Structure Talk

In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, Ruben Saltzman interviews Dennis Fiorilli, the Director of Product Excellence at Sherwin Williams, about a product called Loxon Concrete Masonry Coating. The conversation revolves around the challenges of painting stucco homes and the traditional belief that stucco should not be painted. Dennis explains that Loxon is a breathable coating designed specifically for stucco and other concrete surfaces. It allows water vapor to escape while preventing water penetration. The discussion also touches on the preparation required before applying the coating, the expected lifespan of the product, and other solutions for paint problems on different types of surfaces.

Takeaways

Loxon Concrete Masonry Coating is a breathable coating designed for stucco and other concrete surfaces.
The coating allows water vapor to escape while preventing water penetration.
Proper preparation, including cleaning and ensuring the substrate is clean, dull, and dry, is essential before applying the coating.
Loxon Coatings are readily available at Sherwin Williams stores throughout the country.
Other solutions, such as oil-based primers for wood siding, can help address paint problems on different surfaces.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout
01:04 The Challenges of Painting Stucco Homes
05:39 Introducing Loxon Concrete Masonry Coating
08:09 Preparation for Applying Loxon Coating
15:38 The Lifespan of Loxon Coating
18:21 Other Solutions for Paint Problems
25:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode, Reuben and Tessa share stories about storm damage and water problems in their homes. Reuben talks about door knockers who claimed hail damage on his roof, but he discovered that the damage was not significant enough to warrant an insurance claim. Tessa shares her experience with a leaking on-demand water heater and subsequent water damage in her rental property. Reuben also discusses a water leak in his rental property's basement caused by a clogged condensate pan. Both hosts highlight the challenges and frustrations of dealing with home maintenance issues.

Takeaways

Be cautious of door knockers claiming storm damage and offering free inspections, as their assessments may not be accurate.
Not all granule loss on shingles indicates hail damage, and it does not necessarily shorten the life of the roof.
Water problems can occur in rental properties, and it is important to promptly address leaks to prevent further damage.
Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for identifying and resolving issues before they escalate.
Owning a home or rental property requires being prepared for unexpected maintenance and repair issues.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout
03:01 Beware of Door Knockers Claiming Hail Damage
12:04 Dealing with a Leaking On-Demand Water Heater
17:15 Water Problems in Rental and Owned Properties
21:07 The Importance of Promptly Addressing Leaks
23:31 The Joys and Frustrations of Homeownership

In this episode, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry interview Michael from Standard Water about helical piers. They discuss the process of stabilizing homes using helical piers, the different applications for helical piers, and the cost associated with the installation. They also touch on the benefits of helical piers for decks and the limitations of helical piers for foundation walls with significant bowing or horizontal cracks. In this conversation, Stephen from Standard Water explains different methods for stabilizing foundation walls. He discusses using fortress carbon fiber straps, power braces, and earth plates. He also mentions push piers as a solution for foundation settlement. The cost of these systems ranges from $1,000 to $1,450. Stephen emphasizes the importance of addressing foundation issues early and provides tips for homeowners to monitor cracks and movement. He also mentions the use of benchmarks and laser measurements for long-term monitoring.

Takeaways

Helical piers are a popular method for stabilizing homes and structures.
Helical piers are like giant corkscrews that are driven into the ground using hydraulic pressure.
The length of the helical piers depends on the depth required to reach a load-bearing strata.
Helical piers can be used to stabilize various structures, including front porches, garages, and decks.
The cost of helical piers varies depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Helical piers are not suitable for foundation walls with significant bowing or horizontal cracks. Fortress carbon fiber straps are recommended for stage one or stage two foundation issues, as long as lateral movement is under two inches.
Power braces and earth plates are alternative options for stabilizing foundation walls when movement exceeds two inches.
Push piers lift settled foundations and can be a non-invasive solution.
The cost of stabilization systems ranges from $1,000 to $1,450.
Homeowners should monitor cracks and movement in their foundation walls and seek professional help if they worsen.
Benchmarks and laser measurements can be used for long-term monitoring of foundation stability.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:39 What is a Helical Pier?
06:35 Applications of Helical Piers
12:23 Cost of Helical Piers
13:18 Helical Piers for Decks
17:12 Limitations of Helical Piers for Foundation Walls
18:23 Methods for Stabilizing Foundation Walls
20:48 Fortress Carbon Fiber Straps: A Solution for Stage One and Stage Two
21:36 Power Braces and Earth Plates: Alternative Options for Foundation Stabilization
23:50 Cost of Foundation Stabilization Systems
28:02 Monitoring Foundation Cracks and Movement
29:12 Long-Term Monitoring with Benchmarks and Laser Measurements

