Child-Proofing Windows and Stairs by Nick Gromicko The number one hazard for children is falls, which are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries in the U.S. for this age group. About 8,000 youngsters wind up in emergency rooms every day for injuries related to falling, adding up to almost 2.8 million per year. With those statistics
Ceramic Tile and Stone Inspection by Nick Gromicko Ceramic tile and stone are popular flooring materials, but each is subject to damage if not properly maintained. Ceramic tile, due to its low required maintenance, ease of cleaning, and resistance to physical damage, is one of the most popular flooring materials available today. Made primarily from clay
Central Humidifiers by Nick Gromicko and Kenton Shepard Humidifiers are devices that humidify air so that building occupants are comfortable. Central humidifiers are hard-wired into a house’s plumbing and forced-air heating systems. What is humidity? Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. “Relative humidity” signifies the amount of moisture in the air
Cement Substitutes by Nick Gromicko Cement substitutes are materials that may be substituted, to some degree, for cement in order to improve different properties, such as strength and longevity. The use of cement substitutes is generally encouraged because of the environmental advantages gained from their diversion from the waste stream, the reduction of the energy
Carpet Beetles by Nick Gromicko Carpet beetles are household pests capable of destroying various household items. Inspection and knowledge of their habits can prevent costly destruction. Life Cycle and Habits Female carpet beetles will lay 50 to 100 small, pearly-white eggs on protected surfaces near a food source, such as the lint around baseboards, in
Building a Home If you want to build a new home, there are things you need to know before you begin. Learn about construction standards and about buying land, so you know your rights. MPS Supplementing Model Building Codes The Minimum Property Standards (MPS) establish certain minimum standards for buildings constructed under HUD housing
Bug Zappers by Nick Gromicko A bug zapper is a popular exterior appliance installed by a homeowner or food handler to attempt localized control of flying insect populations. Its name comes from the characteristic "zap" sound produced when an insect is electrocuted. Around homes, they are primarily used to kill biting (female) mosquitoes, which create itchy
The Dangers of Brominated Fire Retardants by Nick Gromicko Brominated flame or fire retardants (BFRs) include a wide range of chemicals added to household furnishings and products to inhibit their ignition and reduce the chance of fire. In recent years, concern surrounding the toxicity of this class of chemicals has risen due to the widespread
Blower Door Testing by Nick Gromicko and Ethan Ward What is a Blower Door? Inspectors should become familiar with blower doors, as they can be a valuable tool in energy audits. A blower door is a powerful, variable-speed fan that can be temporarily mounted into an exterior door frame to provide controlled air flow for analysis. The way
Bidets by Nick Gromicko and Kenton Shepard Common in much of Europe and Asia, bidets are toilet-like plumbing fixtures designed to promote posterior hygiene. Although bidet prevalence in certain regions represents a humorous cultural distinction from American-style paper wiping, bidets do sport considerable convenience and comfort advantages. Bidets are becoming increasingly common in North America