I took an image of uninsulated and unsealed ducts in a conditioned crawlspace. This is a deficiency of efficiency. Ducts should be insulated with a thermal wrap and sealed with tin tape &/or fire caulking to help with overall efficiency and help lower the homes heating & cooling costs. A sealed and insulated unit can boost the efficiency of the heating & cooling units by 40%.
I studied an article on the hazards of crawlspaces. I learned that crawlspaces present hazards such as shock, rodents, snakes, chemical contaminants, risk of structural collapse, mold, respiratory illness, hantavirus, asbestos exposure, etc. Proper PPE should be worn to help protect against some of these hazards but it is the inspectors job to clarify whether the crawlspace is safe to enter.
The attached photo of a crawlspace shows numerous problems. The insulation has gotten wet and is falling down. All insulation should be removed and wood inspected. There is no vapor barrier on the floor. Water staining is evident on the girders. The girder supports are not installed where the joists are sistered together. The girders also do not have anti rotation hardware or supports where they are connected to the joists. All old debris from repairs should be removed from crawlspace to allow proper inspection.
Crawlspace hazards and inspections. There are many dangers presented to an inspector when he/she are to enter a crawlspace. Proper protective gear should be utilized to prevent harm from the environment in the crawlspace. If the crawlspace is unsafe even with gear on precautions or rescheduling an inspection after the hazards are removed may be necessary.
This an photos of a floor joist that has a number of problems. First the joists where jacked up two fast and subsequently it damaged drywall above the bedroom and closet doors at the headers.
Joist are also missing 1/2" carriage bolts to help support the three sistered floor joists.
Bathroom ventilation fans are designed to move odor and moisture through the roof and to the exterior. Improper ventilation to the outside, not the attic or a crawlspace can result in mold or rot. both of which are problematic, mold spores and structural damage from moisture are a few problems.
Visible white stains on the inside surface of the basement walls which is a conditioned call Efflorescence was found. The source of this moisture intrusion should be identified to correct the condition as it can affect the soil beneath the foundation. It can cause damage to home materials and encourages the growth of microbes such as mold.
I read the article “Crawlspace Hazards and Inspection”: Since crawlspaces go uncheck for long periods of time the breed multiple unsafe or hazardous conditions. It is common to see pests, mold, sewage, rodents, spiders, structure collapse, improper wires, standing water and more. Be prepared with the proper attire when entering and also carry a good flashlight to evaluate the space before entering as you may encounter numerous things. Be sure to bring a respirator, gloves, camera, live wire detector, moisture reader if you have one.
Multiple issues were found in the crawlspace I attempted to inspect. The access was through the perimeter wall and was less than the required 16"x24". When poking my head into the space to take the picture, I discovered no visible vapor barrier (6mil poly) and fallen batts of insulation. Likely due to recent significant rains, water was seen on the floor of the crawlspace.
This crawlspace had been recently remodel. The plastic on the soil used is a 6 ML and has an overlap of more than 6 inches. The drain pipe and insulation looks well supported. This is a good quality work performed in this crawlspace.
Before i get into a crawlspace, i going to make sure that is in a safe conditions. I will wear what is necessary for my physical and health safety. Once inside i will look for signs of moisture, mold, leaks, and make sure that all pipes and wires are properly attached.
Crawl space. As you can see this is a pretty clean space. All pillars have straps holding them in place. Floor joist and beams are in good condition. There are no electric wires hanging down and are supported. Vapor barrier is clean and ran up the walls and pillars. With vapor barrier up the exterior wall you can not really see the wall for proper inspection.
Post to Beam Connection. I would as an inspector like too see the Post have a joist to beam bracket. As to a notched post with the beam resting on it with just two lag bolts. Would probably call it a deficiency as to a defect.
Date: Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Address: 123 Fake Street. Raleigh NC
Upon entering the crawl space at 123 Fake street. Raleigh, I saw the crawl space was a sealed and conditioned area. The plastic used, exceeded the required 6-millimeter polyethylene requirement to cover the dirt below. I detected no evidence of foreign organisms or bugs. The crawl space was clean and conditioned. All structures appeared to be well built and intact.
Date: Wednesday, May 30, 2018
The article I read and found most interesting is titled ‘My Trick for Building Inspection Websites That Converts Visitors into Clients’. The article has made me think for a moment. Yes, images are often used as a filler and are simply stock photos grabbed from someplace to simply get the job done and finish up the website. I am guilty of this act myself. I will attempt your challenge and start with the images and no words. This sounds backward to me but seems to make some sense. More thought and consideration with the imagery should help. Thanks for the advice.
This is a picture of a garage floor meeting up with a slab floor for the house. The slab does not appear to have any signs of cracking or visual signs of moisture that would indicate there was problem with the slab.
Efflorescence is the white chalky powder that can be found on concrete or brick walls and can indicate a moisture problem. The powder is from dissolved salt left over when water has evaporated from the concrete or brick. Efflorescence on there own are not a cause for worry but they indicate a presence of moisture that can compromise building materials.
This crawlspace has had a vapour barrier properly installed. The plastic runs 6 inches up the walls and is completely sealed at seams. It should be noted that there is significant efflorescence seen on the on the foundation walls, and may indicated poorly graded landscape out side.
Sump Pump Lids
Although sump pumps are very effective at the removal of excess water, if they are not properly seals, other issues may be introduced into the home. Of most concern is an increase of radon gas levels in the home, however, an unsealed sump pump may simply increase the humidity level in the whole putting it at risk of developing mold. Since 2009, the IRC has mandated that all sump pumps have a gas tight, removable lid.
The crawlspace pictured was a conditioned crawlspace. It was very clean and had the proper plastic floor covering the dirt as well as insulated walls. It made a big difference and really showed how making the crawlspace a conditioned space is worth the effort in the long run.
