module 6- Understanding Residential Construction – Structural Components Flashcards

Question

semi-detached house type?

Answer 1

two attached structures separated by a party wall - it is similar to an attached property that both share a party wall but there is only one vertical party wall separating both units

Answer 2

- several structures connected through one or more party walls/ shared walls - one that is an end unit will only have one party wall - they are very popular with home buyers because they are typically less expensive -These are connected through one or more party walls (or shared walls). An attached structure that is an end unit will have only one party wall. These types of properties are popular with many home buyers because they are typically less expensive to build due to the party wall.

Answer 3

-appear to be be like detached homes but are very similar to semi-detached they both share a wall with another property, the difference is linked are connected below grade level ( i.e the basement) - it is connected by a common wall - connected by garage too

Answer 4

The overall layout of a bungalow is contained within a single floor. The defining characteristic is a lack of stairs within the living area.

Answer 5

A ranch-style bungalow also contains the living area within a single floor but can be differentiated from a bungalow. In most locations, a ranch-style structure can be identified by a long, low-pitch roofline and asymmetrical rectangular, L-shaped, or U-shaped layout. - require a large lot

Answer 6

A bi-level structure often contains a front door foyer that functions as a split entrance and divides the upper and lower areas of the property. In this structure, the lower level is raised above the grade of the property allowing for more window and daylight exposure to that area. - higher basement an bigger windows

Answer 7

The layout of a split-level structure can vary between the number of levels (ranging between three and five), the location of the entrances (front, side, and rear), and the configuration of the rooms for each level. A split-level structure can be one of two designs. A side-split design is where the levels are separated width-wise on the lot. A back-split design is where the levels are separate front to rear.

Answer 8

it is typically identified through approximately 60% of their living area contained on the first floor and with the second floor reduced in usable area due to a slanted roof line that restricts the ceiling height - dormers

Answer 9

: It is a popular style as it features a second floor of equal living space and ceiling height. A two-storey structure could also include some areas that are a single storey only; for example, a rear family room attached to the main two-storey structure. It is more economical to achieve the overall size of a home by choosing a two-storey structure rather than a ranch-style bungalow, as the expense of the foundation is only incurred for approximately 50% of the total area. -main and full upper floor with separate sleeping areas

Answer 10

It is similar to a two-storey structure, but provides an additional half storey on the top floor. Many times, this area can be limited in ceiling height -similar to two story with an additional 1/2 story on top

Answer 11

flexible but contain many stairways

Answer 12

style varies to : split level entrance, two storey and bungalows

Answer 13

two attached units either vertically or horizontally ( separated or common entrance)

Answer 14

three attached units

Answer 15

four dwelling units

Answer 16

problem exists with homeowners who have created illegal parking pads. in toronto, a metal plaque confirming legal status is fixed to the front of the house - ask the seller for a copy of the annual invoice issued by the municipality to confirm legal status - when drafting offer include clause on the legality of parking pads

Answer 17

- transmit structural weight to the footing - acts as a retaining wall to withstand pressure form outside soil -transmit structural weight below the frost line to avoid heaving

Answer 18

Poured concrete driveways are a common type used for residential properties because they are relatively easy to install. -. A benefit of this finish is that the concrete can be poured to form patterns or sections - concrete driveways need to be sealed with a chemical compound, often on an annual basis, to prevent staining and moisture penetration from vehicle leakage. -This treatment also delays or prevents concrete from scaling and flaking. This type of driveway finish is expensive when compared to other types.

Answer 19

Unlike a garage, a carport is not completely enclosed. Carports may be extensions of a properties roof structure that is used for covered parking. The extension to the roof is typically supported by two walls and can have multiple openings for access to the vehicle

Answer 20

Asphalt, paved driveways are a very popular surface used for vehicle parking. A benefit of asphalt as a finish is that it is less expensive to install than concrete. -Asphalt however, requires more maintenance than concrete from cracking but is generally easier to repair.

Answer 21

-A stamped concrete driveway consists of concrete poured on a surface. Before it dries, it is flattened with moulds of a brick pattern or patterned design. -The concrete mixture can be combined with accent colours to provide a more visually appealing appearance. -It is relatively expensive to install

Answer 22

Gravel driveways can be a popular option for homeowners, particularly in more rural areas. Over time, gravel can compact and provide a firm surface for parking. The maintenance for this type of driveway finish is minimal, but potholes may form and require filling to prevent damage to vehicles.

Answer 23

Interlocking paving stones can be made from either cement, concrete, or brick and shaped so that they are able to interlock with other pavers of the same shape, like a jigsaw puzzle.

