## Post-Inspection Documentation and Next Steps Record all findings for your property records, noting the location of any damage, moisture readings, alignment measurements, and photos of problem areas. Minor issues like surface rust on metal hardware, small hairline cracks in concrete, or loose surface fasteners can typically be addressed with basic DIY repairs: sand and repaint rusted metal, seal small concrete cracks with masonry sealant, and tighten loose bolts. For moderate to severe issues such as advanced rot, large structural cracks, significant post leaning, or moisture intrusion into load-bearing wood, hire a licensed structural engineer or qualified contractor to assess repair needs, as unaddressed major damage can lead to structural failure. Schedule follow-up inspections annually, or after severe weather events, heavy snow loads, or flooding that could impact support system integrity.
Informational article
How to Perform a Proper Pillar and Post Inspection for Your Property
A proper pillar and post inspection evaluates the structural integrity of load-bearing support members for elevated property features including decks, porches, carports, and raised foundations, identifying damage, wear, or code compliance issues that could lead to costly failures or preventable safety hazards. Follow this step-by-step guide to conduct a thorough, code-aligned inspection of your property’s pillar and post systems, whether you are preparing for a sale, addressing visible wear, or performing routine maintenance. ## Pre-Inspection Preparation First, assemble required tools: a bright flashlight, digital moisture meter, 4-foot spirit level, tape measure, small pry bar, work gloves, and safety glasses. Pull local residential building codes for your area, as requirements for post sizing, anchoring, and spacing vary by region, climate, and structure type. Review any existing home inspection reports, permit records, or maintenance logs for past repairs to pillar and post systems. Clear all vegetation, debris, and stored items from the base of every pillar and post to ensure full visibility and access. If you identify severe visible damage such as large vertical cracks, significant leaning, or advanced ground-level rot during preparation, consult a licensed structural inspector before proceeding to avoid safety risks. ## Full Visual and Functional Inspection ### Exterior Surface and Material Check Start at ground level and work upward for each support member. Inspect wooden posts for soft spots, dark mold stains, visible rot, termite damage, or splintering; use a pry bar to gently test small sections of suspect wood for softness, avoiding unnecessary damage to intact material. For concrete or masonry pillars, look for spalling (flaking surface material), large vertical cracks, crumbling edges, or efflorescence (white powdery residue that signals moisture intrusion). Metal posts and brackets should be checked for rust, corrosion, bent framing, or loose fasteners. Use a moisture meter to test wood surfaces for internal moisture content above 20%, which indicates hidden rot risk even if the surface appears intact. Measure the height of each post against its neighbors to identify uneven settling, a sign of shifting foundation or soil erosion under the pillar base. ### Connection and Anchoring Assessment Verify that every post is securely anchored to its supporting pillar or foundation. For wooden posts set in concrete, look for gaps between the wood and concrete, which allow water to pool and accelerate rot. For metal bracket connections, ensure all bolts, screws, and hurricane ties are tightly fastened with no missing hardware. Check that posts are aligned vertically using your spirit level; any post that is more than 1/4 inch out of plumb over a 6-foot span may indicate shifting soil, loose anchoring, or structural overload. Inspect the top connection between the post and the structure it supports, such as a deck joist or porch beam, for signs of sagging, loose fasteners, or rotated framing that could put excess stress on the support member.