Awl
Now what in the world are you going to use an ice pick
for during a home inspection. Well another name for an ice pick is an
awl. This tool is going to be used primarily to check for wood rot or
damage.
You simply press the pointed end of the awl into the wood and if it
slides right hand you have some wood damage. Now on the other hand if
you can not press it more than a 1/4 inch into the wood, then more than
likely there is no surface wood damage.
This does not necessarily mean the back of the wood is not damaged. The
awl will help you locate termite damage and wood rot quite easily.
Please remember this tool has a sharp point on it and can cause extreme
pain if used improperly. Try to keep the awl in a safe place when not in
use.