Answer 24

Exposed aggregate driveways are a relatively popular trend in driveway finishes and can vary in terms of colours and sizes. This style of driveway is formed by using a specialized concrete mix that combines the unique aggregates exposed on the surfac

Answer 25

A parking pad is a type of front yard parking often used in more urban areas that have few available parking options. Although requirements may vary across municipalities, typically parking pads must be constructed from water permeable materials such as interlocking bricks, and not concrete or asphalt. -Parking pads can be an issue for buyers because they may have been built without permission from the municipality, making them illegal,

Answer 26

An alternative to conventional poured concrete is prebuilt, concrete blocks. This foundation material is less commonly used due to its cost and maintenance issues (i.e., deteriorating mortar between concrete blocks), however, this can vary based on municipalities.

Answer 27

Common in older houses, brick and stone foundations are durable and have long lifespans, but have largely been replaced with concrete as it is a less expensive material -This will flake and deteriorate over time, and will require refilling the voids where old mortar has fallen out. This can be both a cosmetic and functional problem. Depending on the severity of the damage, masonry foundation issues can lead to moisture penetration and structural issues

Answer 28

Insulated concrete forms use polystyrene building components that function as a permanent interlocking form in which the concrete is poured. This building material is easy to use, contributes to insulation, enhanced damp-proofing, and reduced fire hazard risk.

Answer 29

Synthetic material can be attached to the exterior surface of the foundation for protection against moisture.

Answer 30

This occurs when the foundation is not able to provide sufficient lateral support against the soil surrounding it, pushing the walls inward. T

Answer 31

Cracks in the foundation could lead to water penetration or infestation of insects and vermin. These cracks are sometimes caused by concrete shrinkage. Concrete will shrink as it cures and dries. Changes in temperature, such as warm to cool to intense heat, may interrupt this curing process which can cause cracks in the cement, leading to structural problems over time.

Answer 32

The penetration of moisture through the foundation is a problem that can lead to serious foundation damage. If the damp-proofing fails, then efflorescence (i.e., a coating of salt on the surface of a porous material) may occur on the inside walls. Efflorescence is a chemical reaction between water and concrete, and nearly always indicates moisture penetratio

Answer 33

-Posts or columns built out of plumb or have been pushed out of plumb, that is they are no longer in a vertical position, lose their strength and are unable to maintain their structural function. -The load that a post or column is supporting is no longer balanced if that post of column becomes out of plumb

Answer 34

An inadequate footing refers to a footing that is unable to properly support the foundation and prevent settling. Concrete footings are placed under all load-bearing parts of the foundation, such as foundation walls, columns, posts and piers. A post sinking is often the result of either a non-existent or inadequately sized footing

Answer 35

An undersized column, one that is too small, or one that may have suffered mechanical damage, may collapse and not adequately support its load.

Answer 36

A post that is not properly secured to a beam located above it may cause the structure to shift during wind uplift forces (i.e., any upward pressure applied to a structure that has the potential to raise it relative to its surroundings).

Answer 37

Masonry posts may deteriorate due to moisture or poor mortar. Rising dampness is a common problem with brick columns and can be identified by deteriorated mortar and efflorescence (i.e., a white salt deposit) located on the bottom of the post.

Answer 38

Rust is a primary concern for posts or columns constructed with steel. Rust is often found in a chronically flooding basement, and it will quickly reduce the load-carrying capacity of a steel post.

Answer 39

Fire will damage wood and steel posts. A steel beam will fail much earlier due to the heat than a solid wood post, but it will not burn.

Answer 40

-One of the most common ways to determine possible foundation damage is inspecting the structure’s interior and exterior walls. A shifting foundation can put stress on the wall systems and lead to cracking, particularly evident in drywall and plaste -Cracking is most obvious around doors, windows, and in the corners. Exterior finishes of the structure, such as brick masonry and stucco, may also contain cracks. This is an indication to consider a professional inspection of the foundatio

Answer 41

-One of the most common ways to determine possible foundation damage is inspecting the structure’s interior and exterior walls. A shifting foundation can put stress on the wall systems and lead to cracking, particularly evident in drywall and plaste -Cracking is most obvious around doors, windows, and in the corners. Exterior finishes of the structure, such as brick masonry and stucco, may also contain cracks. This is an indication to consider a professional inspection of the foundation

Answer 42

Misalignment of both windows and doors are clear signs of potential foundation problems. These problems can be identified initially in subtle ways, such as doors that may stick, or windows that are more difficult to open and close. As the problem progresses, it could lead to doors not aligned enough to completely close

Answer 43

Soil adjacent to the structure’s foundation can cause shifting and cracking in the foundation depending on its grading (i.e., the sloping of the ground away from the structure). How water drains around a structure can be an indicator of the need for a foundation inspection. -During rainy weather, if the water appears to run towards, rather than away from the structure, this could lead to excess moisture in the soil near the foundation and to foundation problems. This is called negative grade and is often identified by home inspectors.

