There have been a lot of blogs about various things that are found on home inspections.  This one is structural.  We inspectors spend a lot of time in crawl spaces, looking at many things.  One common one is caused by plumbers and HVAC technicians.  This isn't to badmouth them.  They have their job to do and may not know about how structures are supported.

Deeply cut joist

The above joist has been deeply cut to make room for the waste pipe.  Now this particular picture isn't of a brand new house, but the effect is still there.  This joist was originally a 2X10.  With more than half of it notched out it is effectively a 2X4.  Definitely not strong enough to support floor loads.

Completely cut joist

This joist has a section completely cut out of it to accomadate heating ducts.  This was a retro fit furnace duct, the HVAC tech decided that that section of floor didn't need support (I guess). 

In both instances, with a little thought, these cutouts could have been avoided.  What were they thinking?

David Helm, Inspector, Helm Home  Inspections Bellingham, Washington  Licensed Home  Inspector #272                                                       WSDA  Licensed Structural Pest Inspector  #69844              http://www.helmhomeinspections.com           HelmHomeInspections@yahoo.com                                                                               

 
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10 Comments on No Support

MAY
13
2008
1 Featured Post

wow - how does that affect the closing? What happens next?

2:36pm • #1
915,998 Points 177 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

David, I see you need by "Universal no sawzalls for plumbers" sign.sawzalls

2:42pm • #2

Thomas , as Home Inspectors we do not determine how it affects closing.

We show the problem , and often will discuss the repercussions, but never do we use the word negotiate in a report as it would be overstepping our limits.

The Agent and Lawyer are the ones whom determine these things.They are trained for it.

Some Clients may make a big deal out of such a problem , while others may have a u ncle in carpentry whom will cut in a new joist at little cost.

It is what it is.

11:10pm • #3
MAY
14
2008

Charlie, I like your no sawzall sign.  I need to get some. . . and we need a similar sign for HVAC techs.

Thomas, Bob's response was pretty much what I would have said.  I do, since I have a thirty year background as a builder/carpenter, sometimes suggest simple fixes; and both of these situations do have simple fixes.

Bob, Thanks for jumping in.

9:55pm • #4
JAN
01
2009

I thought I got all the doozies...

2:50pm • #6
JAN
03
2009

Hi David, great catch on the basement inspection have a happy and healthy new year.

8:34am • #7
JAN
05
2009
630,902 Points 5 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Called Shot Master

It really makes you wonder. I would think they would have better sense but probably think they would be long gone if anything ever "gave way".

Happy New Year my friend. How cold is it up your way?

9:45pm • #8
630,902 Points 5 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Called Shot Master

It really makes you wonder. I would think they would have better sense but probably think they would be long gone if anything ever "gave way".

Happy New Year my friend. How cold is it up your way?

9:45pm • #9
JAN
06
2009


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David Helm, Bellingham, Wa. Licensed Home Insp

Bellingham, WA

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Helm Home Inspections

Address: 4186 Rural Avenue, Bellingham, Wa , 98226

Office Phone: (360) 739-5751

Cell Phone: (360) 739-5751

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My blogs offer a wide range of topics, from home inspection to cooking to woodworking to gardening to local area information and photos. I love talking about Bellingham, Washington and its surrounding area. Home inspection is my work; life is my passion.


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