Bourbonnais, Illinois, is a charming town with a vibrant community spirit that warmly welcomes newcomers and visitors alike. Its dynamic mix of tradition and modernity makes it a fantastic place to call home. Situated in the heart of Kankakee County, Bourbonnais beautifully balances the quaintness of small-town life with the conveniences of urban living.
The town is rich in greenery and outdoor activities, with Perry Farm Park taking center stage. This
delightful park offers scenic trails for walking, jogging, and cycling, and its open spaces are perfect for family picnics and community gatherings. Residents take immense pride in their local events, and the annual Friendship Festival is a testament to the town's lively social calendar, featuring parades, live music, and an array of activities that foster a sense of unity.
For education and knowledge seekers, the presence of Olivet Nazarene University adds an enriching
Bourbonnais, Illinois
4 | HelloBourbonnais, Illinois • Winter Issue
Hello Bourbonnais, Illinois • Winter Issue |5
academic dimension to the town, drawing youthful energy and cultural diversity. The university hosts a variety of events open to the public, integrating its students with the broader community. The warmth of the people here is matched only by the warm summer days, making Bourbonnais a place where neighbors become friends and every day feels just a bit brighter.
Bourbonnais, Illinois
Bourbonnais, Illinois: Where Community Spirit Thrives
Bourbonnais, Illinois, is a charming town with a vibrant community spirit that warmly welcomes newcomers and visitors alike. Its dynamic mix of tradition and modernity makes it a fantastic place to call home. Situated in the heart of Kankakee County, Bourbonnais beautifully balances the quaintness of small-town life with the conveniences of urban living.
The town is rich in greenery and outdoor activities, with Perry Farm Park taking center stage. This delightful park offers scenic trails for walking, jogging, and cycling, and its open spaces are perfect for family picnics and community gatherings. Residents take immense pride in their local events, and the annual Friendship Festival is a testament to the town's lively social calendar, featuring parades, live music, and an array of activities that foster a sense of unity.
For education and knowledge seekers, the presence of Olivet Nazarene University adds an enriching academic dimension to the town, drawing youthful energy and cultural diversity. The university hosts a variety of events open to the public, integrating its students with the broader community. The warmth of the people here is matched only by the warm summer days, making Bourbonnais a place where neighbors become friends and every day feels just a bit brighter.
Unseen, Unchecked, Unsafe: What Crawlspaces Can Hide
The crawlspace is one of the most forgotten areas in a home. Tucked beneath floors and out of sight, it rarely draws attention until something goes wrong. But this dark and cramped space plays a much larger role in a home's health than many homeowners realize.Crawlspaces are prone to moisture buildup,
especially if not properly ventilated. Damp environments create ideal conditions for mold growth, wood rot, and pest infestations. Rodents, insects, and even snakes can take up residence, often undetected. Insulation in crawlspaces can sag or fall, reducing energy efficiency and impacting indoor air quality.
6 | HelloBourbonnais, Illinois • Winter Issue
Unseen, Unchecked, Unsafe: What Crawlspaces Can Hide
The crawlspace is one of the most forgotten areas in a home. Tucked beneath floors and out of sight, it rarely draws attention until something goes wrong. But this dark and cramped space plays a much larger role in a home's health than many homeowners realize.
Crawlspaces are prone to moisture buildup, especially if not properly ventilated. Damp environments create ideal conditions for mold growth, wood rot, and pest infestations. Rodents, insects, and even snakes can take up residence, often undetected. Insulation in crawlspaces can sag or fall, reducing energy efficiency and impacting indoor air quality.
Regular inspection of crawlspaces can prevent widespread and expensive damage to a home’s core systems. Problems that start below the home often work their way up. Moisture from below can warp hardwood floors, affect framing, and compromise the structure.
Home inspectors often find signs of long-standing issues in crawlspaces. Leaking pipes, unsealed vents, or disconnected ductwork can go unnoticed for years. Even electrical hazards may exist, especially in older homes where wires were added without permits or oversight.
Because crawlspaces are difficult to access, homeowners may avoid them entirely. But neglecting this area doesn't make the problems go away; it only delays the inevitable repairs. A routine inspection conducted by a professional can help catch small issues before they become big expenses. For homeowners preparing to sell, addressing the crawlspace early can also reduce hiccups during buyer inspections.
