Vermiculite by Nick Gromicko and Rob London Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral composed of shiny flakes that resemble mica. When heated rapidly to a high temperature, this crystalline mineral expands into low-density, accordion-like strands. In this form, vermiculite is a lightweight, odorless and fire-resistant material that has been used in numerous applications, such as
Venomous Pests by Nick Gromicko, Rob London and Kenton Shepard Venomous pests are found virtually everywhere, and homeowners may encounter one while living on the property. Bees and Wasps Bees and wasps are flying, stinging insects commonly found in and around homes throughout much of the world. Stings from these insects are normally not serious,
U-Factor Ratings for Windows by Nick Gromicko and Ethan Ward When quantifying the energy efficiency of a window assembly, the rate of loss of non-solar heat can be expressed as its U-factor (or U-value). Understanding the U-factors of windows is helpful for inspectors performing energy audits, as well as for consumers planning a new build or updating a house with
Tyvek® by Nick Gromicko and Rob London Tyvek® is a brand of synthetic, high-density polyethylene fiber used in a variety of applications. It was first discovered by DuPont researcher Jim White in 1955, and officially trademarked as Tyvek® 10 years later by DuPont, which continues to manufacture the material today. Tyvek® is formed when polyethylene fibers,
Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac by Nick Gromicko and Rob London In almost all suburban and rural regions of the United States and Canada, inspectors run the risk of developing potentially debilitating, allergic symptoms from exposure to urushiol-secreting plants. This potent, clear oil causes an itching rash (called contact dermatitis) in 350,000 people
Tree Dangers by Nick Gromicko and Rob London Although trees are generally a desirable feature of home landscaping, they can pose a threat to buildings in a number of different ways. Inspectors may want to educate themselves about tree dangers so that they can inform their clients about potentially dangerous situations. Tree Roots and FoundationsContrary to popular
Solid Brick vs. Brick Veneer by Nick Gromicko and Rob London Solid brick and brick veneer structures use some of the same construction materials, but their installation techniques are different. Solid brick houses (also known as double-brick and solid masonry houses) are built from either two layers of brick, or a layer of concrete block and an adjacent layer of brick
Shrinkage Cracks in Concrete by Nick Gromicko and Kenton Shepard, InterNACHI's Director of Green Building Newly-placed concrete develops tensile stresses as differences in temperature and moisture content develop in the drying concrete. These stresses are relieved by cracking. A number of factors can influence the development of such stresses. Control of Crack Locations Control joints
TPR Valves and Discharge Piping by Nick Gromicko, Rob London and Kenton Shepard TPR (temperature pressure relief) valves are safety devices installed on water heating appliances such as boilers and domestic water supply heaters. TPRs are designed to automatically release water in the event that pressure or temperature in the water tank exceeds safe levels.
To Buy or to Rent? by Nick Gromicko and Rob London In many places where real estate advice is offered, from the Internet to advice columns and late-night infomercials, listeners and readers are told some variation of: “Across every income bracket, homeowners are rich and renters are poor.” And, on the whole, this is true; examine