Answer 44

-For properties with a chimney, a quick visual inspection of the chimney and its pillars, joints, and mouldings can help identify potential foundation issues. If a chimney begins to separate from the structure, it could be a sign that the foundation of the property may have begun to shift, in a similar way to the misalignment of windows and doors. -One way to identify chimney sag is to stand across the street from the property and do a visual plumb, comparing the vertical angle of the chimney to the roof line or some other component of the house.

Answer 45

Platform framing : Platform framing includes a wood floor joist and subfloor system that’s installed on the top of the foundation. After this, the studs are erected over this system. The platforms or floors are constructed for each structure level, then the wall framing is placed on each platform. An example of this could include a two-storey house in which a second-floor platform would be assembled on the top of the studs, and then a second set of studs would be added over the top of that one.

Answer 46

Balloon framing is a construction technique that uses conventional wood studs and floor joists. The wall studs are built before the floor system and those studs run from the foundation of the structure to the roof line. The walls are constructed first, then the floor systems are hung from those walls, with long wood studs running from the bottom of the structure to the top.

Answer 47

Balloon framing is a construction technique that uses conventional wood studs and floor joists. -Balloon framing is rarely used as a construction technique, primarily because there is no fire break between floors. Fire from the first floor can travel up the wooden studs without being blocked by the floor of the second storey.

Answer 48

The improper placement of nails or using an inadequate number of nails can lead to complications with a residential framing system (i.e., the framing system not being securely attached together) as construction progresses. This can result in openings in walls for windows and doors that may not be correctly framed, such as wall sections over the opening sagging if the openings are not bridged with the appropriate lintels (i.e., horizontal support across the top of a door or window opening). Other indicators could be doors and windows that are out of alignment and therefore do not open or close properly

Answer 49

A significant concern for residential framing systems is condensation damage (e.g., rot) to the studs in the exterior walls. This occurs when insulation is being replaced in older houses. If no plastic vapour barrier is installed over the warm side of the insulation, then condensation can form, causing the wooden studs to rot. This problem can be difficult to spot during a visual inspection, because these components are concealed in the structure and problems may be present for a long time before damage is noticed. Peeling paint can sometimes be an indication of a wall condensation problem

Answer 50

Studs constructed from poor quality lumber are more likely to warp, twist, or bow. This can affect the integrity of the framing system. A sign that the studs have twisted or warped is bulging or cracked drywall, which is expensive to repair because the damaged studs would need to be removed and replaced

Answer 51

A beam is a long structural component, typically made of either wood (solid wood or built-up wood, such as laminated veneer wood), plywood, or steel. The beam, which is attached to the top of the foundation walls, carries the floor and wall loads horizontally to the foundation

Answer 52

Joists – typically made from wood, and more recently, metal, plywood, or wafer board – are a series of horizontal components that support a floor, ceiling, or roof when attached to beams. The materials used for joists are specialized in their design and engineering and should not be substituted.

Answer 53

Springy floors refer to a deflection (i.e., change of direction) of the floor. It’s important to note that the Building Code permits a certain amount of this to occur. Springy floors can be identified by a pliable feeling when pressure is applied to them. Typically, this can be caused when the wood of the subfloor is too thin. This may lead to the subfloor failing under a concentrated load (e.g., a large piano or heavy cabinetry). A potential solution to springy floors is to add bridging or an additional layer of plywood over the subfloor to eliminate the deflection.

Answer 54

A squeaky floor or subfloor can be identified by an audible sound being emitted when pressure is applied to it. This problem is often caused by inadequately attaching the subfloor, which leads to poor contact between the subfloor and the joists.

Answer 55

Water damage can be identified by floor discolouration, a change in texture, or a musty odour. As the wafer board often used for subfloor soaks up water, much like a sponge, a small amount of water can cause swelling that results in an uneven floor.

Answer 56

Uneven floors can be identified visually by sections of the floor that are not level when compared to others. Although more of a cosmetic problem than a structural one, uneven subfloor can be caused by the irregular installation of joists, debris on top of the joists when the subfloor is laid, swelled wafer boards, and the delaminating of plywood (i.e., layers become split)

Answer 57

The wood frame walls in the framing system are load-bearing and carry the weight of the roof and floors down to the foundation. These may be either interior or exterior walls. Studs provide space for insulation and surfaces to secure interior and exterior finishes, such as drywall or brick veneer.

