I read the article on crawlspace hazards and inspections as it relates to this training. The biggest over sight with homes that have crawlspaces is the energy loss an unconditioned crawlspace creates. This is a great thing to point out if these homeowners are looking into making their home more energy efficient.
Evidence of water stains were observed in crawlspace directly beneath master bathroom area. Though no moisture was detected at the time of inspection, some leaks may be conditional and moisture not present except under given conditions. Monitoring is recommended, further review / repair as needed.
Crawlspaces can be hazardous and potentially dangerous to enter. That’s why it is important to take proper precautions and choose the right personal protective gear for the job. Some of the risks include Mold and fungus, Pests, hantavirus, asbestos, risk of structural collapse, improper wiring and standing water that may present the possibility of electrical shock.
This picture shows an active leak in the gutter. You can also see water stains, corrosion and wood rot. These defects do not allow the gutter to drain water properly and will allow water to possibly pool around the foundation or enter the home through the rotted wood.
Crawlspaces can present a number of challenges to the home inspector. There are many dangers that exist in the crawlspace that the inspector needs to be aware of. Not only does the inspector need to check for dangers that can deteriorate the home, but the inspector also needs to check for dangers that can harm him/her such as spiders, animals, mold or fungus and asbestos.
This is a picture of a leaking exhaust vent on a high efficiency furnace. The condensate is dripping down the pipe due to an upwards slope to the outside of the Crawlspace area. This is causing water to pool in the Crawlspace. Recommend further evaluation and repair by a licensed contractor.
There are numerous safety concerns when entering a Crawlspace. First, you should never enter a Crawlspace without the appropriate personal protective equipment. Also, there can be concerns with pests, including spiders, snakes and rodents. Hantavirus, mold, and fungus are also of concern.
Wouldnt it be great if all crawl spaces looked like this one? The crawl space is unvented with spray foam insulation on the exterior wall, at least 6 mil plastic on the floor with conditioned air from the main structure and a return vent.
Basic waterproofing basements
The same step for waterproofing a basement could be taken to repair water seeping into your crawl space. Proper drainage by way of sloping and gutter down spouts that move water far enough away from the home are vital. Repairing cracks with epoxy or cement sand mix and silicant sealants are effective applications for repairing foundation walls or blocks.
I found a picture of a crawlspace with no vapor barrier. Vapor barriers should be installed in every crawlspace to prevent ground moisture from rising and building condensation on building materials. Vapor barriers should be made of at least 6mm plastic and should cover the entire crawl space area from wall to wall.
I read an article about aluminum wiring. I learned that there are ways to effectively correct most issues related to aluminum wiring installations. Though expensive and impractical, re-wiring the entire house with copper wiring is the most effective way. Using special connectors at each outlet and switch is also an option that prevents the aluminum wiring from being attached at receptacles.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
photo shows an unconditioned crawlspace with some visible vents. there appears to be electrical hazards as well as structural construction defects. Lots of debris is indicative that there are at least large enough holes into crawlspace to allow entry of larger sizes animals
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The photo above shows a tree that has been planted too close to a foundation. If allowed to continue this tree will grow much taller and the root system will continue to expand under the foundation which could cause cracking of the foundation.
If the foundation is pushed up the walls could crack as well.
Research & Writing Assignment:
photo addressed shows the construction of a home supported by stem walls. The flooring is supported at the top of the concrete wall and the remaining wall structure is wood frame with a brick veneer for aesthetic. there is an air gap to allow drainage
Research & Writing Assignment:
The article in Chinese dry wall is one more thing to be aware of during a home inspection. It would be counter intuitive for a seller to complain about any of the problems caused by Chinese dry wall to a home inspector. However if we did become aware of the problems caused by the inferior materials used in this product we might have an answer.
There are several ways of identifying Chinese dry wall in the article that could be very useful if the situation ever came up. Thanks for the info!
Research & Writing Assignment:
On reading the article on Hazzards in a Crawlspace, the article states many things about Asbestos insulation, there is only one way to know if it is Asbestos and that is having it tested, in an old home caution must be taken, if your not positive what is there, then it should not be disturbed.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Light switch found in bathroom has several issues, other then being cracked, one of the rockers are missing which could cause water or liquid to hit electrical connections as well as a small child could stick their fingers in and get an electrical shock. This is a safety issue and needs to be repaired immediately.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
For my written essay I have decided to put a picture that involves apparent water leakage into a crawl space. The crawl space is surrounded by concrete block, and it shows signs of moisture intrusion. The cement blocks have vertical dark water stains.
Research & Writing Assignment:
For my written portion research essay, I have decided to use an article about crawlspaces, and the dangers regarding regarding them. Just to name a few, mold and water damage, asbestos insulation, rodents, and a few sicknesses that is spread through pathogens from rodents.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The crawlspace needs comprehensive review by a waterproofing specialist immediately. The crawlspace has flooded. There is a flood control system and/or sump pump that has failed and submerged under water. There is standing water at most of the crawlspace surface area with electrical wiring that is laying in water – this is a shock/fire hazard. My view of the floor structure was limited due to the amount of water. Mold growth could be an issue and may exist in places I cannot see. See comments and recommendations below for improvements in addition to the immediate corrective action needed at the crawlspace. Hire a qualified waterproofing specialist for consultation and work needed.