In this episode, Reuben and Tessa are joined by Steve Grohn, owner of Standard Water, who shares his expertise on basement waterproofing and other related services and they discuss basement water issues and the importance of proper drainage. They also address common misconceptions and scams in the industry, emphasizing the importance of providing accurate solutions to homeowners. Steve highlights the comprehensive approach his company takes, considering factors such as gutters, downspouts, and grading before recommending drain tile installation. He also discusses the measures his company takes to minimize dust and ensure a clean work environment. In this conversation, Steve Grohn discusses various aspects of basement waterproofing and foundation repair. He explains the process of installing drain tile systems, the challenges of removing concrete during basement waterproofing, and the importance of proper waterproofing to prevent water intrusion. Steve also touches on the topic of radon mitigation and the benefits of using drain tile systems in conjunction with radon mitigation systems. Additionally, he briefly mentions the use of helical piers and push piers for foundation repair.

Takeaways

Proper drainage is crucial for preventing basement water issues.
It is important to address the root cause of water intrusion rather than just installing drain tile as a quick fix.
Some companies use fear tactics and misinformation to sell unnecessary services.
Standard Water takes a comprehensive approach, considering factors such as gutters, downspouts, and grading before recommending drain tile installation.
Dust control measures, such as negative air pressure and HEPA filters, are essential during basement waterproofing projects. Basement waterproofing involves the installation of drain tile systems to prevent water intrusion.
Removing concrete during basement waterproofing can be a labor-intensive process.
Proper waterproofing is essential to prevent water damage and mold growth in basements.
Drain tile systems can be used in conjunction with radon mitigation systems to remove radon gas from basements.
Helical piers and push piers are used for foundation repair to stabilize and lift sinking or settling foundations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Water Heater Failure
01:55 Sponsor Shoutout and Minnesota's Best Award
03:34 Guest Introduction and Overview of Steve's Companies
05:36 Differentiating Standard Water from Competitors
11:44 Scams and Misinformation in the Waterproofing Industry
18:25 Considering the Big Picture and Multiple Solutions
22:31 Dust Control Measures During Basement Waterproofing
25:00 Basement Waterproofing and Drain Tile Systems
29:16 The Challenges of Concrete Removal in Basement Waterproofing
38:47 The Importance of Proper Waterproofing
45:14 Combining Drain Tile Systems with Radon Mitigation

In this episode, Skip Walker joins Reuben and Tessa to discuss the current state of smoke alarms and the standards that govern their manufacturing. They delve into the UL 217 standard and the challenges of updating it. They also explore the role of manufacturers in the standards process and the impact on consumer safety. The conversation highlights the importance of photoelectric smoke alarms and the need for widespread adoption. They also touch on the changes in the market, with brands like Kidda focusing on photoelectric alarms. Overall, the episode emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and education on smoke alarm safety. The conversation revolves around smoke alarms and the debate between ionization and photoelectric technology. Skip Walker, an expert in the field, discusses the flaws of ionization alarms and the benefits of photoelectric alarms. He mentions the ongoing efforts to update the UL standards for smoke alarms and the resistance from manufacturers. Lawsuits against companies like KIDDA and First Alert are putting pressure on them to improve their products. The conversation concludes discussion of the importance of using photoelectric smoke alarms and the need for stricter regulations.

