What does the home inspector look for in the structure (framing)?
Your At Home Inspections, Inc. professional checks for evidence of wood boring insect (e.g., termite) infestation, damage (new or old), and treatment. Molds, mildews, and other fungi feed on cellulose and can damage the structural framing of the house, in addition to being biohazards and health risks. Evidence of mold/mildew infestation is noted on the inspection report. Steel and wood posts/beams are checked for deflection, deformation, bearing and connections (bolts, weld joints, etc.). Joists and truss joists are checked for structural damage (cuts/splits/cracks/rot), and for the type/condition of connectors/fasteners (e.g., strap hangers). Roof rafters/trusses are checked for the same defects as the joists and beams. The roof sheathing is checked for mold/mildew/rot damage and water leakage. On townhouses more than 11 years old, the roof sheathing may be failed fire-retardant-treated plywood, and on single family homes 35 years and older, some non-treated plywood roof sheathing wil
