Building components and systems can fail in a variety of ways. Some may be obvious, while others can be challenging to figure out. Building dysfunction can result in high energy use, discomfort, deterioration of part of the structure or an indoor air quality problem that may threaten the health or safety of occupants.

Whether performing a routine checkup or trying to solve a complex environmental mystery, we employ a medical model, treating the building as a patient. After gathering pertinent background information we conduct a thorough inspection of the building inside and out, including attached zones like the crawl space, attic and garage. We use state-of-the-art techniques to test and analyze how the house functions as a complete system. As appropriate and useful, we may conduct the following test procedures:

Measure and log indoor humidity and temperatures at various locations Read surface temperature using infra-red thermometers Examine moisture content of building materials Take air or dust samples for microscopic analysis Get total VOC (volatile organic compound) readings Conduct combustion safety and carbon monoxide testing Determine air and duct leakage of building envelope Perform pressure diagnostics, including zone connectivity and pressure imbalance tests

Based on testing and inspection results, we develop a hypothesis identifying which systems or components are dysfunctional and how multiple failures may be interdependent. We provide a prioritized list of recommended improvements and a list of specialty service providers to do the work. In a few weeks we call back to check on your progress and make sure our recommended solutions are achieving the intended result.