Answer 58

Moisture- Moisture, a recurring problem for structures made of wood, can cause rotting, wood swelling, and infestation of termites

Answer 59

Termites, small, pale soft-bodied insects that feed on wood, can be a problem for any building component made of wood, including wall systems. Termites feed on wood but live in the soil. In colder climates, termite colonies are usually located below the level of frost penetration and typically close to a moisture source. Termites travel by moving through wood, soil, or shelter tubes they construct.

Answer 60

Cracked walls can be a sign of serious and potentially ongoing structural damage.These cracks often begin with windows, doorways, or building corners and can be identified by a quick inspection of the structure’s walls

Answer 61

Wood rot is a form of deterioration that can occur in any type of wood caused by conditions related to temperature, moisture, and oxygen. Wood rot can be identified visually by its brown, decayed appearance caused by a fungus attacking the wood cells, causing the cells and the wood to collapse.

Answer 62

Drywall screws and nails will begin to loosen over time, which causes the drywall to move and push the head of the nail or screw outward, leading to a bubbling or blistering of the drywall. This bubbling or blistering is called a nail pop. The bulging wall can be fixed by resecuring the drywall to the framing with new nails and using a hammer to depress the popping nails back to their original location. After the drywall is re-secured, sanding and painting the area can eliminate the visible bulge from the nail pops.

Answer 63

Drainage is a system of drains, either artificial or natural, used to remove water. Several components are involved with this process, such as piping, conduits, ditches, swales, or drainage devices for the run-off of water on land and in proximity to the building structure on both surface and sub-surface levels. Basements require proper drainage because prolonged exposure to moisture or stagnant water can affect systems required for the structural support of a home

Answer 64

The results of improper grading can be visually identified from the build-up of water around the exterior walls of the basement. If the ground around a foundation is level or negative grade (i.e., slopes towards the structure), then the natural run-off of water may lead towards the basement. In this case, the soil next to the house was likely backfilled without being compacted and then later settled. If the general topography is such that water is directed toward the structure, further measures to divert the water may be required (e.g., installing drain tile around the perimeter of the structure).

Answer 65

Defective eavestroughs and downspouts can be identified when they are unable to control the run-off of rain water properly, and the water could either drip or pool at locations that could be problematic to the property. The solution is to find the location of the malfunction and either repair or replace the system that is not properly controlling the water-run off.

Answer 66

A window well is a rectangular hole in front of a basement window that is below grade. The purpose of a window well is to prevent water penetration through the window and water damage to the window frames, and to allow for egress out of the basement in case of an emergency. When a window well is not functioning properly, it can be visually identified by the build-up of water around its base. Most window wells are connected to the weeping tile bed at the footings, which allows rain water to run off through that system and not accumulate in the well.

Answer 67

A sump pit is a hole dug in a basement floor into which a pump is placed. If water is present under the basement floor, it will enter the pit first as it is lower than the surface of the basement floor. When it reaches a certain height, the pump will start, and the water will be pumped to the outside of the house by way of a drain hose. Drainage tiles maintain the removal of excess water from soil below the surface.

Answer 68

Efflorescence is a whitish mineral deposit sometimes seen on the interior of concrete, brick, stucco, or natural stone surface. The presence of efflorescence is a quick and reliable way to identify the possibility of moisture penetration in a structure.

Answer 69

Rusty baseboard nails, electrical boxes, and support posts on appliances are signs that may indicate the penetration of water into a basement system. This problem can be corrected or eliminated by installing or improving the exterior grading and drainage components, such as eavestroughs and downspouts.

Answer 70

Mould or mildew in basements can often be the result of some form of high moisture areas and poor ventilation

Answer 71

Staining or discolouration from water penetration can occur in different areas of a structure, including panelling, drywall, or other interior-side finishes. This problem is an indication of a leak and requires further investigation.

Answer 72

Gable roofs can be identified by their simple design of two sloped sides and a gable (i.e., enclosing portion at the end of any pitched roof) on either end. When viewed, a completed gable roof will have the appearance of an inverted letter “V

Answer 73

Hip roofs are sometimes called cottage roofs and refer to a layout that has slopes on all four sides. The sides are all equal in length and join at the top to form the ridge. This style of roof can be found in both square and rectangular structures.

Answer 74

Gambrel roofs are more commonly recognized with barn structures, although they are also used in residential roofing. A gambrel roof is identified from its symmetrical two sides that slope more steeply approximately halfway down the length of either side.

