Residential foundation insulation can significantly reduce heat loss from a conditioned basement. Up to 50% of a homes heat loss can come from a basement wall that is not insulated. Insulating the foundation can increase comfort, lower heating cost and prevent moisture intrusion that causes mold and mildew.
his foundation was impenetrable. It didn’t weep or crack or allow for water penetration. I’m in a class with no ability to take a picture of anything. You should really take this part out of this course for states where they require you to do this in a class room setting…
Always check with your local jurisdiction before doing any major upgrades to your home. Many times permits are required to preform this remodels or changes. Always consult with a trained professional before moving wires, water fixtures or structural components of your home
in this image is a foundation wall with no apparent damage. no evidence of heaving due to frost, no evidence from improper back fill, and no evidence of moisture infiltration. although it is painted ther is no signs of peeling or flaking
it this course I learned about different types of foundations. to include block, poured, piers, and ways to prevent water infiltration on these different types of foundations. damage can be caused by improper backfill, moist soil and frost heaving. settlement can also cause structural issues
In this photo we can see that the cement has several cracks in it and is now convex in the center. This cracking is most likely an indication of settlement. This indication of settlement may be a clue as to what is going on with the foundation as well.
In this diagram of a patio pier we learn that the pier should be isolated from the concrete patio slab by one inch of felt. In addition the top of the pier should extend four inches above the slab and the bottom of the pier should terminate below the frost line.
The most common ground anchors are auger, or helix-type, systems. They are applicable to several types of piers, and feature anchors with a single- or double-helix base, and an optional lateral stabilizer near the anchor head. The helix is a 4- or 6-inch circular plate in the shape of a short spiral. Steel straps hold the home’s chassis to the anchor heads.
The most common ground anchors are auger, or helix-type, systems. They are applicable to several types of piers, and feature anchors with a single- or double-helix base, and an optional lateral stabilizer near the anchor head. The helix is a 4- or 6-inch circular plate in the shape of a short spiral.
In the picture shown above there is an observation of foundation cracks in the brick wall. We know these to be foundation cracks because this problem exists within the house and on the outside of on the driveway as you walk-up.
The picture here is of a home I had inspected. This is a crack in the seam of the drywall in the ceiling. This is typical settlement due to the age of the home. Client had been advised to have a certified contractor to come in and make repairs.
I read an article on structural wood design on a house.addresses elements of above-grade structural systems in residential construction. The residential construction material most commonly used above grade in North America is light-frame wood; therefore, we’ll focus on structural design that specifies standard-dimension lumber and structural wood panels.
I had chosen the causes of death in the US. It is surprising to me that Radon is not higher on the list. It is labeled as #13 which is still very much a concern. But I would assume that a percentage of the smoking related deaths would be related to radon as well. Due to the byproducts of radon attaching itself to the smoke itself and infecting the lungs.
The attached image of a bowed concrete masonry unit foundation wall shows signs of significant failures. There are signs of water problems and efflorescence throughout the wall and including the entire height. This foundation wall needs immediate attention as the CMU pier has been structurally compromised.
The gallery I reviewed covered exterior / foundations. Many images of failure types were depicted. I learned the different types of cracking in CMU or CIP walls. It was interesting to learn the difference between bowed and sweeping in foundation was movement.
Chimney is in good condition. No spalling of mortar or brick is observed. There are water marks running down the side. This appears to be from a failure in the counter/step flashing around the chimney penetration. Recommend having a qualified contractor repair or replace flashings. Unable to enter attic space to see if there are any signs of water damage.
The article “Inspection Reports: Present or Past Tense?” points out a very crucial report writing criteria. The inspectors observations are and should be referred to in only a past tense manner. All inspection observations are at the time or moment of the inspection. In order to stay out of a potential change in those observations it is necessary to make sure that the report only references that moment not a present moment.
The picture is of an exterior wall of a concrete block structure. The crack follows the block pattern on a diagonal up towards a window opening. It appears to be caused by settlement of the foundation. The cracks are older and no evidence of recent widening.
This is a picture of a vertical crack caused by settling during construction. The crack has not changed in 3 years. Also the brick veneer has not cracked outside nor is there any signs in the concrete floor of cracks or the drywall in the rooms above this area.
Insulating basement walls should be common practice but in my area we are starting to see more slab on grade construction. It is very helpful to learn that slab edges should be protected with exterior foam insulation around the exterior and should have treated plate at all floors.