I read the article Inspecting Gutters and Downspouts. I learned the importance of inspecting and communicating the the condition of gutters and spouts to the client. Most of the damage to foundations and building materials are caused by moisture intrusion. A significant amount of water can be kept away from the foundation and building materials if gutters are properly installed and downspouts are directed 4 to 5 away from the structure. This is an easy and important fix to protect the home stucture and building materials and one that should be clearly communicated to your client.
jlemmerman
(James Lemmerman, NY State Lic # 16000094555)
15242
Research & Writing Assignment:
Radon is an interesting and important topic. I learned in an article today that lung cancer is the second highest cause of death in the USA, just below heart attacks. I also learned that smoking was the highest reason for death from lung cancer and that Radon was the number one killer of lung cancer for non smokers
Basic Waterproofing for Basements
The most common cause of wet basements or foundation moisture seepage is likely improper exterior grading near the foundation, and inadequate roof drainage. Soil should slope away from the foundation for approximately 10 to 15 feet to accomplish effective drainage and limit water against or near the foundation. Gutters and downspouts should be properly maintained by keeping clear and free of debris. Downspout leaders should discharge well away from the foundation, approximately 10 feet, and to an area that does not allow water to drain or flow toward the foundation.
Sealing of foundation cracks and holes is also an important measure to take in accomplishing dry basement conditions.
Water intrusion is an easy defect to avoid. Today we have the education and technologies to create a water free environment if one pays attention to slope, grading, flashing, drains, water resistant coverings, soil contents, etc. Noted in the picture-once a leak or intrusion has been identified and corrected. The damage that was created should be removed to to the potential of poor air conditions and/or environments. Potential health risks to occupants and or customers. Not to mention from something as easy as popping out a damaged ceiling tile and replacing with new.
Rain guttering & downspouts are important vehicle needed to remove shedding water from the roof line and out to a practical discharge location. Structures located in rain zones 7-9 should have mandatory installation of guttering system installed on all new construction. The damage caused by water intrusion from lack of proper drainage can be very expensive in the long run not to mention possible health issues created by spores/fungi. Home owners should be educated that rain gutters are a cosmetic component and not for stopping their heads getting wet as they walk out their front door.
In my photo you can clearly see water penetration in the basement. The water and moisture in the air is going to put at risk anything in the air with mold. The water is dude to poor yard drainage and no concrete sealer.
This photo shows where there was previous moisture damage to the sub-floor. The first 3 1/2 inches of the sub-floor are still stained with a fungus. The sub-floor behind that has been replaced with new plywood. The reason the first 3 1/2 inches was not replaced is because those first few inches are under the front wall. This damage occurs in this location (front wall) because water is entering at the stoop. Check for caulking/flashing in this area on the exterior.
My essay is on abrasive blasting for mold remediation, it is air blasting abrasive particles on a work piece and helps prevent mold. best place to go about this is in a common damp area. It also makes it easy to get to hard places and takes way from scrubbing and sanding.
Gutters improperly installed or maintained or no gutters are all can be a primary source of moisture problems in crawl spaces or basements. If a house lacks gutters or gutters are badly leaking the rain will fall directly next to the foundation. The first thing that happens is the ground starts to erode, thus causing pooling, the ground then becomes saturated and will eventually seep under the house. This water can enter from under the footers or can permeate the foundation walls. So the first step in reducing the amount of moisture entering a crawl or basement starts with the gutters.
During the crawl space inspection no vapor barrier was present. Vapor barriers decrease the amount of moisture in a crawl space and help to keep moisture from being introduced into the home. This inspector recommends a vapor barrier be installed by a qualified contractor.
In my article entitled, “Crawlspace hazards and inspection” I learned that airborne spores have the potential to enter the living space from the crawlspace and produce allergens. In some cases potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins) can be contracted from the spores when inhaled or touched.
In this picture,looking from the inside out, you can see the paint on the outside is chipping off and the exterior sealant is old and worn. Further inspection shows light water spots on the inside window sill. Attention to these windows needs further attention.
I read the article that’s about taking air samples for mold. Since mold spores can’t be seen air samples are a god way to determine the severity of a mold problem. Samples should be taken when there is evidence of water intrusion or evident moisture present. You should not take samples if the homeowner is under the care of a physician for mold or if the inspectors health is a factor when obtaining t sample.
Kickout flashing, also known as diverter flashing, is a special type of flashing that diverts rainwater away from the cladding and into the gutter. When installed properly, they provide excellent protection against the penetration of water into the building envelope.
I read an article of mold. Mold can occur in numerous areas of the house especially where there is water intrusion or damp areas such as basement or crawlspaces. Mold effects people in different ways. Repairs and proper mold remediation should be recommended.
During inspection of the crawlspace I observed missing or inadequate vapor barrier present. Evidence of water interring the crawlspace on rear wall. Water was present at time of inspection and was puddling on top of the vapor barrier that was present. Replacement of vapor recommended along with waterproofing crawlspace wall.
Moisture intrusion can be the cause of building defects, as well as health ailments for the building’s occupants. Inspectors should have at least a basic understanding of how moisture may enter a building, and where problem areas commonly occur.
Some common moisture-related problems include:
structural wood decay;
high indoor humidity and resulting condensation;
expansive soil, which may crack the foundation through changes in volume, or softened soil, which may lose its ability to support an overlying structure;
undermined foundations;
metal corrosion;
ice dams; and
mold growth. Mold can only grow in the presence of high levels of moisture. People who suffer from the following conditions can be seriously (even fatally) harmed if exposed to elevated levels of airborne mold spores:
asthma;
allergies;
lung disease; and/or
compromised immune systems.
Evidence of water intrusion is one of the most important things to look for throughout an inspection in my opinion. I chose a picture of a wash machine drain line because often times you will see evidence of water back splashing, overflow, or even loose/deteriorated hose connections at the washer.
I chose to read the article titled Protect Your Property From Water Damage. The main point that I gathered from this article was how many different types of water intrusion there could be in any given house. It stresses the importance of checking a home thoroughly at multiple points not just the obvious sinks, showers, and toilets.
Moisture can be a very damaging part of a home. While inspecting a bathroom there are many things that you should check for moisture (leaks). The toilet can leak from the tank meeting the bowl,floor flange(wax seal) and the supply line. In this bathroom the shower if not installed correctly it can leak at the glass enclosure. Also check the valve handles while running to see if water comes out the handles when in the on position. Lastly the sink can have a leak on the p trap or the supply lines going to the faucet.
