Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The structural framing in the image has been installed within the structural steel wind frame brace. The correct measures were taken to ensure the internal bridging and slip track were used. The engineered shop drawings and calculations most likely dictated the parameters and assume they were followed by the contractor.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Attic Access in the Garage open to the entire attic:
Research & Writing Assignment:
The exhaust vent for all kitchen, bathrooms and other areas expelling contaminants to the exterior should be well constructed and sealed to eliminate the possibility of leakage into the habitable space. This reduces the possibility for the occupants, and dwelling, to experience degradation.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Insulation R Value
This article addressed R value and how it is measured, history, and different types of insulation. I found the most helpful piece of this article was a chart that showed various types of insulation, thicknesses of the insulation, and the corresponding r-values to each. This could be helpful in the field.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Installing Attic Insulation Article
This article discusses the application of attic insulation. Properly applied insulation can instantly reduce energy cost. The article goes on to explain how insulation can help reduce heat loss during the winter months but also goes on to explain that the attic should also have an adequate ventilation system that will allow heat to escape in the summer months when trying to keep the house cool. Insulation installed in the attic should fill the spaces between the joists and in most cases loose insulation can be blown into the attic so that it adequately fills all the necessary spaces. Before the insulation installation the air flow must be maintained and baffles should be placed around light fixtures. Also, sheets of plastic should be placed and stapled between joists so that the insulation can be applied on top of the plastic. The loose fill insulation should be leveled with a notched board so that it is the correct thickness. And make sure that the entire floor is covered.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Crawlspace in manufactured home. Has a forced air furnace with floor registers. The ductwork is recommended to have insulation for efeciency performance. And also supported well along the length of ducts to avoid air leaks and restrictions. Tap on duct to hear for inside insulation.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Lightning requirements: in the house where is non livable space like attic, unitility room, basement and storage, lighting outlets must be switch- controlled. Other spaces like bedrooms, hallways, bathrooms and other habitat spaces , lightning outlets must be wall-switch controll. If stairs has more then 6 steps, the switch must be install on both levels.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
On the image you can see the new construction. This is garage. Insulated pipe going from basement to supply the air to the second floor. Because garage is considered as non living space the supply pipe is insulated. Size of the main pipe is 9 inches and insulated with R- 8.0 insulation.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The image I attached is of a double pane window that looks to be failing. You can see the condensation between the panes. I would recommend that the client contact a Licensed/Certified Window Specialist. Without taking further action there is a possibility of further water intrusion.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the article on condensation in double-paned windows. Double pane windows have a layer of gas between two panes of glass acting as insulation to help with heat loss through the window. The gas used is usually argon or air.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is an overview of the single glazed skylight window installed on the roof. The flashing system is adequate and shows no major defects. The window shows no glazing or other major defects. There is some surface rust to the window frame and trim.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Its interesting the different ways you can manage the systems in your home to lower energy costs. Ensuring that the home has an air tight seal is a major factor in most cases. Managing your thermostat correctly is another major one.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Here is a picture of an insulated garage door. The manufacturs tags are still in place and in good condition. One tag states that the door was installed by a licensed installed in March of 2016. The door functions properly and the safety controls worked when doing the inspection. The sensors reacted correctly when an obstruction was discovered. The windows in the top showed no signs of cracking and all the weather seals were intact.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The article I read was on rockwool. I thought it was a good article to read because the course covered insulation. I had never heard of rockwool so I wanted to learn more about it. It is an interesting concept of using rocks or minerals to create insulation. The insulation also decreases the travel of sound waves. It was also interesting that it was discovered after a volcanic eruption and now its able to be create in a factory using large furnaces.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Attic spaces are a great place to find where a short cut may have been taken . Check for insulation properly installed all the way to the edge of the eaves , over the top plates , covering access panels to the attic , and properly insulated knee walls . Check the depth of the insulation to see if the proper r rating has been achieved for that area . Check to see if vent piping is properly attached and through to the exterior of the home. Check plumbing vent stacks , chimneys , electrical masts , etc. Check the underside of the roof structure for sings of water intrusion or past repairs . check that rafters have not been cut or damaged .
Research & Writing Assignment:
The electrical system of a home is considered a high voltage system . The electrical system begins at the transformer where is brought in by over head or under ground means. It goes from there to the meter socket and continues in to the breaker panel . The meter and the breaker panel must be grounded and bonded. Grounding and bonding are two different things where grounding protects electrical equipment and bonding protects people . The electrical system then goes to branch circuits , GFI s afci s , receptacle’s , switches and equipment such as washers , dryers , refrigerators etc. .
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The following is a list of items I always look for while inspecting stairways. the balusters are spaced such that a 4" ball cannot pass through them. The rise on each step is not more than 7-3/4". The run on each tread is a minimum of 10". This stair meets the minimum specifications.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This image is of a bathroom fan venting into attic. These fans should be vented to the exterior to help remove moisture from home. This can caus moisture issues with roof decking and insulation. Properly vent to exterior by a qualified contractor.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read an article on truss alterations in garage framing. Many of the older garages have altered trusses or rafters, I always recommend further evaluation by a qualified roofing expert. Roofing should be left to decent roofers (knowing not all are).
