National Home Inspector Exam Prep Podcast

Send us Fan Mail Deck failures cause more injuries and deaths than any other home system component. This first of three deck episodes focuses on materials, flashing, and the critical ledger attachment. We begin with materials: - Preservative-treated wood (noting the 2003-2004 switch from CCA to more corrosive ACQ/MCQ/CA-C) - Naturally durable woods (redwood, cedar) - Composite decking materials -...

Send us Fan Mail Part 2 continues our comprehensive deck coverage, focusing on support structures and framing—components that must work together to create a safe, durable deck. Posts, footings, and beams: - Recommended post materials (preservative-treated or naturally durable wood, Schedule 40 steel) - Maximum post heights (14' for most wood, 8' for 4x4s) - Beam construction (typically 2...

Send us Fan Mail Our final episode covers deck stairs, handrails, guards, plus a complete examination of garage vehicle doors and operators. Deck stairs and landings: - Stringer attachment (hangers preferred; nails common but may withdraw) - Cut stringers from 2x12 lumber (2x10 acceptable if reinforced) - Maximum 6' span between stringer supports - Drop header concerns (bolt attachment accept...

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the first episode of our Home Inspection Training podcast! In this foundational episode, we explore the essential scope of exterior component inspections and introduce the critical terminology every home inspector must know. We'll cover what's included in a comprehensive exterior inspection: wall coverings (cladding), trim, eaves, flashing, sealants, windows,...

Send us Fan Mail In this comprehensive episode, we dive deep into the world of exterior wall coverings and their associated trim. Wall coverings serve two critical functions: shedding liquid water and protecting the water-resistive barrier beneath. We explore the three categories of veneers: attached veneers (like siding and EIFS), anchored veneers (brick and natural stone), and adhered veneers (s...

Send us Fan Mail Water is the enemy of every home, and proper flashing and sealants are your first line of defense. This episode explains how to keep water out and identify when water management systems are failing. We discuss the critical distinction between flashing (long-term, maintenance-free barriers) and sealants (requiring periodic replacement). You'll learn why modern homes are less f...

Send us Fan Mail Exterior doors are more than just entry points—they're critical components for security, energy efficiency, and water management. This episode covers hinged doors, sliding (patio) doors, and bulkhead doors. For hinged doors, we explore: - Door types, styles, and materials (wood, metal, fiberglass, vinyl, composite) - Door and frame parts (rails, stiles, mullions, jambs, sill,...

Send us Fan Mail Windows provide light, ventilation, and architectural character. This episode covers window types, construction, installation, safety requirements, and energy efficiency considerations. Window types explored include: - Fixed windows (transoms, fanlights, eyebrows, sidelights, Palladian) - Operable windows (double-hung, single-hung, sliding, casement, hopper, awning) - Bay and bow...

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the Fireplaces and Chimneys podcast series! In this introductory episode, we establish the foundation for understanding fireplace and chimney inspections. We'll clarify what a true fireplace is versus decorative gas appliances, explore the two main types of fireplaces (masonry and factory-built), and discuss solid-fuel-burning appliances including wood stoves and f...

Send us Fan Mail Dive deep into the anatomy of masonry fireplaces in this comprehensive episode covering every critical component from the ground up. Starting with footings that support these massive structures, we'll examine hearths, hearth extensions, and the importance of proper combustible material separation. Discover the requirements for firebox walls, including thickness specifications...

Send us Fan Mail Why do most fireplaces actually drain heat from your home instead of warming it? This episode tackles the efficiency paradox of traditional fireplaces and explores solutions to make them more effective heating sources. We'll examine how up to 85% of fireplace heat can be lost up the chimney and why homeowners are essentially paying to heat outdoor air. Learn about combustion...

Send us Fan Mail Masonry chimneys are among the most difficult and important components to inspect in a home, and this comprehensive episode explains why. We'll explore proper chimney construction from the footing up, including acceptable materials like solid masonry, grout-filled hollow masonry, stone, and concrete. Learn about clay flue liners and modern relining systems using metal or cast...

