Advantages of Solar Energy

by Nick Gromicko

 

Solar energy offers considerable advantages over conventional energy systems by nullifying flaws in those systems long considered to be unchangeable. Solar power for home energy production has its flaws, too, which are outlined in another article, but they're dwarfed by the advantages listed below.

 

Solar energy is a great choice 

The following are advantages of solar energy:

Adobe Inspection

by Nick Gromicko

 

A Guide to Engineered Wood Sheathing for Inspectors and DIY-ers

by Fran J. Donegan for The Home Depot

 

Engineered wood sheathing

 

Adjustable Steel Columns

by Nick Gromicko and Kenton Shepard  

 

 

Adjustable steel columns, also known as screw jacks and beam jacks, are hollow steel posts designed to provide structural support. An attached Adjustable steel columnthreaded adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the height of the post.

 

A few facts about adjustable steel columns:

 

They are usually found in basements.

Identification of Problem Drywall

by Nick Gromicko and Dennis Rose

 

 

Acid Rain and Inspectors: Buildings at Risk

 

Abrasive Blasting for Mold Remediation

 

Mold in the Home

 

Health concerns related to the growth of mold in the home have been featured heavily in the news.  Problems ranging from itchy eyes, coughing and sneezing to serious allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and even the possibility of permanent lung damage can all be caused by mold, which can be found growing in the home, given the right conditions.

 

Performing a Garage Inspection

 

I was asked to inspect the exterior of a townhome. 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 wide open as I went through the garage.

 

Above:  trusses and truss connections

 

15 Tools That Every Homeowner Should Own

 

The following items are essential tools but this list is by no means exhaustive. Feel free to ask an InterNACHI inspector during your next inspection about other tools that you might find useful.

 

 1.  Plunger

10 Easy Ways to Save Energy in Your Home