Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The attached photograph shows a new roof under construction. Visible are the following components: 1. Topguard roofing paper which covers roof deck. 2. Grace - Ice & Water shield in the valley and covering the first 3’-4’along the eves. 3. Step flashing along the edge of the lower roof against the vertical wall. These items are not visible on existing construction but should be included in any new construction.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Just finished reading the articles “Mastering Roof Inspections - Metal Roofs”. Article 2 discusses the three forms of corrosion that affect metal roofs. Galvanic corrosion results from electrolysis of dissimilar metals. Crevice corrosion results from moisture which sits for long periods of time allowing it to penetrate the metal’s protective coating. And finally, Filiform Corrosion which appears as a thin filament beneath the protective paint.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
this is a photo of a metal roof I inspected with protruding fasteners utilized. Instead of the standing seam style metal roof. This style of fastening is more susceptible to water intrusion by improper fastening be it to tight or to loose or missing all together.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Most metal roofing products are designed to be installed over a supporting roof deck that bears the structural load, transferring the load down through the walls to the building foundation, and then to the soil. These products are called architectural metal roofing.
Structural metal roofing products are usually thicker than architectural products and are installed without a supporting roof deck. They typically rest on purlins that are spaced according to the manufacturers requirements.
The term purlin, in this case, describes framing members typically installed parallel to the ridge for the purpose of supporting metal roofing. A purlin also refers to a system of braces used in conventional roof framing to reduce the distance spanned by rafters. Structural panels are more common in commercial, industrial and agricultural applications.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The metal panel roof shown in the picture belongs to a commercial property (hotel). It appears to be galvalume and it is starting to show some corrosion or discoloration. Closer inspection is necessary to determine if any panels are compromised which would require replacement.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Metal roofs can be installed in multiple ways. The best methods to install metal panel roofs allow for the expansion and contraction of the panels due to thermal cycles. Based on this, the clip method is recommended over the penetrating fasteners as these fasteners will eventually back out and loosen due to thermal cycling.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
A properly sized, designed and sealed “Kick-out Flashing” should be installed at any roof-to-wall intersection to help divert water away from the structure (this can help prevent moisture damage to the building). When not present we recommend service and correction by a qualified and licensed roofing contractor.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Most cities in a metroplex have rules on how many Fire Extinguishers should be present, where they should be, how often they should be checked (annually), by whom, etc. On commercial inspections it is improper but common to see extinguishers last serviced 3-4 years prior. We recommend getting all service and maintenance records from the current owner or tenant. Then check with the city for their requirements on these. We would anticipate that a new owner will often have to add more and do service or maintenance regarding these.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Metal roofing was installed on a flat surface. This has led to pooling of water, which may result in water intrusion to underlying roofing material. The slope of a roof that has a metal material installed should be no less that 2-12. This is a defect. A different roofing material should be considered, and installed by a roofing professional.
Research & Writing Assignment:
When i am inspecting a gutter system the first thing i want look for is that the guttering system is adequately sized to prevent runoff, i will also check that the gutters are free of rust, cracks and holes in order to prevent leaking and the downspouts are diverting the water at least 4 to 6 feet away so as to keep the excess from getting into foundation.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This a copper panel roof that looks to be fairly recent install. It has some patina on it but not heavy thus indicating a fairly “new” roof. The seams are tight and the hip is sealed well. I’m a little concern about the exposed fascia board but it appear to have some type of sealant protection on it.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Metal roofing has certainly had a resurgence in the south , especially Florida.
Most metal roofs Florida are panel type with sealed seams. Properly installed metal roofs can last for many years and are resistant to most environmental factors. The biggest threat to metal roofing in my mind is proper installation.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
In this picture there is a properly flashed chimney, the have a cooper chimney cricket as while as step flashing that has been counter flashed. The chimney help divert water around the chimney, protecting the roof deck from potential water damage. The mortar joints have been cut and the counter flash was inserted into the cut and sealed.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Galvanic corrosion can cause major issue with the home system. Galvanic corrosion is when two dissimilar metal come in contact with each other. With in the home issue can show up in plumbing when steel meets a brass fitting, or in the electrical when aluminum wire come in contact with copper wire and copper components.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
in this pictor you will notice the door has a slight lean which may indicate the flooring has a sag in it which is causing the door frame be out of plume which should be looked at by a licensed contractor.
Research & Writing Assignment:
so when inspecting a pool first thing you should do after you have arrived 15 to 30 min early is stand back look at the over all condition of the barricade check the gate to make sure the latch is 5.5 in height. and that it swings closed automatically.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is a picture showing crevice corrosion. This corrosion is caused by water being held against the side wall of a piece of metal causing corrosion. The metal will rust and then eventually turn to dust. This type of corrosion must be prevented.
Research & Writing Assignment:
This is a picture of crevice corrosion. This type of corrosion is caused by water being held next to the side wall of a price of metal. This metal will rust and eventually turn into dust. This must be prevented.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
this is a photo of galvanic corrosion on an aluminum screen enclosure frame. The coastal location of the home subjects the aluminum to salt air and moisture that provides the electrolyte need between the steel screws and the aluminum frame to cause damage.
Research & Writing Assignment:
One of the most common defects that I find on metal roofing is lifted screws and damaged or deteriorated rubber seal washers under the screw heads. The Florida sun and salt air can cause damage to the heads and washers allowing possible moisture intrusion.
