Inspection & Writing Assignment:
When attaching a ledger board to the structure, make sure the bolts are properly staggered for maximum strength. This, along with proper joist installation methods will make sure the deck will maintain its integrity for years to come. Regular inspection and maintenance will also maintain integrity.
Research & Writing Assignment:
When constructing a deck, it’s important to follow the correct guidelines on where outdoor receptacles should be placed. Minimum requirements state that there should be outdoor receptacles at the front and rear of the property, no more that 6 1/2’ above the ground. For decks/balconies greater than 20sqft accessed from the interior of the house, at least one outdoor receptacle should be installed within the deck/balcony perimeter and no more than 6 1/2’ above the deck/balcony.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
the pictured here is from a previous inspection done. Here we see evidence of strong rot due to water damaged from the close proximity of beach. Building a deck on Sanibel island this makes from constant water intrusion opportunities. using the pick test also from seeing first hand was able to educate the buyer on this defect.
Research & Writing Assignment:
the article read was on further inspections of a decks. Many decks fail due to overloading, also home owners building decks themselves. When built themselves the deck is not built to code at times or to conversate for weather conditions and seismic activity.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
You will notice from the picture that this deck is not utilizing 4x4 posts for support of the guardrails and handrails. This is incorrect installation. The spacing between the balusters is correct and less than the 4" sphere requirement. The ledger board was attached correctly to the band joist with correct fasteners.
Research & Writing Assignment:
In the Attic Furnace Inspection photo, the man is taking a look at the data plate on the side of the furnace. You can see that the panel is opened up. This will allow for the inspector to examine the wiring and internal components to make sure nothing looks out of the ordinary, and that will function properly.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This deck was found to be in need of repair/replacement. The support beam was not properly installed and has twisted. Post anchors could not be verified. Missing and damaged guard posts. Two joist hangers are missing underneath and some of the joist hangers are missing nails. Deck flashing can not be verified.
Research & Writing Assignment:
It is easy to understand why deck failures are so common. It is a project that does not require walls and a roof so people overlook the need for structural soundness. It can, however, have the greatest potential to injure or kill someone. It is important to review how to inspect a deck if you are not sure of all the things to look for while inspecting a deck.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This picture shows a deck located on the second floor out of a house. It is more than 12’ above grade. It is being held up by a single 4x4 or 6x6 that could easily bow and break in the middle. The joists are being held up by joist hangers attached directly to the siding. This deck is an extreme hazard and could result in a collapse. It is recommended that a structural engineer be consulted about making this deck safe for occupants.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The photo I viewed depicts a butt joint on two overlapping deck support beams. They do not overlap on top of a column. It is not recommended that the butt joints join where there is not direct support under the joint, unless engineered that way. The effect could be a hinge point for the beams and lead to deck failure.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is a picture of deck boards. this particular one does not have pressure treated wood or even stained wood. Moisture will be a big problem for this deck. It was start to rot rather quickly without any proper protection.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Home Service Grounding Electrodes. Electrical grounding systems divert dangerous electrical currents by providing a way between a buildings service box and the earth. Lightning and static electricity are the most common sources of dangerous charges through a grounding system. Grounding electrodes are connected to the buildings electrical system through grounding electrode conductors.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
It is important when inspecting a deck that you dig down into the ground and inspect the posts for wood decay. The pick test on wood that is in contact with the ground will determine if there is wood decay to the deck.
Research & Writing Assignment:
When conducting an inspection of a deck it is important to inspect the girders of the deck. Girders should never be attached to the footing post, but should be placed directly on top of the footing post. Also butt joints should be placed on top of the footing posts.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This deck pic shows what appears to be a new deck. The hand rail is one of the oddest I have seen…on one side, clearly not graspable, and on the other side looks like it has a two layer hand rail, the top one being possibly graspable, but I’m not sure. Fortunately it does have stairs with what appears to be appropriate rise and run, and spindles which appear to pass the 4" test.
Research & Writing Assignment:
In looking at the “Deck ledger to house connection” picture, it’s a bit confusing because it doesn’t include proper flashing above nor below the deck floor/ledger board. It also assumes the ability to attach to a board on the other side of the home’s exterior wall, which I doubt most have the ability to do.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The attached image shows an improperly built wood deck. The deck railing system was built without the use of 4x4 posts; therefore, will not withstand the required lateral force for guardrails. The railing pickets spacing is also not code compliant, allowing more than 4 inches between pickets. In addition, the stair risers are open, making a potential hazard.
Research & Writing Assignment:
As an added service, inspectors can provide helpful tips to homeowners to help deter burglars. Some statistics show that most burglars enter a home through the first floor and front entrance. Therefore, a lot of attention should be made to protect these areas. Exterior doors should be made from steel or solid wood and have quality deadbolt locks. Areas should be clear and provide visibility and well lighted. Burglars prefer entering through dark areas, therefore lights should be located on all four side of the home. In addition, when not at home or traveling, an attempt should be made to appear to have someone present by use of timers to automatically turn on lights and or radios.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is a picture of stairs leading up to a deck built on the back of a house. Since there are 4 or more risers, there should be at least one handrail on the stairs with a height of 34 to 38 inches in height.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The picture I chose to study was of handrails going up stairs leading to a deck. A 6 inch sphere should not fit through the triangular opening created by the handrail and steps. Also, a 4 3/8 inch sphere should not fit between the vertical rails.
