Interior Inspection

QUESTION: WHAT DOES AN EXTERIOR INSPECTION INCLUDE?ANSWER: An exterior inspection evaluates the façade, walls, render, paint condition, cracks, moisture intrusion, exterior drainage, pathways, driveways, balconies, railings, steps, grading, garden areas, boundary walls, fences, gates, windows, doors, and external structural elements. It identifies cracking, damp, corrosion, poor water runoff, and construction defects.

 

QUESTION: WHY DO EXTERIOR WALLS CRACK IN CASCAIS PROPERTIES?ANSWER: Cracks often form due to settlement, thermal expansion, moisture intrusion, salt corrosion, or poor render adhesion. Wind-driven coastal rain can accelerate deterioration. An inspection identifies whether the cracks are cosmetic or structural.

 

QUESTION: WHAT CAUSES DAMP OR STAINING ON EXTERIOR WALLS?ANSWER: Damp stains are commonly caused by rain penetration, rising damp, poor waterproofing, missing drip caps, blocked gutters, or insufficient wall coating. Coastal humidity also increases moisture retention. Moisture meters confirm whether the damp is active.

 

QUESTION: WHY IS MY PAINT OR RENDER PEELING ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE HOUSE?ANSWER: Peeling occurs when moisture becomes trapped beneath the paint or render, or when the substrate was not properly sealed. UV exposure, salt air, and poor-quality paint also contribute. Inspections help identify where moisture is entering.

 

QUESTION: WHAT CAUSES WATER TO POOL AROUND MY HOUSE AFTER RAIN?ANSWER: Poor grading, blocked drains, uneven pathways, inadequate slopes, or compacted soil cause water to collect near the foundation. This can lead to rising damp or structural issues. Inspection checks all ground levels and drainage paths.

 

QUESTION: WHY DOES MY BALCONY LEAK OR SHOW SIGNS OF MOISTURE?ANSWER: Balcony leaks are often caused by cracked tiles, failed waterproofing membranes, poor drainage, or negative fall. Cascais balconies commonly suffer from long-term water exposure. Inspection identifies weak points and membrane failures.

 

QUESTION: WHAT CAUSES CORROSION ON METAL RAILINGS OR GATES?ANSWER: Coastal salt exposure quickly corrodes metal in Cascais. Poor paint protection, rust exposure, and humidity accelerate deterioration. Regular exterior inspections identify early rust before it becomes a structural concern.

 

QUESTION: WHY IS THERE MOISTURE OR ROT NEAR MY EXTERIOR DOORS OR WINDOWS?ANSWER: Moisture intrusion near doors or windows is usually caused by failed sealing, deteriorated caulking, poor installation, or wind-driven rain entering gaps. Thermal imaging helps locate hidden moisture pockets.

 

QUESTION: WHAT CAUSES MY PATHWAYS OR DRIVEWAYS TO CRACK OR LIFT?ANSWER: Cracks or lifting may result from soil movement, tree roots, poor installation, heavy traffic, or insufficient drainage. Lifting can also occur when water repeatedly pools and expands. Inspection determines the underlying cause.

 

QUESTION: WHY DOES MY BOUNDARY WALL HAVE CRACKS OR LEAN TO ONE SIDE?ANSWER: Boundary wall cracks can come from soil pressure, poor foundations, root intrusion, moisture damage, or construction defects. Leaning often indicates foundation movement. Early inspection prevents collapse risk.

 

QUESTION: HOW CAN THERMAL IMAGING HELP WITH EXTERIOR INSPECTIONS?ANSWER: Thermal imaging detects moisture behind exterior walls, insulation gaps, thermal leaks around windows, and areas where water may be penetrating. It also identifies cold spots caused by damp.

 

QUESTION: WHY DOES MOSS OR ALGAE GROW ON MY EXTERIOR SURFACES?ANSWER: Moss and algae thrive in damp, shaded, poorly ventilated areas. In coastal Cascais, humidity encourages biological growth on stone, brick, and render. Cleaning and improved drainage reduce buildup.

 

QUESTION: WHAT CAUSES MY EXTERIOR TILES OR PATIO TO BECOME LOOSE OR HOLLOW?ANSWER: Loose tiles are usually caused by water intrusion, poor adhesive, thermal expansion, or failed waterproofing. Salt air and moisture accelerate tile bond failure.

 

QUESTION: HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET AN EXTERIOR INSPECTION IN CASCAIS?ANSWER: Every 1–2 years, especially in coastal areas exposed to wind, rain, and salt corrosion. Regular inspections help prevent damp, structural issues, and water damage.

 

QUESTION: SHOULD I GET AN EXTERIOR INSPECTION BEFORE BUYING A HOME?ANSWER: Yes. Exterior repairs can be expensive. A pre-purchase inspection reveals damp, cracking, drainage issues, balcony leaks, boundary wall problems, and waterproofing failures before you commit.