Takeaways

The UL 217 standard governs the manufacturing of smoke alarms in the United States.
The standards process involves a committee with representatives from manufacturers, academia, and the public.
Manufacturers can block changes to the standard, which has hindered progress in improving smoke alarm technology.
The current standard allows for both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms, but there is a push for greater adoption of photoelectric alarms.
Changes to the standard can be delayed, leading to a delay in the implementation of improved smoke alarm technology.
Advocacy and education are crucial in promoting the use of photoelectric smoke alarms and improving consumer safety. Ionization smoke alarms have flaws and are prone to nuisance tripping.
Photoelectric smoke alarms are more effective in detecting slow-moving, large particles in real fires.
There is ongoing debate and resistance from manufacturers in updating the UL standards for smoke alarms.
Lawsuits against companies like KIDDA and First Alert are pressuring them to improve their products.
Using photoelectric smoke alarms is crucial for better fire safety.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Social Media Mishap
01:21 Introducing Skip Walker and His New Endeavor
03:17 Teaching Residential Building Codes
04:03 Creating the Curriculum for the Class
06:32 Reuben's Support and Excitement for Skip's Teaching
09:59 Revisiting the Topic of Smoke Alarms
14:38 The Challenges of Updating Smoke Alarm Standards
19:00 The Role of Manufacturers in the Standards Process
25:30 The Importance of Photoelectric Smoke Alarms
29:23 Advocacy and Education for Smoke Alarm Safety
29:26 The Flaws of Ionization Smoke Alarms
32:19 The Benefits of Photoelectric Smoke Alarms
35:26 Resistance from Manufacturers in Updating UL Standards
37:00 Lawsuits Driving Improvement in Smoke Alarm Technology
48:41 The Importance of Using Photoelectric Smoke Alarms

In this episode, Reuben and Tessa are joined by Tim Molgren from Woodlands Insurance Group focuses on the insurance problems in Minnesota and the changes happening in the industry. The main topics discussed include the increase in insurance premiums due to severe weather events and rising construction costs, the introduction of four-point inspections in Minnesota, the difference between replacement value and actual cash value in insurance coverage, the challenges insurance companies face in changing their rates, and the trends in insurance coverage in other states with high storm activity. The conversation discusses homeowners' challenges in getting insurance coverage for their roofs, especially in areas prone to hail damage. The hosts express frustration with the current system, where some roofers push for unnecessary roof replacements to profit from insurance claims. They highlight the waste and cost associated with replacing roofs with a significant lifespan. The conversation also touches on the future of insurance coverage and the potential impact on homebuyers, particularly those purchasing older homes with outdated systems. The hosts emphasize the importance of having conversations with insurance agents to stay informed about policy changes and to ensure adequate coverage.

Takeaways

Insurance premiums in Minnesota have significantly increased due to severe weather events and rising construction costs.
Four-point inspections are becoming more common in Minnesota as insurance companies tighten their requirements for coverage.
Replacement value coverage in insurance policies allows for the full cost of rebuilding a home, while actual cash value coverage only provides the value of the home at the time of the claim.
Insurance companies face challenges in changing their rates due to regulatory processes and red tape.
Other states with high storm activity, such as Florida, have experienced similar insurance challenges, including limited coverage options and higher premiums.
Insurance carriers may implement roof schedules, higher deductibles, and other measures to mitigate their losses and control premiums in the future. Some roofers push for unnecessary roof replacements to profit from insurance claims, leading to waste and unnecessary costs.
Homeowners should consider the lifespan of their roofs and the extent of damage before filing insurance claims.
Insurance coverage for older homes with outdated systems may become more challenging to obtain.
Homebuyers should budget for potential changes in insurance premiums and down payments when purchasing older homes.
Having conversations with insurance agents is crucial to stay informed about policy changes and ensure adequate coverage.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up
03:00 Insurance Problems in Minnesota
10:33 Minnesota's Weather-Related Claims
14:59 Replacement Value vs. Actual Cash Value
19:20 Challenges in Changing Insurance Rates
23:48 Insurance Trends in States with Storm Activity
27:24 Mitigating Losses and Future Premiums
28:56 Unnecessary Roof Replacements
32:15 The Future of Insurance Coverage
34:46 Challenges for Homeowners
38:46 Financing Options for Roofs
45:09 The Impact on Homebuyers
50:38 The Role of City Inspectors
51:33 Importance of Conversations with Insurance Agents

In this episode, Reuben and Tessa discuss various topics, including their summer experiences, illnesses, and home updates. They also discuss the challenges of finding contractors and the shortage of skilled trade workers. Reuben shares some interesting findings from recent home inspections, including corroded galvanized water pipes and structural issues in a garage. They emphasize the importance of getting a home inspection and preparing for potential repairs. They also discuss various home inspection findings, including problems with additions, bonus rooms, bidets, grow operations, reverse osmosis systems, and bay windows. They also touch on the challenges of dealing with water intrusion and rot. Reuben mentions that StructureTech is currently hiring home inspectors. In the next episode, they will be discussing insurance issues.

