Structural Components Inspection

A set of flashcards designed to review key concepts related to structural components and walls during a home inspection.

What is a bearing wall?

A wall that provides structural support and cannot be removed without additional support such as beams and columns.

What defines a partition wall?

A non-structural wall used to divide spaces that can be removed without affecting the building's stability.

Where might you visibly identify wall framing in a house?

Typically in a basement, especially in unfinished areas.

What is the consequence of cutting or notching beams?

It compromises their structural integrity and should not be done.

What materials can beams be made of?

Beams can be constructed from solid wood, steel, aluminum, or laminated veneer lumber (LVL).

What do you recommend if you see notches or holes in wooden beams?

Further evaluation by a qualified carpenter.

What are piers used for in construction?

Short columns primarily used for support in crawl spaces.

What should never be used as shims for beams?

Wood or clay brick materials.

What type of foundation is built directly on the ground without any access beneath it?

Slab on grade foundation.

What are some foundation types with varying access and construction methods?

Basement, crawl space, and slab on grade.

What is a typical sign of structural issues in a foundation?

Vertical and horizontal cracks, especially if they widen.

Define frost heave in relation to foundations.

Movement caused by the expansion of frozen moisture which can lift the footings.

What is the role of footings in a foundation?

To provide stable support for the foundation and to prevent movement.

What should you do if you encounter horizontal cracks in a foundation?

Recommend further evaluation due to the likelihood of structural issues.

Why is checking the base of wooden columns important?

To identify possible rot, especially in damp environments.

When should you recommend monitoring a crack in a foundation?

When it appears to be stable and shows no signs of movement.

What should you recommend if a property is under a high water table?

Use sump pumps to control water levels, but expect ongoing monitoring.

What could multiple cracks in the same area indicate?

They often signal potential structural issues.

What is the recommended action if cut or missing joists are found?

Further evaluation by a qualified framing contractor.

What do you report if foundation walls are accessed during inspection?

Document if the foundation type is slab on grade, crawl space, or basement.

What are some consequences of building on unstable soil?

Cracking and shifting of foundations and walls, leading to structural issues.

What is the primary concern when inspecting a load-bearing wall?

Idenifying whether it can be removed without additional structural support.

What is a sign of differential movement in masonry?

Cracking patterns that indicate parts of the structure are moving independently.