Answer 75

Mansard roofs contain many similar features as gambrel roof, including an allocation of sufficient space for the inclusion of an attic, which can sometimes be referred to as a garret. Mansard roofs are identified by their two slopes along all four sides, which become steeper approximately halfway down. The mansard roof is a hybrid between a gambrel roof and a hip roof. The mansard roof provides additional space because of its virtually vertical slopes.

Answer 76

More common in commercial and industrial buildings, flat roofs can also be used for residential properties. Despite their name, flat roofs are not completely flat; they have a slight slope to prevent the collection of water.

Answer 77

A-frame roofs are identified by their steep, triangular shape that runs directly to ground level, which function as walls for the structure, and were a popular design in the mid-1950s to the 1970s. Because of this design, structures with A-frame roofs are typically smaller, and are often one-and-one-half storey structures.

Answer 78

A roof with a pitch greater than four in twelve.

Answer 79

A roof with a pitch between four in twelve and two in twelve.

Answer 80

A roof with a pitch less than two in twelve.

Answer 81

Potential Drawback: • Not ideal for areas with frequently high winds, as this may cause the materials to peel away Allow for more ventilation, which could provide more space for an attic or vaulted ceiling

Answer 82

Potential Drawback: | • Typically, difficult and expensive to construct due to their complex truss and rafter system

Answer 83

Potential Drawback: Not ideal for areas with frequently high winds or snowfall • May require more frequent maintenance than other roof styles • Require a proper roof vent system during installation to improve on better air circulation and ventilation

Answer 84

Flashing refers to thin pieces of impervious material installed in joints or gaps to prevent water from seeping into a structure. They could be used anywhere dissimilar building materials meet, which happens in valleys, around chimneys, dormer windows extending from the side of a roof, and skylights. Flashing is also used wherever a material changes directions on a roof. Flashing is typically composed of galvanized steel, but tin, aluminum, or copper may also be used.

Answer 85

Roof sheathing is typically composed of wood plank, plywood, or wafer board panels. It serves to support the roof covering and transmits live roof loads such as snow and ice towards the rafters, trusses, or roof joist

Answer 86

A roof truss holds up the sheathing and shingles while transferring the roof loads to the outside or the bearing walls of a structure. Trusses contain triangle-shaped webs inside their frame that serve as additional support. Trusses are typically designed using wood and their design can vary slightly: • The fink truss, with internal support beams or web members, form the shape of the letter W. • The Howe truss uses the same material but in a vertical web running up to its peak.

Answer 87

A rafter is a roof component commonly associated with sloped roofs. The rafter supports the roof sheathing and transmits the roof loads to bearing walls and beams below. Some rafters support finished ceilings, such as cathedral ceilings.

Answer 88

Collar ties are laterally placed wood members installed between opposing rafters approximately halfway up the attic space. These ties are designed to prevent rafters from sagging inward.

Answer 89

A knee wall is a small wall, typically built with two-byfour wood studs in the attic that prevents rafter sag. Knee walls in one-and-one-half or two-storey houses sometimes form the walls of a room on the upper floor as they run from the attic floor up to the underside of the rafters near their midpoint. As a result, upper rooms created by this approach often have partly sloped ceilings.

Answer 90

Ice damming: Some roofing configurations are more prone to ice damming problems than others. Ice damming occurs when snow and ice collect in a certain area of the roof, often the eaves. Melting snow on the upper portion of the roof cannot drain properly as it is trapped behind the ice dam. Tree branches touching roof The abrasive action of branches rubbing against the roof can damage the roof system and shorten its life expectancy. Also, tree limbs touching buildings provide easy access to the home for pests, such as squirrels.

Answer 91

Condensation: Moisture in an attic can cause considerable problems. Plywood roof sheathing will delaminate, and wafer board sheathing will swell. This can cause loss of strength in the sheathing and render the nailing of the sheathing ineffective, as nails are pulled out of the rafters, or through the sheathing. In severe cases, the roof covering must be removed, and the sheathing replaced. Too thin: Sheathing that is too thin for the application will deflect (i.e., bend inwards) under load and result in sagging of the roof line. Aesthetically, this is considered unacceptable although sagging to the point of failure would be unusual.

Answer 92

Cut Individual chords or webs that are cut or damaged can be a serious problem. Cutting a truss in one spot may compromise the entire truss structure. Truss uplift Truss uplift, relatively common in new houses, involves the bottom member (chord) of the truss deflecting upward during winter weather

Answer 93

A soffit is the material that covers the underside of the overhang of a roof. Soffits provide both aesthetic and functional purposes for a residential structure. Without soffits, the ends of the rafters and trusses would be visible.