Takeaways

Summer goes by quickly, so taking full advantage of it is important.
Finding contractors can be challenging, and there is a need for more skilled workers in the trades.
Home inspections are crucial to uncover potential issues and avoid costly repairs.
Corroded galvanized water pipes can cause reduced water flow and may need to be replaced.
Structural issues in garages, such as sagging headers and soffits, require professional evaluation and repair. Home inspections often uncover a variety of issues, such as problems with additions and bonus rooms.
Improperly installed bidets and reverse osmosis systems can lead to water leaks and damage.
Grow operations can cause humidity and mold issues in homes.
Bay windows without overhangs can lead to water intrusion and rot.
StructureTech is currently hiring home inspectors.
The next episode will focus on insurance issues.

Chapters

00:00 Summer Experiences

05:00 The Challenge of Finding Contractors
11:44 The Importance of Home Inspections
19:52 Dealing with Corroded Pipes
21:20 Structural Issues in Garages
25:41 Uncovering Issues with Additions and Bonus Rooms
29:09 The Challenges of Bidets and Reverse Osmosis Systems
35:14 The Impact of Grow Operations on Homes
37:01 Dealing with Water Intrusion and Rot in Bay Windows
47:48 StructureTech is Hiring for Home Inspectors
48:51 Upcoming Episode: Insurance Issues

Attention Home Inspectors: The IEB Summer Mastermind is coming up on August 2nd. Details here: https://events.iebcoaching.com/IEBSummerMastermind2024#/

In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murray discuss dryer ducts and the importance of fire safety. They cover the materials and thickness required for dryer ducts, the size and location of vent terminals, and the maximum allowable length of dryer ducts. They also share personal anecdotes and recommendations for maintaining dryer ducts. The conversation emphasizes proper installation and maintenance to prevent lint accumulation and potential fire hazards. They discuss various aspects of dryer ducts, including size, length, terminals, and materials. They explain that the maximum length for a dryer duct is 35 feet, but manufacturers often allow for longer lengths. They also discuss the importance of proper installation, including using UL-listed foil tape or mastic to secure the ducts. They caution against using indoor dryer vent kits and plastic corrugated vents, as they can pose fire hazards. Reuben recommends having the dryer duct professionally cleaned annually for longer runs.

Check out these links for the blog post related to Dryer Ducts:
 
Inspecting Dryer Ducts:
https://structuretech.com/dryer-duct-safety/

Are flexible foil dryer ducts code-approved?:
https://structuretech.com/foil-dryer-ducts-code-approved/

Video: Burning Dryer Ducts:
https://structuretech.com/burning-dryer-ducts/

Takeaways

Dryer ducts should be made of solid material that resists lint accumulation and contains fires.
The code requires dryer ducts to be four inches in diameter to maintain airflow and prevent clogging.
Vent terminals should not have screens, as they can trap lint and reduce efficiency.
Dryer ducts should be installed in accessible locations to facilitate cleaning and maintenance.
The maximum allowable length of dryer ducts is typically 35 feet, but manufacturers' instructions should also be followed. The maximum length for a dryer duct is 35 feet, but manufacturers often allow for longer lengths.
Proper installation of dryer ducts is important to prevent fire hazards and maintain efficiency.
UL-listed foil tape or mastic should be used to secure dryer ducts.
Indoor dryer vent kits and plastic corrugated vents are not recommended due to fire hazards.
Dryer ducts should be professionally cleaned annually for longer runs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Weather Update
03:05 Discussion on Mosquitoes and Product Recommendation
08:21 Introduction to Dryer Ducts and Transition Ducts
12:17 Requirements for Dryer Ducts
17:35 Vent Terminal Requirements
23:28 Maximum Allowable Length of Dryer Ducts
30:18 Avoiding Fire Hazards: Indoor Dryer Vent Kits and Plastic Corrugated Vents
34:06 Maintaining Efficiency: Professional Cleaning of Dryer Ducts
45:46 Conclusion

Attention Home Inspectors: The IEB Summer Mastermind is coming up on August 2nd. Details here: https://events.iebcoaching.com/IEBSummerMastermind2024#/

In this episode, Reuben and Tessa discuss repairing ungrounded three-prong outlets. They explain the importance of testing three-prong outlets and the dangers of ungrounded outlets. They discuss the different options for updating two-prong outlets and ungrounded three-prong outlets in older homes. They cover the importance of grounding, the use of metal conduits, and the limitations of using two-prong outlets or adapters. Overall, they provide valuable insights for home inspectors and homeowners dealing with outdated electrical systems.