Send us Fan Mail Factory-built fireplaces have dominated new construction since the 1970s, but they operate under completely different rules than masonry fireplaces. This episode covers prefabricated metal fireplace systems including the cabinet, metal chimney, and refractory panels that must work together as a tested system. Learn why you cannot mix components from different manufacturers and why...

Send us Fan Mail This episode addresses critical chimney issues that apply to all chimney types, starting with the dangerous byproduct of wood burning: creosote. Learn to identify the different forms of creosote from fluffy flakes to hardened tar-like substances, understand what causes excessive buildup, and why it's a leading cause of chimney fires. We'll explore the importance of rain...

Send us Fan Mail Explore the world of solid-fuel-burning appliances that retrofit into existing fireplaces or stand alone as heating sources. This episode begins with fireplace inserts—appliances installed into masonry or factory-built fireboxes that burn wood, pellets, or gas. Learn about installation requirements, the importance of manufacturer's instructions, and inspection limitations due...

Send us Fan Mail In our final episode, we tackle a practical solution for situations where standard clearances to combustible materials cannot be achieved. Discover approved clearance reduction systems that use noncombustible materials like steel or masonry combined with insulation or air spaces to safely reduce required distances by up to half. This episode explains when these systems can be used...

Send us Fan Mail In this foundational episode, we explore the essential guidelines and standards that define kitchen appliance inspection. Learn which appliances are typically included in home inspections, the difference between permanently installed and portable appliances, and why some appliances are excluded from standard practices. We'll cover the two critical characteristics that determi...

Send us Fan Mail Dive deep into the inspection procedures for cooking appliances in this detailed episode. We cover everything from pre-operation safety checks to testing burners and heating elements, proper clearance requirements to combustible materials, and the critical anti-tip device inspection for ranges. Learn the differences between cooktops, ranges, and wall ovens, understand proper insta...

Send us Fan Mail Dive deep into the inspection procedures for cooking appliances in this detailed episode. We cover everything from pre-operation safety checks to testing burners and heating elements, proper clearance requirements to combustible materials, and the critical anti-tip device inspection for ranges. Learn the differences between cooktops, ranges, and wall ovens, understand proper insta...

Send us Fan Mail Learn how to inspect microwave ovens and kitchen exhaust systems safely and effectively. This episode covers both over-the-range and built-in cabinet microwave styles, proper testing procedures to verify heating function, and exhaust fan operation. We discuss proper exhaust duct materials, exterior termination requirements, and why some hoods require makeup air when CFM exceeds 40...

Send us Fan Mail Uncover the essential inspection techniques for food-waste disposers in this practical episode. Learn about horsepower ratings, dedicated circuit requirements, and proper mounting ring installation. We cover pre-operation checks including visible electrical connections, strain relief requirements, and plumbing fitting configurations that prevent waste from backing up into adjacent...

Send us Fan Mail Explore the inspection of trash compactors, an appliance once common in higher-end homes but now less frequently encountered. Learn the difference between built-in and portable models, understand when inspection is required by Standards of Practice, and discover proper testing procedures. We cover pre-operation safety checks, proper bag installation for valid testing, and how to d...

Send us Fan Mail Conclude the series with guidance on inspecting refrigerators and freezers, appliances often considered personal property but crucial to evaluate when included in home sales. Learn why inspectors should never move these appliances, understand the sizing challenges with modern French door models in older homes, and discover proper electrical circuit requirements including why GFCI...

Send us Fan Mail Discover what home inspectors need to examine beyond the house itself. This foundational episode covers the essential inspection scope for site conditions including driveways, drainage systems, retaining walls, and vegetation. Learn critical terminology every inspector must know: barriers, culverts, deadmen, drainage systems, grading, landscape blocks, retaining walls, swales, and...

Send us Fan Mail Explore the world of retaining walls - structures that hold earth and prevent erosion while adding usable space to sloping lots. Learn about common materials including wood, masonry, poured concrete, precast blocks, and natural stone. Discover essential construction techniques, drainage requirements, and structural components like tiebacks and deadmen. We'll cover typical def...