I have a 95 EX also and it is kinda noisy. Yes, it is just a little more noisy when cold.

If you fear a sticking lifter, dump the oil and refill but substitute a quart of oil for Marvel Mystery Oil. Run it for 1,000 to 1,500 miles. Dump it again.

MMO will clean out the engine, clean the lifters and rest of the valve train.

When you get an extra $50, it probably wouldn't hurt to have the valves adjusted.

These are some very strong, reliable engines from what I have experienced. I've only had mine for 4,000 miles, but it has impressed me. I just had a timing belt job done on it and the mechanics said that the VTEC's are noisier than most of the regular Honda engines.