Backdrafting is the reverse flow of gas in the flues of fuel-fired appliances that results in the intrusion of combustion byproducts into the living space. Many fuel-fired water heaters and boilers use household air and lack an induced draft, which makes them especially vulnerable to backdrafting when indoor air pressure becomes unusually low. Inspectors should […]
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that forms from incomplete combustion of fuels, such as natural or liquefied petroleum gas, oil, wood or coal. Facts and Figures 480 U.S. residents died between 2001 and 2003 from non-fire-related carbon-monoxide poisoning. Many experts believe that CO poisoning statistics understate the problem. Because the symptoms […]
The History of Concrete
The time period during which concrete was first invented depends on how one interprets the term “concrete.” Ancient materials were crude cements made by crushing and burning gypsum or limestone. Lime also refers to crushed, burned limestone. When sand and water were added to these cements, they became mortar, which was a plaster-like material used […]
Underground Fuel Storage Tank Hazards and Inspection
Buried storage tanks that contain petroleum and other hazardous chemicals may pose a safety hazard to those living in homes nearby and significant financial liability to the owner. Underground storage tank inspectors should try to identify whether a property contains an underground storage tank, whether it is in service or inactive, and what it holds, and […]
Energy-Efficient Space Heaters
Why use space heaters? Small, portable space heaters are often used when the main heating system is inadequate, or when it would be too costly to operate or install central heating. They can also be useful to supplement adequate central heating in certain instances, such as heating one room that will be primarily occupied while […]
Wind Turbines
Wind turbines are structures that capture the wind’s kinetic energy and convert it into electricity. The basic method by which turbines produce electricity is quite simple, and inspectors may want to familiarize themselves with these increasingly popular constructions. Turbine blades are shaped in such a way that wind causes them to rotate, which then makes a chain of […]
How Much Energy does it take to Operate Your House?
We are a Certified Energy Home Inspector Most people are not aware how much energy and money it takes to operate their home after they move in. Please watch the informative video below to help understand why having a Certified Energy Home Inspector is so valuable. How much energy does it take to operate your […]
Barn Inspection
A barn is an agricultural building, typically located on a ranch or farm (or former ranch or farm), and used for a variety of purposes, including: the storage of farming vehicles, equipment and supplies; housing livestock; storing hay and other livestock food supplies; and as a covered work area. Inspectors who work in rural areas […]
Barbeque Safety
With barbeque season already here, homeowners should heed the following safety precautions in order to keep their families and property safe. Propane grills present an enormous fire hazard, as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is aware of more than 500 fires that result annually from their misuse or malfunction. The following precautions are recommended specifically when using propane […]
A Garage Inspection
Above: garage exterior This is the exterior of a townhome I was asked to inspect. During the inspection, I ran into a neighbor who told me that the roof of another garage, identical to the one pictured above two buildings down, had collapsed the previous winter under a snow load. So, I decided to keep my eyes […]