I chose “Inspecting Insulation of Existing Crawlspace Floors” by Nick Gromicko and Katie McBride. I learned from this article that crawlspaces can run the gambit from “mini basements” that are conditioned, to crawlspaces under a house that is built on piers. Conditioned crawlspaces are the best in terms of safety, energy consumption, etc. And finally that one of the most important features of a crawlspace, is a ground cover to control moisture from entering the space and eventually causing all types of moisture related issues.
Failed Thermal Pane: When checking the windows in a house, always look for a failed thermal pane window. The window in the picture, shows a broken window, that has caused the thermal seal to leak, causing the inside of the window to fog. The only true fix for this window is replacement.
Attic Insulation: insulation in attics over time, and with the addition of attic flooring become compressed. Compressed insulation will not provide the full rated R-value. Older houses sometimes because of the age of the insulation may need additional insulation to be installed to get the proper rated R-value. When inspecting the insulation in attics you may often find insulation that has been disturbed or moved to complete work in the attic. This insulation should be restored to its original position.
This metal roof addition butts into an opposing asphalt shingle roof. The roof is sheathed with 1/2" plywood, a complete layer of ice and rain shield, followed by the metal roofing. At the ridge, a slight gap was allowed at the ridge, for ventilation into the ridge cap. Foam barriers were installed between each rafter, running from the ridge to the eaves, for ventilation. Soffit vents were installed as well. 8" of fiberglass insulation was then put into place before the cathedral ceiling material was installed.
I chose the article, “Mastering Metal Roofs, Part 7”. The article states that metal roofing may be installed on roofs with a pitch as low as 2:12, but that manufacturer’s specifications will vary. Underlayment is recommended. As seams are a weak point, several varieties are available, including standing seam, metal seams, flat seams, and overlapping seams. Wind can be especially hazardous with metal roof coverings. Penetrations are also especially subject to problems.
This picture shows a few of the attic truss members that were cut in order to install a furnace. Cut trusses compromise the structural integrity of the roofing system. A qualified person such as a structural engineer should evaluate this and devise a plan to correct as soon as possible.
Attic Pull Down Ladders. This article goes on to describe the importance of correctly installing attic pull-down ladders. Cut truss chords, improper nails and insufficient amount of nails and loose mounting bolts are all areas of concern when these ladders are installed.
Double Hung Window.
The attached will indicate a double hung window located in the garage exterior wall including a insect screen an interior blinds and thumb latch. This window has two operable sashes that move vertically. In this case the frame, muntin and stiles are aluminum. The lintel is between the window and brick is carbon steel. The overall condition of the window is acceptable.
Moisture Intrusion.
Moisture intrusion varies from cold to warm climates. Moisture vapors move through the house in three different ways. Air transportation, diffusion through materials and thermal diffusion. The inspector should observe the exterior for cracks and air leakage and evidence of moisture and the interior for signs of leaks or moisture on the walls.
In this picture there is a casement window in a bedroom. The window frame has some moisture damage. The wood is darker around the glass which is indication of a rot. The moisture condensates from the glass and collects on the frame of the window. This also is a point where cold/warm air depending on the time of year can escape because the window is having moisture issues.
I have chose the picture on an attic with insulation. I have learned from this picture is that the insulation should fit in between the joist and fill the space to be above the top of the joist. This practice can help prevent thermal bridging.
While inspecting the Attic area of the home, there are some InterNACHI standards that should be put into place. Inspecting the entire view one should pay close attention to the stand out things observed and the so called installers mistakes.
While we are not experts nor repairers, but simple to report what we see. By noting and describing what we observe, our inspection should tell a story. With this being said, let us apply all of our knowledge and understanding, to write and report too the best of our ability.
Prep and planning goes a long way. While conducting a rigid inspect in the crawl space, understanding the ground, walls, and underlays will help you see what you are looking for. Ground prep with proper lining and salient, will insure a decrease in mold and any other moisture related findings. Apply all standards of practice when doing so.
The Standards of Practice has set the bar of level of expectation. Let the home tell you it’s story of its faults and findings. Evaluate and report, refer when possible, and let the experts do their job.
This is a picture of the exterior bottom vents on a home in the beach area while they looked in good condition and the appropriate size I also noticed that the exterior wall around the entire perimeter at the bottom had just recently been repaired.
The article I read was about the free E-books that are available to give prospective clients that offer information that every home buyer should know in exchange for their contact information so you can keep sending them inspection related information from time to time until they hopefully decide to use you for their home inspection.
As you can see, the vinyl flooring is pulling up from the sub floor. it is in a tight corner so not enough glue was used when it was installed. This is a defect that can lead to moisture intrusion.
A hand rail needs to be on any stairway that has four or more steps. the rail needs to be continuous from the top step to the bottom step. the rail needs to be one and a half inches from the wall surface.
Gas water heater has appropriate TPRV drain line and has been properly installed to within 4"-6" above the floor. In many homes, I find that these easy-to-install drains lines are overlooked. This is a safety concern and should be put in place to avoid possible personal harm.
After reading through the recycling of your report article, I’ve realized I might need to make some adjustments. I know that my report, on at least one occasion has been recycled. Not sure if I should remind the realtor of our agreement or leave it be. The new home buyer has not had any issues with the report and hope there will be none. If something should arise I will fall back on this article as a great reference.
this is a picture of the rear door of the home.the doors are called french doors with glass inserts, the doors open to a proper landing. the door seal are in good condition. the step up is proper height and provides the proper clearance to keep out water. the glass is sealed tight and their is no moisture intrusion.
