I found it interesting at how susceptible to collapse masonry chimneys are in are in an earthquake. For example, according to the article, “More than half of the homes in Washington State inspected by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following the Nisqually Earthquake in 2001”. Given that represents a considerably high percentage, I found it surprising that of the five common defeciencies mentioned in the article on collapse, only one had to do with proper supporting of the structure in areas of high seismic activity.
This photo depicts a chimney in need of and in the process of repointing. The brick chimney can be destroyed by water intrusion and ensuring against that by repointing any damage will extend the life of the chimney stack. The mortar observed in the first, or the “before” image, was eroding away and left cavities and shelves that water could pool in/on. The “after” image shows mortar filled in the gaps to the edges to prevent water intrusion.
The image shows a ventilated fireplace. The sealed glass firebox prevents the combustible materials surrounding it from being a hazard. A closed combustion system like this is less likely to experience backdrafting. The heat radiating into the room is circulated with a fan, and the ventilated unit exhausts horizontally through the outside wall.
The image I selected is useful in helping an inspector when applying the standards of practice regarding chimney heights and clearances. It is a graph that applies the 3-2-10 rule whereby a chimney must extend not less that three feet from the high end side as it penetrates the roof, with a minimal two foot clearance over the highest roof point within ten feet of its exit through the roof cover.
I chose the article titled “Chimney Inspection: Preventing Collapse”. The article spoke about the reasons a chimney may collapse such as seismic activity and soil movement. The article outlined signs to be looking for that will alert you to anything not as it should be like vertical cracking or seperating from the main building structure. There was further explanation of maintainance to be done such as repointing that will prolong the chimney stack from damage or collapse.
Here you can see a penetration at the exterior of the home that appears to be a former dryer vent line that is not being used anymore, of course i recommended sealing this penetration so as to stop rodents or moisture from entering.
I chose to read the article on chimney clearance statutes as it pertained to the testing that i am taking at this time, of course i found this article to be useful as this info is needed for my testing
Voids in seal was noted where chimney flue penetrates structure. Evidence of moisture was noted inside factory built fireplace cabinet. Position stop safety clamp is not installed on damper system to prevent full closure of damper as required for use with gas fire logs.
Some of the common deficient items observed when inspecting attic pull down ladders are 1) Weakening of the truss structure by improperly modifying the truss system, 2) Securing ladder system with improper nails or screws and when proper fasteners are used there are insufficient number of fasteners 3) Attic pull-down ladders are cut too short or too long and this can cause pressure at the folding hinge.
Based upon the attached picture of a wood burning stove, it appears that several things would require attention and need to be noted in an inspection report. The wood stacked near the stove needs to be further away. The wood flooring and rug in front of the stove do not appear to be the suggested minimum distance of 16" in front and 8" on each side for this style/size of wood burning stove.
I randomly selected the article “For Members: A Letter Explaining Your InterNACHI Home Inspector Certification”, and I was pleasantly surprised at what an enjoyable read it was. I never really considered that such a letter may be needed but after reading the above article I can now understand how such a letter would be a great tool to have on hand. The more information you can provide to a client/potential client with regard to your training and certification, the better as it may help alleviate any hesitations they may have.
While inspecting a fireplace at a residential home I observed a fire extinguisher located near by. Upon closer inspection I noticed the extinguisher was a a.b.c extinguisher witch is good to put out wood, trash, and electrical fire. It was up to date on its inspections, the pin was also intact, and the extinguisher was charged.
I like how easy it it to gain information about many different things, I learned how to save electricity and energy through different techniques like getting a thankless water heater and useing incandescent lighting and many other things that I won’t go in to detail about.
Cracks in concrete driveway could be caused by many different reasons, improper foundations, weather freeze and thaw cycle, tree root growth and even heavy loads on the driveway itself, with proper installation and maintenance to your driveway will help prevent driveway damage and extend the lifespan of your driveway.
This is a free standing wood stove located in the living room. Stove pipe is in good condition and made of 6" black pipe, Hearth is in good condition and is made out of 2" solid stone, the the back walls are constructed with non combustible decorative Veneer stone. I would fail this because there is no protection on the floor in front of the stove from amber’s. There is only 6" of stone in front of the stove. A hearth extension is my recommendation.
When inspecting a garage be sure to notice if any alterations to the trusses have been added, if any are noticed they should be called in your report out and suggesting that a certified structural engineer will be needed for further evaluation.
Fire Safety for the Home; Another great article that has in depth scope of how to be aware and protect you and your home from a potential fire. Having a plan and testing it by acting out a fire drill is in my opinion the best practice for every home. Making sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and picking a day that you can remember to change the batteries is key.
Efficient wood burning stoves use a gasket made of braided fibreglass rope, it’s held in place by a high temp glue and is a wear item to be inspected and replaced when ineffective. The door seal allows the draft control to be effective in limiting combustion air into the stove thus allowing longer burn times.
The rain cap was missing which can help protect the firebox and chimney from moisture damage. Spalling damaged bricks were noted on the chimney above the roof; as well as, there are loose bricks and mortar on the chimney. Water was also ponding in front of the chase. Recommend contacting a qualified professional for further evaluation and repair.
Burning pressure treated or painted wood can cause serious health issues as the products applied to the wood is released into the air. This can cause respirator problems and other health issues, not to mention the negative effects on the environment and animals.