I think I am starting a new series on construction defects that are very common here in North Central Washington.Let us start with one that is super simple to fix but is almost always missing. Enter the “Intersystem Bonding Terminal” or IBT as required by NEC 250 94. The intersystem Read more…
Stone veneer is a beautiful product but improper installation can lead to costly repairs and in this case replacement. Below is a brief and installation document on how to have this properly done to save you money in the log run. Briefing Document: Adhered Natural Stone Veneer Installation Source: Excerpts Read more…
I know I am wired a bit differently when it comes to insects. But I often find insects interesting.So I was doing a little cleaning and saw this cool looking bug crawling around and I had to investigate. What I find is a larva just meandering about and I take Read more…
You own a home and you want to do some of the repairs, home improvements or upgrades. Can you do it when it comes to contracting, electrical and/or plumbing?Well this depends. If you live in the home or you own but you are not renting, leasing or planning on selling Read more…
Well buyer beware or marketing groups should be slapped. I have just become aware of an issue with a product from the Oatey company.When installing a plumbing trap you must ensure the trap has a properly placed vent. In some situations this can become very difficult so there is an Read more…
Sometimes even the easy things can be hard. I was doing a home inspection on a new construction and checking the exterior receptacles and found that they were not “WR” Weather Resistant type receptacles. As well the cover for the receptacle has to be rated and marked “Extra Duty” when Read more…
With the cost per square foot in residential construction reaching new uncharted territory affordable housing is becoming tougher and tougher to come by.Many are choosing to use tiny home principles when building their new home and ADU (Additional Dwelling Units).One item is the “LOFT”, more importantly the sleeping loft. When Read more…
Type 2 surge protectors, also known as “whole-house surge protectors,” are designed to protect your home’s electrical systems from power surges that occur outside your home. These surges can be caused by lightning strikes, power outages, grid fluctuations and large appliances cycling in the home. Type 2 surge protectors work Read more…
Electrical fires can be caused by a variety of factors, but one common cause is the use of portable space heaters. These heaters, which are often used as a primary or supplementary source of heat in a room or area, can be a fire hazard if not used properly. Often Read more…
The decline of Craftsmanship