Answer 94

Fascia is the wooden board or otherwise flat piece of material that covers the ends of the rafters, and is visible from the exterior of a property. Eavestroughs are attached to the fascia which prevents moisture and water leakage into the roof and the attic

Answer 95

The eavestrough is attached to both the fascia board and downspout. Eavestroughs collect rainwater that flows through the downspout to grade level, protecting against wall damage and localized ground level erosion caused by roof run-of

Answer 96

Proper attic ventilation is a crucial factor for residential structures. Attics can be a common area for the formation of mould and wood rot. Sufficient air circulation through an attic venting system is required to eliminate moisture from collecting in the attic.

Answer 97

Potential problems with soffits include sagging or looseness, which could be caused from wear and tear associated with weather elements. The location of the soffit can make it more susceptible to water damag

Answer 98

Fascia can be vulnerable to damage if water gets behind the board, which could be caused by clogged eavestroughs, improper shingle overhang, and ice damming. Wooden fascia board may also rot, split, or become loose.

Answer 99

Potential problems with eavestroughs include the collection of debris, which requires cleaning typically once a year, and faulty fasteners that can cause the eavestrough to fall or collapse. Additional hangers can be used to further secure the eavestrough to prevent this.

Answer 100

This is a common form of roofing material in part because they are relatively inexpensive and straightforward to install. They come in a variety of different colours and are typically classified by their weight, which can impact their utility period. T

Answer 101

Metal roofs can effectively withstand most weather conditions, including a resistance to higher winds. Metal roofs can reflect solar rays and enhance energy saving costs. Advantages include low maintenance, resistance to decay, and durability as metal roofs can last approximately 40 to 70 years. A key consideration is the cost, as metal can be expensive.

Answer 102

Wood shingles and shakes have a similar configuration to conventional asphalt shingles but are made of wood. The shingles are machine-cut, and the shakes are either hand split or mechanically split. The utility period for wood shingles is relatively high, often between 30 to 40 years. One potential downside of wood shingles and shakes is that exposure to frequent sunlight can dehydrate the shingles and cause them to become brittle, and excessive shade or moisture can lead to rot and enable moss to grow.

Answer 103

Slate, made of stone cut into shingles or plates, are a premium roofing material. They are durable, waterproof, and fireproof. However, slate can tend to be brittle and easily damaged by hail, debris, or foot traffic on the roof. Slate roofs have an average utility period of 60 to 100 years. One potential downside is their weight; a slate roof can weigh three to five times more than asphalt shingles. The support system must be reinforced to support the weight

Answer 104

Rarely seen in Ontario, concrete and clay tiles are a relatively high-quality roofing system that can have a utility period of 50 to 100 years. As with slate shingles, these roofs are heavy and can weigh four to five times as much as asphalt shingles. Also, clay is brittle, subject to mechanical damage, and prone to failure of fastenings such as nailings. An excessive number of broken tiles on the roof may be a sign that the roof material is nearing the end of its utility period and should be looked at by a third-party professional.

Answer 105

Corrugated plastic tile is a single-ply surface generally used over patios and light structures. This roofing is considered low quality and is subject to fading, discolouration, and leaking at the joints This roofing material is more often associated with accessory buildings such as sheds.

Answer 106

The head is the portion of the door frame located on the top of the door and runs horizontally across from one side to the other. The head is sometimes referred to as the top rail. In the case of sliding doors, the head would also be where the top portion of the track is installed to allow movement.

Answer 107

The jamb of a door pertains to both the left or right portion of the door frame running vertically up and down the length of the door. Depending on the direction the door swings, either jamb can be the location where the hinges are mounted

Answer 108

The sill is located at the bottom of the door at the floor level and runs horizontally to support the frame of the door. The sill is sometimes referred to as the threshold. Sills are raised slightly to prevent water from entering the house and are often fitted with a piece of weather stripping to insulate the area under the door.

Answer 109

A stop is a continuous projection attached to the head and jambs of a door, which functions to prevent the door from swinging past the frame when closing or opening.

Answer 110

he buck of a door is the sub-frame around the door. Bucks are sometimes referred to as the casing. These are typically designed from either wood or pressed metal.

Answer 111

Wood doors are widely and commonly used because of their beautiful, high end look and ease of repair. However, the down side is they absorb moisture, peel and bubble out, twist and fade, and can be expensive. They are the least energy efficient door and poor insulators of heat and even heat flow out of all the materials available today

Answer 112

Panel doors are more commonly used as interior doors but can also be used as exterior doors. The frames of these doors are typically made of wood but can also be constructed from engineered wood (e.g., plywood, hard board, or block board). The panels of this door type can be constructed from either wood or glass panes that can be patterned into different shape

Answer 113

Although glass is more commonly used for door panes, doors can be composed of a large single pane of glass situated inside a typically wooden frame. Glass patio doors are fairly common as an alternative to sliding backyard doors.

