Structural System

CLIENT ADVISORY

descriptiVE INFORMATION

Foundation Type:                             · Perimeter wall with basement slab.  For further information on this type of foundation, please refer to page 11 in your copy of The Homeowner’s Handbook.

Foundation Material:                 · Poured in place concrete 

Exterior Wall System:                · Conventionally framed wood stud.  Various types of bearing walls are described in your copy of The Homeowner’s Handbook, on page 17.

Interior Bearing Walls:               · Conventionally framed wood partitions.  Various types of bearing walls are described in your copy of The Homeowner’s Handbook, on page 17.

Floor System:                            · Plywood over wood joists.  Additional information on various floor systems, including this particular one, can be found in your copy of The Homeowner’s Handbook, beginning on page 15.

Roof Structure:                          · Factory built trusses.  Truss roof structures are more fully described on page 18 in your copy of The Homeowner’s Handbook.

Roof Sheathing:                        · Plywood nailed across the top chords of the roof trusses 

Basement Access:                     · By way of an interior stairway 

observations & recommendations

Building Foundation

The foundation and other visible elements of the underbuilding support structure were generally in satisfactory condition for the age of the dwelling.  However, we suggest attention to the items noted below.

Concrete Foundation

A condition known as “efflorescence” was evident on portions of the foundation walls.  This whitish, fuzzy material is a deposit left when moisture in the foundation evaporates on the inside surface, depositing crystals.  This indicates an occasional surplus of moisture on the outside of the foundation.  Steps could be taken to improve the exterior drainage where appropriate, but no other action is indicated at this time.

Areas of exposed aggregate, which are known as “rock pockets”, were visible.  Rock pockets generally have no structural significance and are typical for houses of this age and construction.  No action was indicated.