In the gallery of illustrations, I see a few examples of deck joists being supported at the deck ledger by way of a notch at the bottom the joist resting on a 2 X 2. In my opinion as a certified home inspector and a journeyman carpenter, I would call this out as a defect. The notch effectively reduces the structural depth of the notched member and promotes cracking where the notch ends and a 2 X 2 pierced by nails or lag screws will likely split and also have its strength reduced.
Here is a picture of a proper siding to belly band flashing connection. This also shows that the trim was properly caulked to the siding. This connection is uniform to the balance of the installation and is correct…
It is structurally important to know the difference between collar ties and rafter ties. The span, the load and the deflection all need to be considered and after reading the article on Collar ties VS Rafter ties, it occurs to me that not all of you are builders and will not know the difference…
Note hose bib is not properly secured to the exterior of the home. Hose bib should be properly secured to prevent future damage. When securing hose bib, ensure the valve body going into the house has a proper downward slop to wards the exterior of the home to allow proper drainage in winter months to prevent trapped water from freezing. It is also important to remove all hose and fittings before outside temperatures fall below freezing to allow for proper draining.
Research Essay:
When inspecting decks it is important to look for beam rotation. A beam that is rotating will be subject to localized crushing. Beams should be relatively square and level to prevent damage.
Interesting aspect to inspecting foundations made of stacked stone that is over 150 years old. These foundations can offer easy access for vermin and animals to enter the basement structure of a home. Many times they are not airtight either and not only very energy inefficient but makes me wonder how much radon gas they let out of the building?
This picture shows a piece of loose vinyl siding. This is a defect and can lead to water intrusion and further damage. It should be repaired or replaced.
For the research assignment, I read the article, “Inspecting Brick Veneer in Residential Construction.” One thing I learned was about the requirement of expansion joints in masonry veneer walls. Industry standards require expansion joints in masonry veneer walls every 25 linear feet in walls with no openings and every 20 linear feet in walls with openings.
I noticed this on one of the local buildings. The gymnasium is a tall, 2 story building with a basement. It has a low slope roof, but the condition of the covering is unknown because I could not access it. There is a strip of siding missing at the top of the building, just below the upper level windows. It also appears that there is a large hole in the side of the building, I would estimate 6-8" in diameter. Looking closer, I can see that there is evidence of moisture issues around that hole. I would recommend further investigation by a professional immediately.
Article: Adjustable Steel Columns
Adjustable steel columns, also known as screw jacks, beam jacks, steel columns, and lally columns, are hollow steel posts designed to provide structural support. An threaded mechanism located at the top of the column is used to adjust the height of the post.
They are usually used in basements and can be manufactured as multi-part assembles or as single-piece columns.
The shortcomings are that the posts are less than 3 inches in diameter, causing them to be in violation of the International Residential Code (IRC), which says that columns , “shall not be less than 3-inch diameter standard pipe.” The posts are not protected by rust-inhibitive paint which is required by the IRC.
Other problems include: the posts not are not straight, the posts should also be mechanically connected to the floor and to the overhead beam. There are usually more than 3 inches of the screw thread*are exposed.
InterNACHI inspectors may want to inspect adjustable steel columns for problems, but a structural engineer may be required to confirm serious issues.
Exterior inspection
Siding inspections, on the rear South West corner next to the rear door the siding is physically damaged and is in a condition that is not functional. It may allow water and moisture to penetrate the wall system decaying the internal structures it should be repair ASAP.
Flood-Damaged
I read the advice on how to sterilize a can good. Having some experience in watching cans of peach explode due to the fact that they were left in boiling water for approximately 10. So a word of caution if there are going to boil any sealed container do not let it boil for more than 5 minutes and to use protective gloves and eye wear.
This is a photo of the front of the house, the mortar in joints has deteriorated, separated & sections missing on upper section of the house. Past repairs were not properly done on the house. There is still damage to the area , it appears that there is movement on the wall . Needs further review by qualified licensed contractor.
Formaldehyde : Formaldehyde is a colorless,pungent smelling chemical , it may be present in substantial concentrations inside the home. Formaldehyde may be found in pressed wood , fiberboard , panelings & composite wood products. High levels are found in moble homes back in the 1970s they even used it on carpet backing. There are numerous heath issues & concerns about formaldehyde.
Unless you can prove the cause of the peeling paint in unprimered wood, you are providing nothing but speculation. If there is a deeper problem you are not seeing, you open yourself open to liability. I would mention the peeling paint and leave it at that.
I took a picture of a downspout that has several problems. The first is not pictured. The downspout services about 80 feet of gutter. Pictured: The grade at this portion of the lot actually slopes back towards the foundation, the downspout discharges about 4 inches from the foundation and directly onto a walk way and the discharge point is clogged with vegetation. The combination of these discrepancies results in excessive amounts of water pooling against the foundation. The soil in this region is primarily clay and very expansive when wet, potentially resulting in differential foundation movement/settling.
Aluminum Siding Inspection
Aluminum siding was used extensively in the US from the 1940’s until the 1970’s. Its many advantages include: its lightweight, fire proof, can be painted, its durable if maintained correctly, its inorganic and won’t draw in insects or termites, and, using enamel finishes, can be textured. Its disadvantages include: It can corrode and needs to be painted every 5-10 years, it transmits electricity and should be grounded, it is easily dented and scratched and it can be very loud in a rain storm. When inspecting aluminum siding the inspector should look for grounding if local codes require it, determine if siding is aluminum or vinyl or steel (dents vs cracks indicate aluminum vs vinyl: a magnet may be required to distinguish aluminum from steel), and ensure aluminum siding is not in contact with the ground.
When inspecting a window, look for wood rot,mold,moisture in between window panes.look for caulking around outside of windows. Make sure windows move up and down with ease.describe what kind of window you are inspecting.
Talking about Smoke Alarms today. Alarms are so important and life saving.In GA we have to by code have a detector at entrance to every bedroom and hallway. Also in livingroom/dining room. kitchen area is a must
In the attached photo you will notice the brick chimney and a small amount of leaves collected on it’s head flashing. Because the width of this chimney chase is greater than 30 inches it should have a cricket or saddle flashing. I would recommend this improvement, however, because the roof is relatively new it is doubtful the owner would want to have this improvement done. I would also recommend to the owner that they should monitor this area and periodically clean any accumulation.