In some homes, the crawlspace is where plumbing, HVAC systems, and electrical wiring run. That makes it a vital part of the home’s infrastructure. A compromised crawlspace impacts air quality, energy usage, and long-term safety.
Taking time to inspect this hidden zone at least once a year, or when buying a home, can protect your investment and peace of mind. The crawlspace might be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind.
Luke Anglea
crawlspaces. Leaking pipes, unsealed vents, or disconnected ductwork can go unnoticed for years. Even electrical hazards may exist, especially in older homes where wires were added without permits or oversight.Because crawlspaces are difficult to access, homeowners may avoid them entirely. But neglecting this area doesn't make the problems go away; it only delays the inevitable repairs. A routine inspection conducted by a professional can help catch small issues before they become big expenses. For homeowners preparing to sell, addressing the crawlspace early can also reduce hiccups during buyer inspections.In some homes, the...
Regular inspection of crawlspaces can prevent widespread and expensive damage to a home’s core systems. Problems that start below the home often work their way up. Moisture from below can warp hardwood floors, affect framing, and compromise the structure.Home inspectors often find signs of long-standing issues in
Regular inspection of crawlspaces can prevent widespread and expensive damage to a home’s core systems.
About the Author
Luke Anglea is SLS Home Inspections’ owner and lead inspector. Luke brings his naturally analytical mindset to home inspections along with great attention to detail. When he is not inspecting houses he enjoys hiking, reading and traveling with his family. Luke lives in Bourbonnais, IL with his wife Jessica and their four sons.
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Bourbonnais, Illinois
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Hello Bourbonnais, Illinois • Winter Issue |9
A Beacon of Economic Growth
In the heart of Kankakee County, Bourbonnais, Illinois, is charting a dynamic path in economic development. This charming village,
known for its blend of historic character and modern ventures, has emerged as a hotspot for economic growth and innovation, making waves across the region. Thanks to its strategic initiatives, businesses thrive and community spirit blossoms.
Bourbonnais is buzzing with opportunities, driven by a robust focus on infrastructure improvements and strategic partnerships. The local government and civic leaders have collaboratively fostered a business-friendly environment, attracting both startups and established enterprises. This commitment has resulted in a diverse marketplace, where new ideas can flourish alongside traditional businesses. The rich educational environment nurtured by Olivet Nazarene University adds an intellectual edge, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to meet modern challenges.
The revitalized downtown area embodies the spirit of renewal, with thriving local shops and eateries providing vibrant spots for community engagement while supporting local entrepreneurs. Investment in technology and sustainable practices emphasizes Bourbonnais's forward-thinking philosophy, ensuring that the village remains a beacon for future generations.
In Bourbonnais, economic development is not just about numbers; it's about creating a sustainable and inclusive future. The excitement in this village is palpable, making...
Bourbonnais, Illinois
Bourbonnais, Illinois: A Beacon of Economic Growth
In the heart of Kankakee County, Bourbonnais, Illinois, is charting a dynamic path in economic development. This charming village, known for its blend of historic character and modern ventures, has emerged as a hotspot for economic growth and innovation, making waves across the region. Thanks to its strategic initiatives, businesses thrive and community spirit blossoms.
Bourbonnais is buzzing with opportunities, driven by a robust focus on infrastructure improvements and strategic partnerships. The local government and civic leaders have collaboratively fostered a business-friendly environment, attracting both startups and established enterprises. This commitment has resulted in a diverse marketplace, where new ideas can flourish alongside traditional businesses. The rich educational environment nurtured by Olivet Nazarene University adds an intellectual edge, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to meet modern challenges.
The revitalized downtown area embodies the spirit of renewal, with thriving local shops and eateries providing vibrant spots for community engagement while supporting local entrepreneurs. Investment in technology and sustainable practices emphasizes Bourbonnais's forward-thinking philosophy, ensuring that the village remains a beacon for future generations.
In Bourbonnais, economic development is not just about numbers; it's about creating a sustainable and inclusive future. The excitement in this village is palpable, making it a shining example of how proactive planning and community involvement can lead to a prosperous and promising tomorrow.