Check out this link for the blog post related to three-prong outlets:
https://structuretech.com/options-for-repairing-ungrounded-three-prong-outlets/

Takeaways

Testing three-prong outlets is important to ensure they are properly grounded.
Ungrounded three-prong outlets can be dangerous and should be repaired.
There are different ways to fix ungrounded outlets, such as grounding the receptacle to a metal box or using GFCI protection.
Home inspectors should check a representative number of outlets to identify ungrounded outlets.
It is important to understand the basics of electrical grounding and the purpose of the third prong on a plug. Updating two-prong outlets or ungrounded three-prong outlets in older homes can be challenging.
Metal conduit provides a continuous path for grounding and is an ideal solution.
GFCI protection is an alternative option that does not require grounding.
AFCI protection is required for certain areas and should be considered when doing electrical work.
Bootleg grounds, where the neutral and ground are connected, can fool basic testers.
Specialized testers can detect bootleg grounds and provide more accurate results.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Holiday Recap
03:09 Partnership with IEB
08:12 The Importance of Testing Three-Prong Outlets
21:11 Common Questions and Misconceptions About Grounding Outlets

In today’s episode, Reuben, Tessa, and Pat discuss heat pumps and their use in heating and cooling homes. They discuss the different types of heat pumps, including air-to-air and air-to-water systems, and the advantages of using heat pumps, such as energy efficiency and reduced fossil fuel emissions. Overall, they highlight the increasing popularity of heat pumps and the potential for them to become the primary heating and cooling solution. Ground source heat pumps, also known as geothermal systems, are another option that provides efficient heating and cooling, but they come with a higher upfront cost. The future of HVAC lies in heat pumps and their ability to efficiently move heat from one place to another.

Takeaways

A heat pump is an air conditioner that can run in reverse, extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it indoors.
Heat pumps can be more energy efficient and environmentally friendly compared to traditional heating systems.
In cold climates, the capacity and efficiency of heat pumps may decrease, making backup systems or hybrid systems necessary.
Efficient homes are better suited for heat pumps, as they can maximize their effectiveness and reduce energy costs.
The HVAC industry is still catching up with the technology and delivery of heat pumps, which can affect their availability and affordability. Heat pumps are a viable option for heating homes in cold climates
The HVAC industry is lagging in terms of knowledge and installation expertise
Ground source heat pumps provide efficient heating and cooling but come with a higher upfront cost
Central air source heat pump systems offer better filtration, ventilation, and dehumidification
The future of HVAC lies in heat pumps and their ability to efficiently move heat

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Teaser

02:05 Understanding Heat Pumps
06:21 Variable Capacity and Efficiency of Heat Pumps
12:36 Hybrid Systems and Backup Solutions
26:20 Challenges and Adoption of Heat Pumps
32:30 Using Internal Gains to Supplement Heat Pump Performance
34:21 Advancements in Heat Pump Technology
35:17 Determining the Suitability of Homes for Heat Pumps
37:59 The Potential of Ground Source Heat Pumps
39:47 Transitioning Older Homes to Heat Pumps
41:00 The Age of Homes and Heat Pump Compatibility
44:22 Exploring the History of Heat Pump Technology
45:20 The Advantages of Central Air Source Heat Pump Systems
47:35 The Importance of Proper Dehumidification in Air Conditioning
49:00 The Variable Capacity Advantage of Heat Pumps
50:01 Considerations for Elevating Outdoor Heat Pump Units
53:26 The Potential for Heat Pump Systems to Heat Water
56:40 Condensation and Defrosting in Heat Pump Systems
58:30 The Future of HVAC: Heat Pumps and Efficient Heat Transfer