CHI Insulation & Ventilation Inspection 2

Question 1

What is the primary function of soffit vents in an attic ventilation system?

Accepted Answer

Provide cool intake air at the lower roof edge

Answer

Allow hot air to escape at the ridge

Answer

Prevent moisture from entering the attic

Answer

Support insulation in the rafter bays

Question 2

Which insulation material provides the highest R-value per inch of thickness?

Accepted Answer

Closed-cell spray foam

Answer

Standard fiberglass batt

Answer

Open-cell spray foam

Answer

Blown-in cellulose

Question 3

What roof-related condition commonly results from inadequate attic ventilation combined with excessive heat loss through the ceiling in cold climates?

Accepted Answer

Ice dams

Answer

Thermal bridging

Answer

Interstitial condensation

Answer

Efflorescence

Question 4

When installing faced fiberglass batt insulation in exterior wall cavities in a cold climate, where should the vapor retarder facing be oriented?

Accepted Answer

Toward the warm-in-winter (interior) side of the wall

Answer

Toward the exterior sheathing

Answer

It can face either direction equally

Answer

The facing should be removed before installation

Question 5

What type of ventilation relies solely on natural forces such as temperature differences and wind pressure to move air, without any mechanical equipment?

Accepted Answer

Natural ventilation

Answer

Mechanical ventilation

Answer

Exhaust-only ventilation

Answer

Energy recovery ventilation

Question 6

During a crawl space inspection, which observation should a home inspector flag as a deficiency requiring correction?

Accepted Answer

Evidence of moisture staining or mold on the insulation and framing

Answer

Insulation installed with vapor barrier facing up toward the floor joists

Answer

Ground cover vapor barrier fully covering the soil surface

Answer

Insulation R-value meeting or exceeding local code requirements

Question 7

What is the primary concern when cellulose insulation becomes saturated with water due to a leak or flooding?

Accepted Answer

It compresses, promotes mold growth, and retains moisture causing long-term structural damage

Answer

It immediately ignites due to combustion of its paper fibers

Answer

It releases toxic off-gases into the living space

Answer

It loses its fire-retardant treatment and becomes a code violation