Solid Gas Lines vs. Flex Gas Lines
Solid and flex gas lines are both found in various locations throughout your home running to your gas appliances. But how do you know what calls for one over the other.
Flex gas lines purpose:
The purpose of flex gas lines is to to ensure that a gas line doesn’t erupt or break in the event of a tremor or earthquake. The flex line allows for movement without damage to the line or the appliance and also avoids the health risks and concerns that accompany a gas leak.
Where should flex gas lines be:
Well, there are a few different things to factor in like the type of appliance and the location of said appliance. Gas lines that run throughout the home and are not directly connected to appliances are permitted to be solid, but once they come in contact with the said appliance(s) there should be a thermal coupling or connection that allows the pipe to be connected to a flex gas line that then connects to the said appliance(s).
Exceptions to the rule/ specifics:
Now there are some exceptions. For example, when a flex gas line is running to your furnace/ heating unit the flex gas line is not permitted to run into or through the actual metal housing of said furnace. The code stipulates a solid gas line to run within 2 & a half inches of metal housing and the flex line should then be connected to that solid line. This code keeps the actual connection point of the two pipes from running into the metal housing of the furnace away from an environment that’s heating & then cooling rapidly, which research has shown to have negative implications on the integrity of the connection itself. In other words, the connection between the solid line and flex line has the potential to be compromised/eroded if left inside the metal housing of the furnace.
All electric appliances/ homes:
If you happen to live on a property that’s all-electric (no gas appliances) then this information doesn’t apply. An easy way to decipher this if you don’t know is to look at your appliance at the source of ignition. Electrical-only powered appliances will usually use heated coils as a source of ignition whereas gas appliances will use fire or a flame.
Hopefully, you found this helpful! If there are any questions don’t lease feel free to reach out to Eagle Eye Home Inspections and one of our trained professionals would be happy to assist you in any way possible.
Thank you for your time & your business!
Double Pane Windows versus Single Pane Windows
Most people have heard the terms but few understand the differences between double pane and single pane windows. Below I will illustrate and explain the differences as well as the benefits and or concerns of having either type of window.
Single Pane Window
A single pane window is made up of one sheet of glass. Still used today but more commonly seen on older builds/ construction, as it was more popularly used in the past. But nevertheless a more than adequate option for your home.
Pros: Less expensive than their double pane counterpart.
Cons: Less energy efficient/ has trouble keeping temperatures in the home up or down in comparison to the temperature outside.
For example, if it’s hot outside and you turn on the air conditioning to cool your home down the cool air is going to escape more quickly if your home has single pane windows, subsequently causing you to run your air conditioning longer to cool your home thus raising your electricity bill. The same principle goes for noise. They keep less noise out versus double pane.
Double Pane Window
A double pane window is made up of two sheets of glass that are vacuum sealed together. They are the most common style of windows you’ll see on newer builds/ construction. Usually with white vinyl or plastic framing.
Pros: Energy efficient, helps keep the hot or cold energy/ air in and the temperatures outside out.
Noise reduction, a big plus is it does a better job at keep sound waves from traveling into your home from outside. Very vital if living next to main roads and highway/ freeways.
Cons: Price, they do more so that cost more, pretty cut and dry.
Conclusion
They both do the same thing one just does it better because one is only half of the other. When it boils down to it, do you want a Honda or do you want a Rolls Royce? They both do the same job and well but it all depends on preference and situation.
PS- Windows with vinyl or plastic framing require less maintenance and last a lot longer than metal window frames because of metals tendency to rust and corroded due to moisture in the air/ being exposed to weather.
Most common types of Roofing (And things you need to know)
1. Composition
This is one of the most common types of roofing material and you’ll find at most residences. There’s two different types/ styles of composition roofs. Both are viable but it’s important to know the differences between them as well as the pros and cons.
Composition Shingle
Pros: Life span- It can last 15-20 years depending on weather conditions.
Accessibility- This being the most common type of roofing material it’s very easy to come by if need be for any reason.
Cons: Price- It’s going to be more expensive compared to “Rolled Composition” or “Tar & Gravel” just based on it taking more labor & time to install and lasts longer.
Rolled Composition
Pros: Price- Cheaper than most.
Installation- Easy to install.
Cons: Lifespan- Rolled composition tends to last somewhere around 10yrs but can start showing major wear and may need to be repaired or replaced within 5 just depending on weather conditions.
2. Metal
Not seen as frequently by metal roofing is another very good option and has a longer lifespan compared to most depending on what the actual metal is you have on your residence.
Pros: Lifespan- These roofs will pretty much last your lifetime on most instances which means 50+ years and why they are referred to as a “Lifetime Roof”
Cons: Price: These roofs are pricey due to material, time & labor it takes to install, as well as how long it lasts.
Oxidation/ Color Change: These roofs depending on the metal will oxidize and change color. This happens because it’s exposed to weather conditions and moisture in the air and or rain.
3. Tile
Tile is another very common type of roofing and comes in a variety of different styles, shapes, and sizes. Refer to the image below
Pros: Lifespan- This is another and most common type of “Lifetime Roof”. Which again means it should last you 50 years or more.