Answer 114

Sliding glass doors are most common as an entrance to the backyard at the rear of the house. They are often situated around metal or wood frames with thermal breaks that allow the frame to remain warmer, and reduce condensation and icing problems in winter

Answer 115

steel doors are a great option for an exterior door. They are relatively inexpensive, come in a variety of colours and offer the security and weather resistance of a fiberglass and wood door. They are typically low maintenance, however, dents are hard to fix and scratches may rust if not painted promptly.

Answer 116

Fibreglass entry doors are a practical choice for most people. They resist wear and tear, can be painted or stained, moderately priced and dent-resistant, and require very little maintenance. Fibreglass exterior doors are a poor conductor of heat and electricity and due to the foam fill they provide for a high degree of energy efficiency. These doors are highly weather resistant, which provides for minimal heat loss.

Answer 117

This is a common problem caused by a sagging or misaligned door, or a latch that has become loose and doesn’t align with the door. Both problems can be remedied by realigning either the hinges of the door, or readjusting the height of the latch

Answer 118

This is a common problem caused by a sagging or misaligned door, or a latch that has become loose and doesn’t align with the door. Both problems can be remedied by realigning either the hinges of the door, or readjusting the height of the latch.

Answer 119

This problem can often be caused from the frequent slamming of a door. When it occurs, this problem can be fixed by installing new framework to the door where it has become misaligned. The door frame may also require re-securing by tightening the hinges of the door, which can sometimes be a problem in older homes.

Answer 120

This is a problem that may occur as a result of the door hinges rubbing against each other. A squeaking door can be remedied by lubricating the hinges of the door with oil.

Answer 121

This problem may occur as a result of gaps around the perimeter of the door. Drafty doors can be remedied by replacing the weather stripping around the perimeter of the door, which may also aid in heating and cooling costs for a home.

Answer 122

A properly insulated door serves to keep the outdoor weather from your home and prevent the unwanted exchange of heat. It can also prevent air and temperature leakage, meaning the amount of energy used to heat or cool the home internally is not being lost.

Answer 123

Exterior doors can contribute to air leakage and heat loss, particularly if the door is older, not insulated, or improperly air sealed. Heat may be lost through the door, frame, sill, glass, or any other opening. Replacing or upgrading older doors may potentially reduce the amount of heat that is lost

Answer 124

A properly insulated door can enhance energy efficiency, which can lead to less air leakage and heat loss. Energy efficiency does not only relate to the door. Weatherstripping, sills, and jambs should form a tight seal, which increases the energy efficiency of the door.

Answer 125

Storm doors are a specialized type of door installed in front of an exterior access door. They can protect the exterior door from weather conditions and the additional layer of insulation reduces heat loss in the winter while keeping cool air in when it’s warm. Storm doors are typically designed from aluminum, plastic, PVC, fibreglass, or other materials. Storm doors can also be fitted with a retractable screen to increase air ventilation in summer.Storm doors can be beneficial because they protect the house from weather extremes and provide a degree of improved energy efficiency to the property

Answer 126

Weatherstripping is the application of insulating strips around the door perimeter to avoid air and heat transfer. Weatherstripping ensures there is minimal to no heat exchange and functions as an additional barrier to eliminate this flow

Answer 127

A casement window is hinged and often operates through the turning of a crank handle that allows the window to open and close. This style of window can be hinged on either the left or right side, or open outward. The material used for casement windows include wood, metal, vinyl, or a combination.

Answer 128

A double-hung window is composed of two sashes that slide vertically within the frame. Once a double-hung window is opened, it can lock in place to remain open. A single-hung window functions in the same way but only the bottom portion of the window can open and close, while the rest remains stationary

Answer 129

An awning window has a hinge at the top that allows the window to open outward. The hinge can be installed above or below the window. Awning windows can be beneficial when they are placed near windows that don’t open as part of their design

Answer 130

A bay window is typically designed as three separate windows. The centre window is often a picture window, with two smaller windows on either side of it. The two windows on either side are often angled. A bay window is typically designed as three separate windows. The centre window is often a picture window, with two smaller windows on either side of it. The two windows on either side are often angled.

Answer 131

A slider window, an older style of window generally regarded as lower in quality, is a single pane of glass that slides on a wood or vinyl track. It often has a simple locking device and pull knobs sometimes attached to the surface of the glass. A slider window will open horizontally rather than vertically and is relatively inexpensive

Answer 132

A skylight can be installed in both new construction and resale homes. They are typically made from tempered glass or plastic (flat or bubble shaped), which have better resistance to breakage than conventional glass. They are subject to scratching so abrasive cleaners should not be used. Skylights can also be prone to leaks and condensation.

