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 New Jersey
home inspection NJ home
inspectors perform
Certified New Jersey home
inspections in NJ.
VENTILATION INSUFFICIENT /
SCREENS MISSING / AMISS:
Like attic vents, ventilation under the
structure is necessary to maintain a
"healthy" atmosphere and environment
for the structure. Foundation vents are usually
required at the rate of one square foot of
opening for each 150 square feet of floor space.
Mechanical methods of ventilation are acceptable
under some circumstances. Openings should be as
close to corners as practical and should provide
good cross ventilation. Foundation vents should
be equally distributed along at least two
opposite sides of the structure and be covered
with corrosion resistant wire mesh with mesh
openings of at least 1/4 inch. If ground water
and moisture are not a problem and a vapor
barrier is installed over the under floor ground
area, it may be allowable to have ten percent
less ventilation area. The inspector cannot
determine the exact dimensions of the vents or
size of the under floor area. Past experiences
and the condition of the under floor area are
viewed as the noteworthy factors. Foundation
vents are also required in garages when fuel
burning appliances are installed within the
garage. In many cases we see these necessary
vents closed off with plywood, shelving, etc.
and/or their screens missing or damaged. Vents
should be installed, cleared, and/or screened
over. Persons handy with tools can easily
install extra vents and the inspector is always
available to explain the exact method best
suited to your circumstances. Garage vents are
often cut into the garage door itself--an easier
job than cutting through an exterior wall. The
correct type vent needed is usually available at
any Building Supply Store. Contact a General
Contractor or Home Repair and Maintenance
Company if you need assistance.
The above information was provided by TWI Systems Copyright 1995-2005 1-800-553-5660 |