Low Maintenance- Since each tile is placed individually almost like a puzzle piece it’s makes it easy to replace just a few tiles when a problem may occur, versus to having to replace the whole roof.
Cons: Price- One of the more expensive roofing materials based again on material and time for installation/ labor costs.
Accessibility- If/ when installed I would recommend always buying more of the same tiles to keep in storage. Depending on type of tiles you purchase it can be somewhat difficult to find the exact same ones if replacing is needed for any reason in the future.
Conclusion
Every roofing material listed here are very viable and good options for your home. The only thing to consider is the pros & cons and most of time as in must situations it falls down to the price. Longevity + Low Maintenance is going to cost you the most upfront but you’ll save more in the long run. Where as a Shorter lifespan + High Maintenance is going to cost you less upfront but will cost you more in the future which can vary depending on weather conditions/ where you live.
I hope you’ve found these tidbit’s of information helpful as Eagle Eye Home Inspections aims to please the masses as well as make this type of information more accessible to all, Thank you!
What to Expect from Your Home Inspection
What are home inspectors looking for?
Well, the short answer is: Any damage whatsoever, if the eyes can see it then it should be noted and reported on. Now the long answer is a bit different. As a home inspector the majority of our time go towards the seven “big ticket” items or the items that can cost you the most money if needed to be fixed or replaced. Which are the: Roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC system(s), water heater(s), and appliances. Everything else is more or less cosmetic. Also it is important to note that a home inspection is a purely visual inspection. So, it is recommended that house be vacant for the most accurate results. Otherwise it is easy for things to go unreported as personal property can greatly limit the view and surface area of the home inspection.
How long does it take?
A home inspection can take anywhere from one hour to several hours depending on the size and condition of the home. For homes with larger square footage it will likely take longer to complete the inspection. Another varying factor depends on how many home inspectors are at the site. It’s most commonly completed by one or two inspectors per inspection. On average it is safe to assume your home inspection will be two hours long for an average three bedroom 2,000 square foot home. Factors such as detached guest houses and a pool or spa would likely add time to the home inspection. Another thing that you need to account for is the condition of the home as the more there is wrong/ notable the longer the inspection will take since a home inspector needs to notate all damage and or deficiencies.
What are some common defects?
The condition of every home is different so there is no one size fits all answer to this question. However there are a list of a few of the more common issues home inspectors in CA can come across; roof damage, fire damage, water damage, exterior problems, and faulty wiring. These are all issues that home inspectors are trained and qualified to detect and report for their customers.
Why is a home inspection important for a buyer?
A home is one of the most expensive and valuable assets a person will buy in their lifetime. To ensure your investment is quality, hiring a home inspector is a critical aspect. This allows buyers to have a professional tell them about the interior and exterior problems of the home before purchasing. It also gives the buyers information on potentially life threatening issues with the home, and maintenance of the home. This can also be used as a contingency/ negotiation in your contract with the seller. Included in your contingency can be the option to back out of your contract if the home provides significant defects, free of penalty.
How to Make Sure Your Gas Water Heater is up to Code in California!
These 7 things can save your life.
Ensuring your water heater is up to code is one of the many important things to know as a homeowner or homebuyer. Especially in California where you have to take seismic activity (earthquakes) into account. So by ensuring your water heater is up to code you could ensure safety inside the home for you and your loved ones. How to ensure water heater is up to code? We are here to help inform you and give you the best insight from certified home inspectors of over 25 years.
1. Seismic Straps
Ensure your water heater has two seismic straps. One located on the top third and one on the bottom third of the water heater. This helps and protects your water heater from any side to side & forward movement.
2. Bracing
You want to ensure you brace the rear of the water heater in any instances that there is a gap between the water heater and the back wall.
3. Flex Gas-line
This is the line that carries gas to your water heater, it should be accordion style and yellow coded. This protects your home from any seismic activity (earthquakes) where the gas line could be compromised/break.
4. Plumbing Pipe for Pressure Relief Valve
Supposed to run within 6 inches of the bottom of the water heater. If your water heater were ever to build up pressure it would expel scolding hot water from this valve.
5. Vent Flue
Any gas water heaters require a vent fleu that runs through the roof. This serves as an exhaust system for your water heater. This needs to be 18 inches off of the floor if it is located in your garage.
6. 18 Inches off the Ground
Your water needs to be at least 18 inches off the ground if it is to be stored in your garage area. Gas is heavier than oxygen so for this reason ignitable gasses tend to come together and sit at/ near the floor. Ensuring your water heater is elevated protects you against this usual occurrence.
7. Water Heater Closets
If your water heater has its own designated closet it requires ventilation. Generally one vent towards the top and one vent towards the bottom.
Seven Big Ticket Items to Look for When Buying a Home.
It all begins with an idea.
These 7 big ticket items are essential to inspect thoroughly before buying your dream home. Home inspectors are trained professionals who are certified to carefully inspect these items and ensure acceptable operation. Be sure to ask about these things in depth during your next home inspection!
Roof
Foundation
Plumbing
Electrical
Heating and AC unit
Water Heater
Appliances
This can save you money in the long run!