Welcome back! In our last article we covered the friendly warning signs — the ones your house politely shows you. Like changing your oil, a little annoying but not that big a deal. This article? We’re diving into the hidden, structural, sneaky problems that your home absolutely does not want you to find. Luckily for you, Strouse Home Inspections is built on finding all the things the house hopes we miss.
Sagging Decks (or Decks Built Too High)
If your deck bounces more than the check you wrote for it, that’s a sign.
And if your deck is built level with the door?
Oh boy. Moisture says thank you for the direct entry!
Why it’s bad:
- Rot and water intrusion
- Trip hazards
- Deck collapse risk
- Bugs LOVE the setup
We always check the ledger board, support posts, and joists. Your deck should not behave like a hammock.
Joist Hangers Installed Into Stucco
Yes… this happens. Yes… it’s as bad as it sounds.
Why it’s bad:
- Stucco isn’t structural
- Moisture collects behind it
- The entire deck or balcony can fail
In the inspection world, we call this: “Absolutely Not.”
Rusted or Missing Chimney Flashing
Flashings are the roof’s bodyguards.
When they rust, loosen, or disappear (yes, disappear!), water sneaks right in.
Why it’s bad:
- Rotten roof sheathing
- Mold in attic
- Chimney leaks
- Ceiling damage
Efflorescence on Chimney Brick
Looks like pretty white frost.
Is actually your chimney crying.
Why it’s bad:
- Means water is penetrating the masonry
- Indicates damaged crowns, cracks, or missing flue caps
- Leads to spalling brick and structural weakness
Cracked Chimney Liner
The chimney liner’s job?
Keep fire where fire belongs.
When it cracks, heat and smoke can escape into the surrounding structure.
Why it’s bad:
- Fire risk
- Masonry deterioration
- Carbon monoxide leaks
We check this with specialized tools because cracked liners rarely announce themselves politely.
Hidden Mold in the Roof-to-Wall Connection
This spot is the honey hole for moisture.
If we see mold here, we already know there’s a bigger issue behind the scenes.
Your House Talks.
Strouse Home Inspections Translates.
Whether it's “hey, look at this!” or “please don’t collapse,” we know exactly what to look for and why it matters. Because homes don’t fail suddenly.
They fail slowly, quietly, and expensively. Unless, of course, you call us.
Whether it’s before holiday guests arrive or as a New Year “let’s not let the house surprise us again” resolution —
Strouse Home Inspections will protect your home, your wallet, and your sanity.
By Strouse Home Inspections Staff 12-1-2025
