Dirk's Blog

Water hammer arrestors, also known as water hammer arresters or simply water arrestors, are devices used in plumbing systems to address the issue of water hammer. Water hammer is a common and potentially damaging problem in plumbing systems. Water arrestors serve several important purposes:  - Preventing Noise: Water hammer refers to the loud banging or knocking noise that occurs when water flow is suddenly stopped or redirected. This noise can be disruptive, especially in quiet environments. Water arrestors help dampen the noise by reducing the sudden pressure fluctuations in the pipes.  - Protecting Pipes and Fixtures: The force of the water hammer can exert considerable stress on pipes, fittings, and fixtures within the plumbing system. Over time, this can lead to structural damage and potential leaks. Water arrestors absorb the shock and reduce the strain on the plumbing infrastructure, increasing its longevity.  - Preventing Leaks and Damage: A water hammer can cause...

  Thermal imaging, also known as infrared thermography, is a crucial tool in the field of home inspections for several reasons. It allows inspectors to detect and assess various issues that may not be readily apparent through a visual inspection alone. Here are some key reasons why thermal imaging is important in home inspections: Detecting Hidden Problems: Thermal imaging can reveal hidden issues that are not visible to the naked eye. It captures temperature variations, making it effective at identifying problems like water leaks, insulation deficiencies, and electrical hotspots behind walls, ceilings, and floors. Identifying Moisture Intrusion: Moisture-related problems, such as water leaks, mold growth, and water damage, can be challenging to spot without thermal imaging. Infrared cameras can detect temperature differences associated with wet or damp areas, helping inspectors pinpoint the source of moisture. Energy Efficiency Assessment: Thermal imaging is invaluable for assessi...

  The origins of clay roofing tiles can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence of their use dating back to the Neolithic Age in China around 10,000 B.C. Additionally, the Middle East was an early adopter of clay tiles shortly thereafter, with these regions playing a significant role in spreading the use of clay tiles throughout Asia and Europe. Today, clay tiles are still a popular roofing material due to their durability and longevity. In fact, they are capable of withstanding wind speeds exceeding 125 mph and can last for over 100 years. It's worth noting that it's not uncommon for the fasteners used to secure the roof to the house to fail before the tiles themselves do. However, it's important to keep in mind that the underlayment typically has a lifespan of around 20 years. All in all, clay roofing tiles are a dependable and dependable choice for those looking for a long-lasting roofing solution. The more I see these types of roofing material the more I am convi...

  Proper installation of kickout flashing, otherwise known as diverter flashing, can make a significant difference to the overall water protection of a building. This crucial piece of metal is designed to redirect water away from a structure when a roof surface ends at a wall. Neglecting to install kickout flashing can result in water damage and costly repairs. Kickout flashing is responsible for diverting water into a roof gutter, thus preventing water from penetrating the building and causing significant damage. The angle of the flashing is crucial, as it should extend at least 4 inches up the sidewall and have an approximate angle of 110 degrees. It's worth noting that kickout flashing is required where the eave of a sloped roof intersects with a vertical sidewall. A common scenario is where the eaves of a garage roof meet the wall of a two-story home. Proper installation of kickout flashing is a necessary detail that should not be overlooked, as it can prevent major water damag...

The superstition surrounding Friday the 13th being an unlucky day has a long and complex history that is influenced by various cultures. Despite not being entirely clear how this specific combination of day and date became associated with bad luck, there are a few theories and historical factors that might have contributed to the superstition: 1. Christian Influence suggests that the fear of Friday the 13th has roots in Christian tradition. According to the belief, Jesus and his 12 apostles were at the last supper. This led to an ominous pairing and unfortunate events since it was on a Friday and the number of people was 13. 2. Norse Mythology has a story about a banquet in Valhalla where 12 gods were present, and the trickster god Loki was not invited. But he crashed the party and became the 13th guest, which eventually caused the death of the beloved god Balder. 3. Historical events that contributed to the superstition include the execution of the Knights Templar on Friday, October 1...

  When constructing a building, the foundation plays a critical role in ensuring stability. It is responsible for supporting the entire structure and preventing it from settling or moving. Surprisingly, foundations themselves can shift throughout the year due to factors such as soil movement caused by water, the slope of the land, or nearby trees. This is why it's crucial to regularly check the foundation of any building to ensure that it is level and not compromising the rest of the structure. If a foundation shifts, it can cause issues such as misaligned doors and moisture seeping through walls and windows.  To avoid these problems, it's essential to use the appropriate type of foundation for the building and to avoid using adjustable jacks as a long-term solution. If using block foundations, they should be adequately aligned and laid upright on a concrete pad to distribute the weight evenly. If the foundation appears compromised or is leaning, it should be inspected by a st...

  A garage Door Opener's typical life expectancy is 10-15 years, keeping up with maintenance can help increase the lifespan. Listen to the door open and close. Louder noises suggest resistance and is working harder. An opener's life expectancy is determined by how hard the motor has to work. Ensure safety cables and torsion springs remain intact. These will go out and need to be replaced as time goes on. Tighten any loose nuts or bolts as they appear. View and replace rollers as needed, steel or nylon. Nylon rollers with ball bearings are most preferred and will keep the unit quiet. Lubricating the moving components will add years of operation to your garage door. Use white lithium grease or garage door lubricant on the opener's chain, screw, springs, and hinges (any moving part). Test the garage door balance by disconnecting the opener, pulling the release handle (usually a red cord), and manually opening the door halfway up. If it doesn't stay still, the counterweigh...