Here are examples of common and not so common home deficiencies discovered by T2 Home Services
This page is continually updated. Check back often for newly discovered issues.
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Flexible appliance drain lines.
Although commonly sold as simple to install, worry free drain lines, these lines potentially add larger problems to the quick repair.
The corrugations in these lines do not allow water and other items to easily pass, and clog in a fraction of the time a smooth wall drain.
Don't install these, your asking for a headache down the road.
Pending Article
This space reserved for future article
Improper TPR Discharge
The blue pipe off the front of this water heater is 1/2" PEX pipe connected to the heaters TPR Valve. The valve is a 3/4" safety feature that releases water when it hits either 180 degrees or 150 psi.
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PEX pipe is rated 100 psi at 180°F.
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Additionally, the Pipe used here is undersized by 25%, increasing pressure to 187.5 psi.
Plastic dryer duct in crawl space
Plastic flex lines are not allowed for use with dryers due to multiple reasons. These lines are prone to clogging and deterioration from the hot exhaust.
Ducting in crawl space should be a smooth wall metal pipe with as few bends and length as possible.
Clogged Furnace Filter
A dirty furnace filter casuses your furnace work much harder than it was designed, reducing its service life, as well as pulling particulates into the furnace and duct work.
Recommend changing filters every 1-3 months.
Improper Flue Extension
Chimney flue must extend at least 4" above cap to prevent water and snow runoff from entering chimney and for proper drafting.
Cracks in Chimney cap are discussed in another segment.
Blocked Gutter Downspout
Not only has Landscaping has compromised the function of this downspout, it has created additional issues to the structure by not discharging water away from the home.
S-Trap
This configuration is known as an 'S-Trap" and is a code violation in nearly every state. Without proper venting, the water in this trap can be unknowingly siphoned out, allowing sewer gasses to vent through the fixture.
Here is a great video form "This Old House" explaining this issue.
(I will talk about the flex drain in another segment)
Deteriorating Sewer Line
Cast Iron sewer drain lines where utilized in homes through the mid 1970's, and can last a long time. However, there are forces at work that can significantly reduce lifespan and result in failure.
One is exterior or ground moisture breaking down the pipe from the exterior with rust as seen here.
Another is sewer gases eating away at the pipe from the inside. This is usually not discovered until it is too late.
This is a "Anti-Tip Device" has been required and included on every free standing kitchen range sold since 1991. However many are either not installed, or not installed properly.
From 1980 through 2008, CPSC staff is aware of 38 fatalities associated with range tip-overs. Twenty (53 percent) of these range tip-over fatalities involved children aged one year to five years old.
Improperly installed Fireplace vent
Example of a not so common issue that needs corrected. Venting system, although proper type is used, has not been installed per manufacturers instructions.
See picture on right.
A stack of blocks is not a solution for a vent. The vent should be tied to the structure utilizing straps and hangers specified by the manufacturer.
In the event this block fails, severe damage can occur up to an including a house fire.
Damaged Exhaust Fan vent duct in attic.
A compressed and damaged bathroom exhaust fan in attic space is a recipe for additional issues.
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Reduced flow preventing fan from performing as intended.
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Leaks can allow warm moist air to be vented into attic causing organic growths such as mold and mildew.
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Moisture can also cause delamination of roof sheathing.
Rusted Roof Vent
Roofer failed to replace this rusted roof vent when replacing the roof. With this much rust now, it is likley to be rusted through before it is time to replace this roof again.
