Task 1: Decay Protection Inspection Essay
My business is located in southern Ohio meaning that it is in a CLASS II area (Moderate to Heavy) potential for termite infestation. This makes dilligence to inspection related to decay protection in residential homes vitally important. Neglect for inspection of decay protection in a new residential build has a high potential to create future issues if missed. The inspection should focus on adherance to building practices will help prevent situations conducive to infestation such as proper clearance between wood members in crawlspaces and the use of approved fasteners. Evaluating proper site drainage, properly treated lumber materials used, proper fasteners used, will help prevent future infestations as the structure ages.
Pre-drywall inspections geared toward decay protection allow the builder and the homeowner piece of mind. Knowing whether or not building materials have been properly installed with the correct steps taken for provide sufficient protection from water or moisture intrusion would, in my opinion, set my mind at ease.
Without taking the proper precautions, the cost of prolonged moisture exposure could be more expensive than taking the time to do the job correctly, and having the work inspected by a qualified inspector.
The importance of inspecting for allowable spans and load is important. I have seen a rotting deck that had been covered with new decking boards over the old. This was easily over the allowed span and load limit for the joists.
Neglecting inspections or cutting corners when checking for decay protection in a residential property can lead to serious headaches down the line. Wood rot, for example, can weaken a home’s structure, making floors sag or walls unstable. Add moisture to the mix, and you’ve got the perfect environment for mold, which can harm both the building and its occupants’ health. Small issues, like a poorly sealed window or clogged gutters, might seem minor but can snowball into costly repairs if ignored. Worse, decay in critical areas, like framing or joists, can compromise the home’s safety entirely. Regular, thorough inspections ensure that trouble spots are caught early, keeping repair costs down and preventing bigger disasters. Skimping on this step may save time today, but that could cost homeowners heavily in the future.
I am posting here as part of the course, specifically the first assignment “inspecting for decay”. This is a sort of essay, but considering this is a forum, any feedback is greatly appreciated.
When inspecting for decay as part of a pre-drywall inspection, it is important to approach the matter systematically, and with a plan, just like any other inspection should be. Drainage is a key factor in protecting a home from decay, often during a pre-drywall inspection the area around the home may not be at the finished grade yet, critical components such as eavestroughs and downspouts may also not be installed yet. So the inspector’s main focus should be on the things that are in place at the time of the inspection. Items such as proper spacing between crawlspace floor and any beams. Proper vapour retarter between concrete peers and foundations and components such as wooden sill plates. Also remember to check for proper wood treatments, on site and from factory.
It is essential for home buyers to have a pre-drywall inspection performed on their new home. Inspectors assess the floor framing to ensure that the home is constructed using the appropriate materials, and that builders adhere to the allowable spans of the lumber. Homes that utilize lumber with excessive spans may result in unwanted deflection to the floors and separations to the finish materials within the home. Repairs to these types of defects are much less invasive and less costly to correct during the framing stage of construction as opposed to post construction.
When it comes to residential construction, inspecting allowable spans and materials is not just a matter of code compliance. The risk of forgoing this kind of inspection could result in expensive fixes, risking the safety of you and your family, and the homes health as well. It is important to address problems such as deflection or sagging immediately before they become a bigger problem.
Task 1: Decay Protection Inspection Essay
Inspecting for decay protection is important with any type of construction. This includes buildings set on concrete foundations, concrete slab or wood foundations. Site construction is of major importance and ensuring water drains away from the building. Grading should slope 6 inches within the first 10 feet from the foundation. Grade should provide adequate clearance to the siding and in most instances is 6 inches or more.
Failure to meet these standards or identify potential issues with an inspection could mean issues. Some issues could take time to develop.
Looks like a great course!
ESSAY 1)
Decay protection of the structure should be constructed in a manner that prevents moisture from accessing wood components either from direct contact with the ground or wicking up/through concrete. This is typically completed by installing a moisture barrier between ground and wood/concrete and ensuring proper water drainage around the structure. If no moisture protection is in place between wood and slab, framing can absorb the moisture which softens wood and allows for movement of load transferring framing. moisture leads to decay in wood also. Water around the foundation leads to accelerated settlement which can also initiate foundation or framing movement. Being able to determine proper protection from moisture during the pre-drywall inspection can save the builder thousands in repairs and potentially the purchaser of the property.
ESSAY 2) FRAMING SPANS
Framing members have a maximum span rating depending on grade and type that determines the deflection of the member. Properly inspecting the wood for grade and type marks will verify if the structure is in compliance with IRC recommendations. Inspections not performed on properties can lead to serious integrity issues as well as legal issues.