Research & Writing Assignment:
When inspecting a chimney an inspector must first observe the overall structure to determine a satisfactory approach for gaining access to the roof surface adjacent to the chimney . Check the height to make sure it is at two feet above any roof surface within ten feet. Next check the flashing around the chimney for proper installation . Also check the cap and flue to make sure that they are in operable condition.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
the photo that I attached is a vapor barrier. a vapor barrier is important to keep the home safe from moisture intrusion. a vapor barrier is also important to the occupants health. with out a barrier the would be severe moisture damage
Research & Writing Assignment:
the article that I read was about ladder safety. ladder safety is essential to every home inspector and roofer and possibly to the ‘do it yourself home owner’. ladders can be very dangerous and after reading this artivcle I am confident I can walk a ladder safely
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
In this picture I tried to get a clear shot of the straps for the trailer. The straps here are spaced six feet apart and connected to helix anchors. In the past, I have seen these anchors sticking up to two feet above the ground. However, I am happy to state that these anchors are fully planted to provide the most strength to keep the trailer in place.
Research & Writing Assignment:
In the photo titled “Correct Hollow Block Support,” we find that the blocks should be stacked with the holes verticle. The reasoning for this would be for maximum strength and stability. It will also prevent pests and critters from nesting within them.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The lack of an adequate drainage system around the perimeter of the foundation increases the possibility of water entry into the basement or crawl space. However, it is often difficult if not impossible to actually view the drainage system. Thus, it’s very important to carefully evaluate the interior spaces of the basement and or the crawlspace for signs of water or moisture entry. If signs are found such as active water, significant staining, mold orders and elevated moisture content in absorbent materials (as determined using a moisture meter) this will need to be noted as a defect in the Inspection Report.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The lack of an adequate drainage system around the perimeter of the foundation increases the possibility of water entry into the basement or crawl space. However, it is often difficult if not impossible to actually view the drainage system. Thus, it’s very important to carefully evaluate the interior spaces of the basement and or the crawlspace for signs of water or moisture entry. If signs are found such as active water, significant staining, mold orders and elevated moisture content in absorbent materials (as determined using a moisture meter) this will need to be noted as a defect in the Inspection Report.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Inspection/writing assignment:
Here you can see a poured foundation wall with concrete block and mortar chimney base. Both walls appear to be in excellent condition. The mortar shows no signs of damage or structural issues, the poured concrete wall is vertical, no bowing indicating signs of structural compromise. There is also no sign of water damage indicating proper drainage and sloping away from the house.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Using insulation on your foundation can significantly reduce your heat loss, which in turn will increase your energy efficiency by almost 50%. When using insulation on the exterior it also works as a barrier for unwanted insects (i.e termites). Although it does not create a complete barrier it will help in the reduction of them entering as well as a metal termite shield put on the top of the foundation wall.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This a house we are remodeling. The foundation in front of and behind this weight-bearing wall has settled, creating a hump in the upstairs floor where the stick built joists in front of the wall (garage) and behind it (family room) overlap and rest on the top of the wall. We had to remove the subfloor, notch the plate on which these joists rest so that we could level the floor again. Had the front and rear joists been fastened together, the hump would not have occurred but other foundation and structural damage is likely as the foundation settled.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I researched Permanent Wood Foundations. In use since the 1960s, pressure treated wood foundations are cheaper than masonry foundations and can be installed faster. Defects include moisture and evidence of moisture leakage, buckling due to constant pressure or improper backfilling, interior or exterior wood rot, and lack of a moisture barrier.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Attached photo shows a component of the Manufactured Housing Ground Anchor System. This is a longitudinal anchor strap that connects the steel frame and extends to the grade. Straps are in line with the beam and resists forces from the end of the home.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Collar ties have an important role by keeping tension to the upper on third of the roof structure. By tying the opposite roof rafters together this eliminates the possibility of the roof rafters from separating from the ridge board, keeping the load balanced during times of wind uplift or snow loads.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
A on grade concrete slab should have a vapor barrior for several reasons which include.Protect flooring materials frome absorbing moisture,reducing moisture so as not to enhance the enviorment for mold growth,and allows concrete to cure at a slower rate for added strenght.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Cracking in concrete foundations take several forms.Settlement cracks which are caused by improperly sized footings for the type of soil conditions.Another type of crack can be caused by poor site drainage which washes out soil uder portions of the structure.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The photo illustrates what appears to be a settlement crack. It expands from an 1/8" at the bottom to over a 1/2" at the top of the foundation. This crack has existed since the house was built in 1970. There has been no evidence of movement or leaking for 48 years. The crack was sealed on the exterior with what appears to be hydraulic cement. A contributing factor to the settlement may be the walk out. The houses foundation doesn’t step down and the footer is at grade level.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Mortar joints are the weakest point of a brick wall. The denser and more compact the mortar joint is, the greater its ability to shed water. There are many types of mortar joints, some more decorative than functional. Mortar joints that are compact and shed water will extend the life of the wall.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is an example of a foundation bow from external pressure causing wall failure. Some of the potential causes could be from water or frozen moisture, vegetation or old age. This issue should be documented and referred to a professional contractor.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I’ve learned that a 1/2" crack in a fifty year old foundation is NOT considered rapid settlement. Rapid settlement produces tapering cracks. Frozen soil exerts a greater force against a foundation than wet soil. A vapor barrier in a crawl space can reduce the infiltration of moisture, mold, and radon.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Inspecting homes in the south appx. 50 miles from the gulf of Mexico we see homes that are on piers. These homes are raised anywhere from 8 inches off the ground to 15 ft. When inspecting most homes in this area vapor barriers are not found. The crawlspace is usually open to air dry but as mentioned in the articles moisture still wicks up out of the ground and rain water has a tendency to drain under many homes. This is a formula for moisture damage, wood boring insects and microbial growth.