Answer 133

A large amount of air escaping through a window can lead to significant increases to a house’s heating and cooling costs. Reasons for this problem include broken window seals, poorly insulated windows, improperly installed windows, or cracked and rotting window frames.

Answer 134

A window that clouds or becomes foggy is an indicator of condensation build up. The seal between the glass panes of windows was not able to prevent the moisture penetration. This can be a problem in winter because moisture could freeze in between the windows, which could damage the windows and raise heating costs. This is a sign of deterioration and the best solution would be to replace the windows.

Answer 135

Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause windows not installed properly to warp, crack, or rot in their window frame if the window has wooden components. This can cause moisture penetration that could lead to the frame rotting or the formation of mould. Vinyl windows can typically withstand temperature fluctuations and require much less maintenance than wood frame windows

Answer 136

Windows sticking or difficult to open can be caused from frames that have warped, the settling of a property over the course of time, or the frames being unintentionally painted shut. Windows can also become inoperable when the weather seal separates from the frame and becomes jammed in the closing device. The solutions to inoperable windows will depend on their cause. In the case of warped windows, these may require an inspection to remedy.

Answer 137

: Bay or bow windows are typically composed of three openings that would align with the homeowner’s preference for light to enter the study or reading room throughout the day. A bay window typically stops a couple of feet above the floor level. A bow window’s structure is curved, creating a rounded appearance on the outside of the home. It usually has four or five separate windows.

Answer 138

Glazing refers to the act of furnishing and/or fitting panes or sheets of glass as in the case of windows and doors. Windows were previously only available as singleglazed (i.e., one pane of glass). Windows can now be purchased as single, double, or triple-glazed. Each additional layer of glazing provides more energy efficiency and noise reduction. Double-glazing is either factory sealed or vented. The factory sealed double-glazing is designed to have no air infiltration or exfiltration between the two panes. Vented double-glazing allows for outside air movement to the space between the two panes

Answer 139

Inert gases, such as argon and krypton, are used as fill between glazing given their ability to reduce window heat transfer and cold spots at the window base between the panes. Both inert gas fills are non-toxic and colourless. Argon is most common because krypton is more expensive.

Answer 140

Tempered glass is specialized glass that is significantly stronger than conventional glass used in residential windows. This type of glass is processed through controlled thermal or chemical treatments to increase strength. Windows with tempered glass are scratch- and damage-resistant and provide better insulation

Answer 141

Window films (sometimes called frosted windows) and window tinting have several benefits, including privacy, UV ray protection, heat reduction, fade, and glare protection. Window film and window tinting can be applied to windows that have already been installed or purchased with these modifications

Answer 142

The spacer of a window segments the two glass panes in a thermal window that is accompanied by a sealant. Traditionally, most glazed units were produced with an aluminum spacer. Although lightweight, durable, and relatively inexpensive, this metal is very effective at conducting heat and is a significant source of heat loss. Low conductivity spacers are made from insulating material such as foam, butyl, thermo-plastic or thermally improved metals which conduct significantly less heat energy. The result is a more energy efficient window, reduced heat loss, and reduced condensation

Answer 143

low-e reflect long wave radiation, allow sunlight during winter month U-value- U-value is a measure of heat flow through an object (e.g., window glazing) often referred to as the heat transfer coefficient. It is a component for establishing the efficiency rating (ER) of windows. The U-value is the reciprocal of the R-value commonly associated with insulation.If the U-value decreases, the R-value increases.

Answer 144

CSA Group is one of the largest standards development organizations in North America – conducting research and developing standards for a broad range of technologies and functional areas. In terms of residential windows, CSA Group focuses primarily on several different categories, including air tightness, water tightness, wind resistance, condensation, forced entry, ease of operation, and visible transmittance.

Answer 145

A pie-shaped lot is identified by the relatively smaller frontage when compared to the larger rear yard area of the lot. Homeowners may prefer this lot shape because of its larger space for the backyard, which allows for various structures or other improvements to be built (e.g., deck, shed, swimming pool).

Answer 146

A reverse pie-shaped lot has the majority of the yard area in the front of the home, which results in a reduced backyard area. This shape of lot allows fora wider structure facing the road. This could include more living space and/or the option of placing a garage at the side rather than at the front of the house.

Answer 147

The property features are important considerations. A lot that has a treed or bush area, or a small stream can be considered more desirable. Land topography (e.g., whether the lot is level or slopes) can influence the desirability of a property. An uneven or hilly stretch of land can impact the ability to construct, modify, or expand residential structures.