Unvented Crawlspaces

In most climate zones, conditioned crawlspaces perform better than vented crawlspaces in terms of safety, health, comfort, durability, and energy consumption. Research has demonstrated how these conditioned crawlspaces also do not cost more to construct than vented crawlspaces. Crawlspace venting is a widely accepted business practice across the U.S. However, in humid climates, the warm humid air entering the crawlspace is more likely to condense on crawlspace framing than it will to help dry out the crawlspace. This is because the outside air can often have a dew point that is higher than the interior crawlspace framing surface temperature. As evidence, existing vented crawlspaces have experienced serious moisture and mold problems, costing builders and homeowners significant resources to repair.

Notches in the middle third of a floor joist are not permitted. Holes are not permitted to be located within 2 inches of the top or bottom edge of a floor joist. The maximum depth of a notch in a floor joist (that is not in the middle third of the joist) is the actual depth of the joist divided by 6. The maximum diameter of a bored hole through a floor joist (that is not in the middle third of the joist) is the actual depth of the joist divided by 3.

Crawlspaces

Access openings must be a minimum of 18 inches high by 24 inches wide. Access to all under-floor spaces must be provided with access openings through the floor not smaller than 18 inches by 24 inches (457 mm by 610 mm).

Check for downspouts diverters not discharging water far enough away from the house. Check floor lawn irrigation systems spraying water against the house foundation, and check for gardens or planters that are up against the house. These may be causing wet soil pressure problems for the structure.

nearby vegetation

The inspector is required to report vegetation growing near the home according to the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. The home inspector should note the existence of any trees near the home, because the roots may affect the foundation or underground drainage pipes. Plants growing next to a house could raise the soil level too high against the foundation.

steep slope

The home inspector should note if a home is on a steep slope and, therefore, subject to erosion or movement. The maximum slope of a lot should be roughly 1-in-2.

There are two common styles of wood framing: balloon and platform. The main difference between balloon and platform framing is apparent at the floor lines. The balloon wall studs extend from the sill of the foundation all the way to the top plate of the second floor. The platform framed wall, on the other hand, is independent for each floor.

A slab-on-grade foundation is a type of foundation consisting of a structural concrete slab poured onto the ground, but usually, there is a layer of gravel and a vapor retarder between the ground and concrete. View illustration of a slab-on-grade installation. No accessible space exists in slab-on-grade construction. Slab-on-grade foundations are popular in areas where there is a high water table. For example, there are very few full basements in Southern Florida. In general terms, a slab-on-grade foundation is poured on the grade or ground. complements of InterNachi @ www.nachi.org

What's an Arc Flash?

An arc flash occurs when a flashover of electric current leaves its intended path and travels through the air from one conductor to another, or to neutral or ground. It often happens unexpectedly and can be explosive but brief, or it can last seconds and be rather visually spectacular. It can cause a little damage or it can disable a system and require the replacement of equipment. An arc flash of any size is quite dangerous because its path is unpredictable; it will be attracted to the nearest item with the greatest conductivity, such as an unsuspecting rodent or house pet, or a person. An arc flash can cause a serious electrical burn or even fatal electrocution.

All electrical systems require a means of disconnection so that the service can be shut down quickly if any dangerous conditions exist. In this section, we will look at the types of disconnects, and the common problems that need to be reported.