Patio - Typical Cracking

Cracking was noted in the patio surface at the time of the inspection. While some amount of surface cracking is normal and to be expected, it is recommended that ALL cracks be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion into the cracks/voids. Moisture intrusion into these cracks/voids can accelerate the deterioration of the patio surface.

Patio - Moderate Cracking

Moderate to significant areas of cracking were noted in the patio at the time of the inspection. While some amount of surface cracking is normal and to be expected, the cracking noted during the inspection was in the inspector’s opinion beyond what is considered typical. It is recommended that a qualified contractor further evaluate to determine, if possible, the cause of the cracking and to then make a repair recommendation. Additionally, ALL cracks will need to be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion into the cracks/voids. Moisture intrusion into these areas can accelerate the deterioration of the patio surface.

Patio - Moderate Cracking – Tree Roots

Moderate to significant areas of cracking were noted in the patio at the time of the inspection. While some amount of surface cracking is normal and to be expected, the cracking noted during the inspection was in the inspector’s opinion beyond what is considered typical and appears to be the result of uplift from tree roots below the surface. It is recommended that a qualified contractor further evaluate and then make a repair recommendation. Additionally, ALL cracks will need to be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion in the cracks/voids. Moisture intrusion into these areas can accelerate the deterioration of the patio surface.

Patio - Heavily Deteriorated Surface

Areas of the patio surface were heavily deteriorated at the time of the inspection. It is likely that these areas will need extensive repair or total replacement. It is recommended that a qualified contractor be asked to create an action plan for repairs with cost estimates so that the buyer can make an educated and informed buying decision.

Patio - Gap Between Driveway and Home

A gap was noted between the patio and the home’s exterior wall. This is often seen as a result of past settlement or structural movement. These gaps should be sealed/filled using mortar or an appropriate exterior rated sealant to prevent moisture intrusion into the voids which will accelerate masonry deterioration and/or settlement. It is recommended that a qualified masonry contractor make the necessary repairs.

Patio Grade Slope Toward Home – Monitor

Upon inspection of the lot grading around the home, the patio had portions that were sloped towards the home and as a result there is the potential for moisture to pool against the home’s foundation wall. At the time of the inspection, no evidence of moisture intrusion was noted, but it is recommended that the water runoff in this area be closely monitored after periods of heavy rain.

Patio Grade Slope Toward Home - Take Action

Upon inspection of the lot grading around the home, the patio had portions that were sloped towards the home and as a result there is the potential for moisture to pool against the home’s foundation wall. At the time of the inspection, evidence of past moisture intrusion was noted, it is recommended that a qualified contractor be asked to further evaluate the lot grading and create an action plan for repairs.

Patio - Soil Erosion

Soil erosion was noted along the patio edge at the indicated location(s). Although this issue/defect is common, if left unaddressed the erosion can lead to settling, cracks, or even failure of the patio surface. It is recommended that the soil void be filled with soil or gravel and compacted once the underlying moisture/rainwater runoff issue has been resolved by a qualified contractor.

Patio - Loose Stone/Pavers

Loose stones or pavers were noted on the patio surface at the time of the inspection. As this is a potential safety hazard, it is recommended that a qualified contractor make the necessary repairs.

Patio -Trip Hazard

An irregular surface variation/trip hazard was noted on the patio at the time of the inspection. As this is a potential safety hazard, it is recommended that a qualified contractor make the necessary repairs.

Patio - Non-Professional Installation of Roof / Cover

A roof or covering had been added to the patio, the construction of this roof/covering appeared to non-professional in methods and or materials. It is recommended that a qualified contractor be asked to further evaluate and if needed create an action plan for repairs.

Patio – Water Pooling

Water was noted to be pooling on the patio surface at the time of the inspection. Modern building standards recommend that a patio be constructed with a slight slope to allow rainwater to flow off the patio surface (Away from the home’s foundation). At the discretion of the buyer a qualified contractor could be asked to further evaluate and make a repair recommendation.

Patio – Staining from Water Pooling

Staining was noted on the patio surface at the time of the inspection that suggests that water has been pooling on the patio surface. Modern building standards recommend that a patio be constructed with a slight slope to allow rainwater to flow off the patio surface (Away from the home’s foundation). At the discretion of the buyer a qualified contractor could be asked to further evaluate and make a repair recommendation.