Maintenance Protocols Flashcards

The IRC requires lot grading to fall away from the foundation by at least how much within the first 10 feet?

Answer: 6 inches

IRC R401.3 requires at least a 6-inch fall within the first 10 feet so surface water drains away from the foundation.

As a maintenance recommendation, how far from the foundation should downspouts typically discharge water?

Answer: 4–6 feet or more

Extending downspouts several feet away keeps roof runoff from saturating soil against the foundation.

White, powdery efflorescence on a basement wall most directly indicates what?

Answer: Moisture moving through the masonry

Efflorescence forms when water carries salts through masonry and evaporates, which points to moisture intrusion that needs drainage maintenance.

Under NFPA 10, how often should portable fire extinguishers receive a visual inspection?

Answer: Monthly

NFPA 10 requires monthly visual inspections, plus annual maintenance by a qualified person.

What is the purpose of a float switch installed in an HVAC secondary condensate drain pan?

Answer: To shut down the system if condensate backs up

If the primary drain clogs, the float switch shuts off the unit to prevent water damage.

During routine deck maintenance checks, which component is most critical for preventing a catastrophic deck collapse?

Answer: Ledger board attachment to the house

Ledger connection failures, often caused by missing flashing, rot, or improper fasteners, are the most common cause of deck collapse.

Per federal safety standards, the auto-reverse of an automatic garage door opener should be tested monthly using what?

Answer: A 1½-inch object such as a 2x4 laid flat

Placing a 1½-inch-high object (a 2x4 laid flat) under the door verifies that it reverses on contact.