Originally Posted By: cbuell
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
http://www.nachi.org/bbsystem/usrimages/d/delvalle_192.jpg ]
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It is easier to change direction than it is to forget where one has been.
http://www.nachi.org/bbsystem/usrimages/d/delvalle_192.jpg ]
Originally Posted By: phinman
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Interesting!
The picture does not tell the whole story. Since it has been there for 65 years there is some other support somewhere or it configuration would have pulled apart.
The notch at the top along with a notch at the last risers at the floor and some side support may explain why it has not failed, but actually after 65 years it looks to be performing ok with me, an old stairbuilder and broken down carpenter!
Phillip R. Hinman
NJ NACHI
Originally Posted By: cbuell
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Phillip, I have to agree with you that “there is some other support somewhere or it configuration would have pulled apart”. But, unbelievably, the side stringers are not attached to anything. What you see in the picture is all there is. Looks like some damn sucessful toe nails to me! Also there is no “positive” connection at the floor either.
Originally Posted By: dvalley
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I don’t care how long this has been in place, I would still recommend L-brackets be installed at this location.
You know what they say about deck joists that are toenailed!
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David Valley
MAB Member
Massachusetts Certified Home Inspections
http://www.masscertified.com
"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go."
Originally Posted By: phinman
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If that is all there is I would also, but I suspect there is more support some where handling the bulk of the weight or it would have failed!
Phil
Originally Posted By: jhagarty
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Charles:
Any photos of the length of the stringers?
Any support located midspan?
Any connection to a support post at the bottom of the stringers?
--
Joseph Hagarty
HouseMaster / Main Line, PA
joseph.hagarty@housemaster.com
www.householdinspector.com
Phone: 610-399-9864
Fax : 610-399-9865
HouseMaster. Home inspections. Done right.
Originally Posted By: cbuell
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Joe,
Unfortunately I didn’t photo the rest of the stairs----I wish I did now. There are no midspan supports. There are three stringers with one attached at the bottom to a beam support post. Granted this does give some support but the support at the top would still at best be marginal. It is amazing how when you know something has been functional for 65 years your mind wants to convince you that the way it is is OK!
Originally Posted By: rmoore
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I’ve been functional for 55 years, and I know I could use some improvement.
I think Dave Valley had it right. Some metal brackets or strapping would be a cheap, easy fix that could only help and would certainly do no harm. Go with you gut feeling Charlie.
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Richard Moore
Rest Assured Inspection Services
Seattle, WA
www.rainspect.com
Originally Posted By: jpeck
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Ever lean a length of wood up against the side of a house? Ever lean a ladder against the side of a house? Did you climb the ladder without strapping it to the house?
Of course.
IF, and that is the key and it has apparently been true for 65 years, IF the bottom of the stringers are anchored and held tight against movement, those stringers cannot go anywhere ... unless the double header they are resting against move.
The nails are not providing the most resisting force, the wood leaning against wood is. The nails are 'backup'.
Would I recommend leaving it this way? ARE YOUR CRAZY! No way.
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Jerry Peck
South Florida