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...

  It is imperative to note that shingles should extend 1/4" and not extend beyond 3/4” (19 mm) past the drip edge. Overhanging shingles beyond this limit are not supported and may break off, leading to potential damage. Without an overhang, water may run down the side of the facia, causing moisture intrusion. Regrettably, this is not a consideration that most home inspectors take into account. Thus, it is crucial to check the roof's shingle overhang during inspections. Gutters are another crucial element that can prevent additional issues. Adequately installed gutters can save homeowners from potential headaches caused by water damage.

  A basic emergency supply kit should include items like: Water, at least one gallon per person per day Non-perishable food, for at least a few days Flashlight, with extra batteries First aid kit Battery-powered or hand crank radio Local maps Manual can opener Tissues Toilet paper and bags with ties Paper and pen or pencil You can store these items in an easy-to-carry container, like a backpack or duffle bag. Depending on your family's needs, you may also need: Medical supplies Pet food Contact lens solution Diapers You should also keep copies of important documents, such as: Medication list, Proof of address, Passports, Birth certificates, Insurance policies.

In the realm of modern technology, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) has become a ubiquitous feature that allows electronic devices to connect and communicate with each other without the use of physical cables or wires. This remarkable technology utilizes radio waves to transmit and receive data between devices that are equipped with WiFi capabilities. The idea of wireless communication was first demonstrated by ALOHAnet in 1971 when the potential of this technology was realized. However, it wasn't until 1974 that Vic Hayes popularized the use of his type of WiFi by introducing the ISM band for unlicensed use. Today, WECA "from Alliance & Interbrand coin the term WiFi" has become an indispensable feature that is widely used by a plethora of electronic devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. It typically operates on either 2.4 or 5 GHz frequencies to connect to the internet, making it an essential part of our daily lives. Now with that being said which one should ...

Doors and windows have a function and to keep them functional we have some advice. It is advisable to avoid leaving doors and windows open for an extended period as this can cause stress on latches and hardware. Such stress may result in the latches and hardware going out of square and not functioning correctly. Therefore, it is recommended that you keep doors closed at all times and avoid hanging heavy things on them. If you notice any issues with your door, you can replace a hinge screw with a longer wood screw to keep the door square. In addition, it is essential to lock your windows to enhance safety and energy conservation.

  The MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) measures how well air can flow through a filter while blocking dust and dirt particles. A higher MERV rating means less dirt and dust can pass through, keeping your air handler cleaner for longer. After conducting extensive research, I recommend a MERV 11 filter for your home, as it effectively traps large dust particles without limiting suction power. It's important to remember that your home is not a hospital and does not require the same level of air filtration. If your suction power is limited, it can affect the blower and make your home less comfortable in every room. Regularly changing your air filter is crucial in keeping your air handler in tip-top shape. I set an alarm on my phone to change mine out so I don't forget. The thickness of the filter determines how often you should replace it. 1 inch = 1 month. You may also get a washable filter and rinse and reuse it. This is a cost upfront, but in a year it will pay for itse...

  Maintaining a pool can be overwhelming. It involves checking for toxic chemicals and ensuring that the chlorine and acidity levels are balanced. Proper pump operation and filter cleaning are also necessary for keeping the pool in shape. If you're unsure about any of these aspects, it's best to take a water sample from your pool (about 15 inches below the surface) and consult with a pool store expert. They can provide valuable advice and guidance. If you don't know your pool's size, you can measure it with a tape measure by determining the length, width, and deepest depth. To measure the deepest part, use a string with a fishing sinker and mark where the line gets wet. Then, measure every foot until you reach the sinker. Most pools are either 5 or 10 feet deep, so deeper pools are rare.

If you happen to come across a Federal Pacific (Stub Lok) electrical panel, it is imperative that you take extreme caution. These panels are known for causing arc blasts, which can result in significant damage that may not be covered by insurance. As an experienced electrician, I highly advise against removing these panels, even for a 4-point inspection. In fact, during inspections in Florida, I find it best to leave that area blank and indicate that it is "unsafe to remove." Unfortunately, over the years, I have encountered many inspectors who insist on removing these panels, despite the potential risks. In one unfortunate instance in Texas, an individual who removed a Federal Pacific panel ended up needing skin grafts on his face. It should be noted that simply shutting off the main breaker may not always be sufficient, and the breakers themselves are often fragile and prone to breaking during removal. Additionally, the breakers can be loose, leading to potential mishaps wh...

Properly insulating air conditioning pipes is essential for protecting against thermal expansion, preventing pipe sweating, and maintaining refrigerants. However, it's important to note that the insulation can deteriorate over time due to exposure to the natural accruing weather, "rain, sleet, snow, and UV rays, which can lead to energy loss and equipment strain. To ensure that your HVAC system is running efficiently, it's critical to stay on top of regular maintenance and inspections. By doing so, you can identify any potential issues early and take corrective action to keep your system running smoothly. Also by maintaining this system, the system may last way longer than expected.

  The safety of decks is a top priority in our nation, with a staggering 6,000 individuals suffering injuries annually as a result of deck failure or porch collapse. It is common for individuals to forego the process of obtaining a permit for deck construction, believing it to be unnecessary. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that acquiring a permit is a necessary step towards ensuring safety, even if it may be time-consuming and inconvenient. Every deck must possess the ability to withstand extreme conditions, including the ability to hold up to 200 lbs of pressure on the railing. The spacing between spindles should be no less than 4 inches apart. The maximum height for deck steps should be no greater than 7-3/4 and remain consistent throughout. The state of joist hangers and ledger attachments is the most common concern I encounter. To attach the ledger board to the building frame, it is recommended to use Lag Bolts or Deck Ledger Board Fasteners. Joist hangers, on the other ...