Tom Pelletier, Author at Alpha Building Inspections

Basement

Cellar vs Basement Maintenance and Common Issues

Many people use "cellar" vs "basement" as if they mean the same thing. In some homes, they overlap in function. But when it comes to structure, value, and maintenance, a cellar is not just a…

Tom PelletierAugust 20, 2025

Home Construction

An Inspector’s Take on EIFS Construction Homes

EIFS, short for Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, is a siding option that has gained popularity for its clean look and energy-saving benefits. From the street, it can be hard to tell whether an EIFS-clad…

Tom PelletierAugust 13, 2025

Home Maintenance

How Much Weight Can Drywall Safely Hold?

Drywall is in nearly every home, but most people don’t think about its limits until they try to hang something on it. Whether you're mounting a TV, putting up shelves, or adding a heavy mirror,…

Tom PelletierJuly 24, 2025

Home Construction Home Inspections

What a Poor Drywall Finish Can Mean for the Whole Building

When people walk into a home or commercial space, the finish on the drywall and paint are one of the first things they see. Clean lines and smooth finishes give the impression that a building…

Tom PelletierJuly 10, 2025

Real Estate

A Guide to Selecting and Placing House Address Numerals

Your house address numerals help first responders find you quickly, guide guests using GPS, and shape the first impression buyers have of your property. In New England, where winding roads, snowbanks, and tall trees are…

Tom PelletierJune 12, 2025

Home Maintenance

Are Houses With Wrap-Around Porches Harder to Maintain?

More Porch, More Problems? Not Necessarily. Wrap-around porches are a New England favorite featured on plenty of houses. They boost curb appeal, offer space to relax, and give your home a classic, welcoming look. But…

Tom PelletierMay 14, 2025

Appliances

Why Does My Dishwasher Smell Even After Cleaning?

Your dishwasher is supposed to clean, not smell. But if your dishwasher smells even after you’ve scrubbed it down, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that many homeowners run into, and it usually…

Tom PelletierApril 30, 2025

Home Maintenance

The Ultimate Last-Minute House Maintenance Checklist

Life gets busy, and it’s easy for upkeep tasks to slip through the cracks. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a full weekend or a long to-do list to get your house back…

Tom PelletierApril 18, 2025

Home Maintenance Real Estate

Easy Ways to Remove Scratches From Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are known for their beauty and durability, but even the toughest finishes can show signs of wear over time. Everyday life (like sliding furniture, pets running around, or even a bit of grit…

Tom PelletierApril 3, 2025

Home Inspections Real Estate

7 Things to Know as a First-Time Massachusetts Home Buyer

As a first-time Massachusetts home buyer, it's exciting and fast-moving. There’s a lot more involved than picking the right location and getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Many homes in the state—especially older ones—come with hidden…

Tom PelletierMarch 20, 2025

Tom Pelletier

Cellar vs Basement Maintenance and Common Issues

An Inspector’s Take on EIFS Construction Homes

How Much Weight Can Drywall Safely Hold?

What a Poor Drywall Finish Can Mean for the Whole Building

A Guide to Selecting and Placing House Address Numerals

Are Houses With Wrap-Around Porches Harder to Maintain?

Why Does My Dishwasher Smell Even After Cleaning?

The Ultimate Last-Minute House Maintenance Checklist

Easy Ways to Remove Scratches From Hardwood Floors

7 Things to Know as a First-Time Massachusetts Home Buyer

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