Research & Writing Assignment:
The maintenance of the roof and making sure that the proper ventilation and stacks are placed appropriately. getting rid of the gases and warm airs from the house important. also putting screens on the stacks will prevent rodents from intruding in to the house.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Vapor barriers which are usually plastic sheeting are designed to control the movement of water vapor in the structure. The ability to stop the movement of water vapor is nearly impossible, but limiting the movement is the target idea. Regional environmental considerations are calculated for what types of class of vapor barrier to use to achieve the best protections for the structure. Vapor barriers range from enamel paint to treated paper to plastic to reinforced plastic. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages for each region and product will benefit the inspector and his client.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Missing chutes/baffles were observed at several eave/soffit openings and the fiberglass insulation material appears to be installed in a manner that restricts air intake at the soffit ventilation sources. To prohibit insulation materials from blocking off the openings at the eaves to the soffit vents, which are intended to allow adequate air movement and intake ventilation, most building science professionals and energy consultants recommended the continuous installation of baffles/chutes at all eave/rafter openings.
Research & Writing Assignment:
(Illustration selected “Downspout Extension Too Short”)
Gutter downspout extensions of sufficient lengths were not installed on all downspouts during the time of the inspection service. Installing and properly securing downspout extensions to divert collected rainwater a minimum forty-eight inches away from the foundation and footings of the structure is highly recommended in the near future.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The above picture is of visible water stains on the garage wall located at the residence being inspected. The water stains are approximately 18 inches above the garage concrete slab . It is unknown if the leak is from the laundry room which is on the opposite side of the wall , or from a previously moved appliance located in this area. Further inspection is required to find the cause of the water intrusion.
Research & Writing Assignment:
One area of the home inspection that can pose a hazard to the inspector , is the attic inspection. Just entering the attic may pose a hazard , due to the attic entrance. In many cases , attic access stairs may pose a safety concern due to being improperly installed by the homeowner. Attic stairs may also be old and rickety , causing a collapse hazard for the inspector . Always check the attic access for safety prior to entering or using the pull down stairs.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Unvented crawlspaces seem to be the logical choice over vented crawlspaces. For relatively little cost, a huge benefit can be realized in terms of energy savings and comfort. In retrofitting an older house, care should be taken to correct all possible water, waste, and gas leaks; and make sure the exposed earth is covered with a 6 mil vapor retardant overlapped 6 inches along the edges, with at least 6 inches turned up and fastened along the foundation walls.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The image shows a dirty soffit vent. With the soffit vents are this dirty, it might not provide adequate ventilation in the attic. I would recommend cleaning or replacement of the clogged vents in order to ensure proper ventilation of the attic.
Research & Writing Assignment:
When I inspect the stair that provides access to the attic there are a number of things to look for. What I regularly find is the attic stair in the garage is not fire rated. Also it is regularly not properly fastened or is improperly cut. I always report these deficiencies to my clients.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Clothes dryer exhaust vent piping should be 4 inches in diameter and should be no longer than 25 feet in length. The pipe should be smooth, and the sections should be joined with metal tape. No sheet metal screws should be used at the connections. Every 45 degree elbow is the equivalent of 2.5 feet of piping; and every 90 degree elbow is the equivalent of 5 feet of piping. The pipe should terminate through a roof or wall, with a louvered or hooded cap for prevention of weather or pest intrusion.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
While inspecting the attic there was mold present due to lack of ventilation. When inspecting the exterior there was a ridge vent installed. But they didn’t cut the vent thru the roof. Nor did they have the proper spacing on insulation or baffles installed to allow proper ventilation. Recommended calling a professional to remediate the problem.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Proper ventilation of your attic space is very crucial to get the most life out of the complete roof system. If an attic isn’t vented properly not only is it going to reduce the life of your roof covering. It also is very stressful on the sheathing anf framing components of the roof.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This essay is over thin attic insulation. Attic insulation is key to keeping a home warm or cool during the seasons. Although this is just one factor it is important for a home to have the proper insulation depth. Without proper insulation a home can rapidly cool and warm during season change.
Research & Writing Assignment:
This essay will briefly touch on ductwork that is leaking in an attic space. Not only is this an energy efficiency issue that needs to be addressed ,but a potential moisture issue could occur. If this issue goes unnoticed mold or damage can occur. This can cause costly damage.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The attic appeared to have insufficient insulation in areas. Cellulose loose-fill/blown-in insulation was present but was not a sufficient height in areas to prevent energy loss. I recommend having this evaluated and repaired/addressed as necessary by a qualified and licensed contractor prior to closing.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read an article about attic pull down ladders from the Library of Inspection Articles. I see these types of ladders installed very often and now feel more confident and know more of what to look for when inspecting them.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This double-paned window has condensation, insects, and discoloration (rust) from a broken seal. The fillet molding around the window exterior has expanded at the corners from thermal pumping. Due to the window’s location (at the second story) a window specialist should determine if a repair (de-fogging) is possible.
Research & Writing Assignment:
“Blower Door Testing” is a field test method used in home energy audits. A blower door is a fan unit attached to an exterior door that creates air movement while monitoring air pressure and heat transfer. The data taken during the test can determine the building’s air tightness and energy efficiency.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Inspecting the attic in the older homes, they are generally found to be deficient in attic insulation. Cellulose type insulation is typical in my inspection environment so I often recommend future improvements to include at a minimum adding additional insulation.
Research & Writing Assignment:
While performing attic inspections it is often noted that the improper installation of bathroom and laundry room vent fans have been installed. Most do it yourselfers and untrained handyman install these without venting to the exterior of the home. This results in an additional moisture load in the attic.
