Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This image was taken during a deck inspection. It shows a screwdriver sticking out of an area that was affected with wood rot. I always state that “All wood rot should be removed and replaced with new, like material”. I always try to provide at least three separate images of this type of specific defect and recommend further consultation by a licensed contractor to determine extent and repair/replace as needed.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Related to the article: Deck Receptacles… I learned about the requirement for a receptacle to be within the perimeter of a balcony, deck or porch that is accessible from within the home. This was new to me, but I will remember it during future inspections and make notes accordingly. It is interesting to know the lack of a receptacle could be considered a safety concern, due to the typical use of an extension cord.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Decks are often times built by home owners or handymen that do not follow common building standards. Many safety defects may be present. Some of the common safety defects are improper ledger attachment, improper support posts, railing height, baluster spacing, graspable hand rails, improper nailing/support. Special attention to design and building standards should be made when inspecting decks.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Entire deck structure is made of unprotected wood. As the result there is extensive moisture damage all around. Recommend replacing the damaged members and protecting the wood. Furthermore, the columns are in contact with the ground and there is evidence of moisture damage, as well.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read Inspecting a Deck, Illustrated by Nick Gromicko. The article started with some alarming statistics, especially how majority of the decks (60%) are not safe! It further goes into some of the deck failures and what tools inspectors need to use to inspect such structures.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Deck railing posts are notched and not attached with deck post metal fasteners with through bolts. There are several railing sections that are weak and leaning out. The fasteners used are insufficient and may lead to railing failure.The stair treads are between solid stringers and do not have ledger boards or metal hangers.Further inspection needed by a qualified contractor
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The joists and ledger board of the deck are rotting and could cause total deck failure at any time. I recommend you do not walk on this deck and that a qualified deck company make repair to the deck and evaluate the structure of the home further at the point of attachment.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The joists and ledger board of the deck are rotting and could cause total deck failure at any time. I recommend you do not walk on this deck and that a qualified deck company make repair to the deck and evaluate the structure of the home further at the point of attachment.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Chimney flashing. Proper chimney flashing depending on width should include apron flashing on the downslope ,step flashing under each course of shingle along sides of chimney,head flashing at top slope ,and all important properly installed counter flashing to keep water from going behind the top of the step flashing at chimney.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This photo was taken during an inspection report I recently produced. I reported it as missing properly installed and spaced balusters. I noted it was a potential safety issue. made recommendation for corrections by qualified contractor. This course has taught me that the balusters need to be “properly” installed. I was not aware of the beveling of the balusters as a requirement, or best practice.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I learned from this course that the deck ledger board should have flashing both above and below the board. I always have been looking for the above flashing. the “Z” and counter-flashing both apply to the lower, underside flashing as well. also, that there should be no use of washers for spacing as that can compromise the integrity of the deck support to the ledger.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
spring and summer are good times for cool outs with family and friends. so I think it seems to be important that the deck railings are rated correctly. It seems like people like to lean on the railings with their drinks and talk. The railings should be rated for safety
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the article about inspecting garages I spend alot of time in my garage And I have done some work to it like electrical I done research on how to do something in the garage so it doesnt end up being something unsafe or hazardous
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
One safety issue most people do not think about when building a deck is lighting for the deck stairs. According to internachi, “Decks rarely have light sources that cover the entire stairway. Any unlit stairway is a safety issue.” By adding this in our reports, we are education the importance of lightning.
Research & Writing Assignment:
How do you double, triple or even quadruple your sales as a home inspector? The first step is to get past clients to refer to you? Write up an email or make a short video and send to all your past clients, and ask them to send to anyone they know what may need your services.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This image shows flashing on a ledger board, which must be securely attached to a rim joist. Flashing above and below the ledger board are needed to shed moisture and prevent deterioration, which leads to structural weakness. I often see ledger boards without flashing and call it out as a deficiency.
Research & Writing Assignment:
In regard to deck post connections, I rarely see them with adequate fasteners. Nails and bolts/screws that are less than one half inch in diameter are not allowed. Ideally the posts should be un-notched and even used with post connector hardware.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
With over 2 million decks built every year, it may come as a surprise that less than half of them can be considered “safe”. The leading cause of deck collapse is the ledger board separating form the house. A ledger board should be supported by the proper number of lag screws of through that can be determined using the following formula, although determining the proper number of fasteners is beyond the standards of practice. On-center spacing of ledger fasteners in inches = 100 joist length in feet.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Decking boards should not be installed as tight as possible. They should be spaced 1/8 inch apart to allow for proper drainage. The butt joints of decking boards should be staggered so that they are not all over the same joist and all decking boards should bear on a minimum of 4 joists.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The inspector noted the deck ledger was not of appropriate material, as a 4x4 post was in use as the ledger board. Additionally, use of this material raises question regarding deck attachment to structure. Recommend consulting a licensed contractor for review and assessment.
