Research & Writing Assignment:
I studied a picture showing the correct installation of a vapor barrier. A vapor barrier will prevent moisture in the ground rising into the crawlspace. A correct barrier will be minimum six millimeter poly, overlapped six inches at the seams as well as going six inches up the wall and will be sealed with tape.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Inspected crawl space has proper 6-mil vapor retarding barrier affixed to the piers and edge of crawl space. There are no visible signs of moisture penetrating crawl space under home. All supporting structures are dry and in good condition. All piers have proper tie-downs attached to support beam.
Research & Writing Assignment:
It is always important to have the correct PPE (personal protective equipment) when inspecting a homes crawl space. While still a visual inspection, the inspector still must access a tight space that is home to many hazards, and is sometimes the most dangerous part of a home inspection.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
In this photo the home owner did properly install the vapor barrel in the crawl space they use 6 mil plastic and over lapped all of the seems with duct tape and also ram plastic up the wall 6 inches
Research & Writing Assignment:
I learned the importance of installing a vapor barrel over the soil to prevent moisture intrusion in the crawlspace this will expand the life expectancy of the floor and rim joists throughout the crawlspace and assist with ventilating the space.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Several defects found within the crawlspace. This photo was shot through the perimeter grating due to no readily accessible access to the unconditioned space.
As seen, the improper orientation of cinder blocks used as joist supports. This is a defect and correction is needed.
Joists measured to be 12" above grade when modern standards require 18" of clearance. This is a limiting factor which restricts the serving possibilities for all underfloor pipeline, wiring, ext.
The unfinished space also contains a vast amount of debre.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Crawlspace venting The crawlspace is not conditioned and is not accessible. There are 2 vent holes on each side of the house and are approximately 12 high X 18 wide with a total square footage of vent space of 12 square feet. The house is 720 square feet, using the 1 square foot per 150 square feet of vent space, the house needs a minimum of 7.5 square feet of vent space. This house has ample vent space. The vents are not located within 3 feet of the corner of the house, but are on all 4 sides of the house giving cross ventilation.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Crawlspace construction The following should be inspected:
A minimum of 12 to the bottom of the beam and 18 to the bottom of the joists
floor joists should be 16 on center
wood bearing support columns should be minimum 4 X 4
load bearing points and follow joists to end, joist ends should be a minimum 0f 1 1/2 over bearing
clearance around end of girder for ventilation
check fasteners for toe nailing and shims
cantilevered joists should follow 1/3 ratio
wood sill plate should be anchored with anchor bolts, minimum diameter
check for evidence of damage from water or wood destroying organisms
Research & Writing Assignment:
“Crawlspace Hazards and Inspection”
Crawlspaces are the most hazardous portion of a home inspection. The area may contain exposed wiring, pests, structure failure, mold/fungal growth, standing water or sewage, asbestos insulation, and even toxic pathogens that can cause death! It is wise to proceed with the upmost caution when entering.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
this photo is of a crawlspace in a house that was inspected. the picture shows efflorescence on the block foundation that indicates moisture has moved through the wall. at the exterior of the house in this location a concrete patio is present with a slope towards the house that has created the conditions for water to sit on the exterior of the wall.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the article called “crawlspace hazards and inspection”. the article talks about the possible dangers found in some crawlspaces. some of the hazards are asbestos, pests, sewage, structural collapse, tetanus, mold and electrical hazards. the article also mentions not to go into a crawlspace without proper ppe and proper awareness.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This image depicts an improper penetration in a main structural beam. This is the type of defect that could be found during a crawlspace inspection. Any large cuts in structural members should be reported as either deficient or in need of further review.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Crawlspace Inspection
An inspection of the crawlspace determined that the bare dirt floor was covered in some areas with a plastic material, and that the space was ventilated. Additionally, as shown in the picture, the crawlspace was insulated with fiberglass batting between the joists.
Crawlspace Observations
Because the crawlspace is vented and is in Florida where it is humid for much of the year, there should be more robust 6 mil polyethylene laid down within the space. Additionally, the fact that the crawlspace is insulated may be cause for concern because it will likely retain moisture. The client will be notified of this cause for concern.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The article entitled Crawlspace Hazards and Inspection by Nick Gromicko provided information about potential hazards that inspectors may encounter while inspecting crawlspaces. I chose this article because I would be pretty likely to encounter some hazards in crawlspaces in Florida. The first fact I learned form this article was that crawlspaces are among the most likely places in a house in which the hantavirus may be encountered, and that it can lead to Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome, for which there is no treatment or cure. The next fact I learned was that animals and other pests may feel cornered and threatened when encountered in a crawlspace because the inspector may be blocking their means of escape. The final fact I learned was that mold that is present may cause harm due to mycotoxins, which can be absorbed by breathing or through touch. Overall, this was a very valuable article to read because it helps the aspiring home inspector to have an idea of the hazards and the ways in which he may protect himself from those hazards.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The article I read discussed the importance of moisture management in a crawl space. Whether vented, unvented, or conditioned space - the crawlspace must have a method in place for prevention of moisture intrusion and, if necessary, removal via a sump pump or similar system.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The wall in this crawlspace has a vertical crack. the crack measures to be less than 1/4 inch wide. I recommend having further evaluation by a structural engineer. There are also many electrical branch conductors that should be better supported and a lot of debris is present.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The illustration titled, “Crawlspace/Basement Sill is Vulnerable” explains how crawlspace venting can create moisture issues. The damp outside air can easily enter the crawlspace and, depending on the dew point, the moisture can condense on the building materials. The materials can soak up the moisture and begin to deteriorate them. The maximum amount of moisture allowed is 20% on any wooden component.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Crawlspaces generally have many issues to deal with. In this picture there was a very active leak at a drain line. Often times there is old construction debris and I very seldom see a vapor barrier installed at all. Access to the entire crawlspace is generally limited on the majority of homes we see.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Crawlspace Hazards and Inspection was the article I read to correspond with the course. One of the most compelling arguments that stood out to me is how crawlspaces go unnoticed and inspected for long periods of time. This may be something that I add to my reports on homes with crawlspaces is to recommend to my clients that the crawlspace is regularly inspected for issues.
