The water shut-off values are normally located behind the wash machine.

It is recommended to replace wash machine hoses every 3 to 5 years. Replacement hoses are made with rubber or braided steel. Braided steel hoses are considered stronger and are preferred by most plumbers. This is a DIY project or hire a licensed handyman/plumber.

12/19/2021

A crack in your driveway or walkway will only get worse with time. As rainwater fills the crack, it can wash away the base grade and sub grade rock. This will weaken the crack even more. Repairs can be made DIY or hire a licensed handyman. Also plan this project for the warmer seasons.

To repair a crack in concrete you can use flexible caulking designed for concrete driveways or a concrete patch.I am using Slab to fill a wide and deep crack...

12/18/2021

Is a dishwasher drip pan necessary?

A homeowner cannot predict a dishwasher leak. A dishwasher drip pan is a low-cost device that sits under the dishwasher. It helps a homeowner see water leaks early on, by directing the water to the front of the dishwasher, where it can be seen on the floor.

After inspecting several homes in Chesterfield, I noticed many homes did not have a dishwasher drip pan. A dishwasher can leak for months without notice. It can trickle water into the walls, cabinets, and flooring. The water causes the wood around the dishwasher to eventually rot. Causing thousands of dollars in repair.

It does not matter if your dishwasher is old or new it can still develop a leak. Consider installing a dishwasher drip pan. It can be purchased online or from a local hardware store. It’s easy to install or have your handyman install it for you.