Attics & Crawl Spaces Flashcards
7 cards from real ASHI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Attics & Crawl Spaces flashcards as text
An inspector notices that attic insulation is blocking the soffit vents. What is the primary concern?
Answer: Reduced airflow causing moisture and heat buildup in the attic
Blocked soffit vents restrict the intake of fresh air needed for ventilation, trapping heat and moisture and potentially causing roof damage.
Which of the following best describes the purpose of a vapor retarder in a crawl space?
Answer: To prevent ground moisture from evaporating into the crawl space air
A vapor retarder limits evaporation of ground moisture into the crawl space, reducing humidity, wood decay, and mold growth.
During an attic inspection, an ASHI inspector identifies active wood-boring insect damage to the roof framing. What should the inspector do?
Answer: Document the condition and recommend evaluation by a qualified pest control specialist
ASHI inspectors document conditions and recommend specialists; they do not treat, repair, or alter components during inspections.
What type of attic ventilation is considered most effective because it creates a continuous flow from soffit to ridge?
Answer: Balanced soffit and ridge ventilation system
A balanced system with soffit intake and ridge exhaust creates a natural convective airflow loop, which is the most effective passive ventilation method.
An inspector finds rust stains on the crawl space structural members and standing water in one corner. Which additional system should the inspector evaluate most carefully as a result?
Answer: The site grading and drainage around the foundation
Standing water in a crawl space is typically caused by poor site grading or drainage directing water toward the foundation.
What is the purpose of baffles (vent chutes) installed in an attic?
Answer: To maintain an air channel between the insulation and roof sheathing above the soffit vents
Baffles create a channel that keeps soffit vent airflow open even when deep insulation is installed, ensuring proper ventilation.
An inspector discovers that the crawl space has no mechanical ventilation and the foundation vents are permanently sealed. Which condition would make this acceptable?
Answer: The crawl space is fully encapsulated with a sealed vapor barrier and conditioned air supply
A fully encapsulated, conditioned crawl space is an accepted alternative to vented crawl spaces when properly designed and implemented.