Introduction

The primary function of the roof system is to protect against and manage the weather elements, particularly precipitation, thereby protecting the interior and structural components of the home.  For the purposes of a home inspection, the roof system consists primarily of the roof coverings, flashings and chimney.​

A rubble stone, or rubble trench foundation is an ancient construction practice, popularized in the early 20th century by American architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (June 8, 1867 – April 9, 1959.)  Loose stone or rubble reduce the volume of concrete and promote drainage, however this practice is not suitable for some soil conditions, or for excavated basement areas which will not support the rubble from both side of the foundation wall.  Other probelms include poor, or unsuitable mixtures of cement including lime mortar, the use of un-washed, native sand and other aggregates, and the use of salts to promote curing in cold weather.

​​The component of sloped roofs most vulnerable to early deterioration is the area around the flashings (chimneys, plumbing stacks, valleys, etc., and particularly skylights.) It is not uncommon for these areas to develop a leak before the rest of the roof material has aged significantly.

Photo: PCDI Canada
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​In response to a flood of inquiries about getting into the home inspection business, we offer the following notes on becoming a Professional Home Inspector, which we hope are helpful in evaluation of this profession as a career objective:

​​Partition separation is cracking that develops between interior partition walls and ceilings or floors, usually characterized by gaps opening in winter and closing in summer.

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​(NC)  Some homeowners just don't seem to get it! They expect their heating systems to keep chugging along, year after year, with little or no maintenance. Then they complain when their 20-year-old furnace breaks down which usually happens in middle of winter... largely because things things don't tend to break down when you're not using them!