Structural Systems & Components Flashcards

What is the structural significance of 'hurricane ties' or 'rafter ties' used in roof framing?

Answer: They provide a mechanical connection between rafters and wall top plates to resist uplift forces

Hurricane ties are metal connectors that mechanically fasten rafters or trusses to the wall top plate, providing a continuous load path to resist wind uplift forces.

What type of foundation is typically used on steep hillside lots to reach stable soil while minimizing excavation?

Answer: Pier and grade beam foundation

Pier and grade beam foundations use drilled piers or piles to reach stable soil on steep slopes, with grade beams spanning between piers to support the structure above.

A home inspector observes that floor joists run parallel to one side of a bathtub but the subfloor feels soft and spongy near the tub. What is the most likely structural cause?

Answer: Water damage from tub or plumbing leaks has caused decay in joists and subfloor

Soft, spongy subfloor near a bathtub most commonly indicates chronic water intrusion from the tub or plumbing has caused wood decay in the subfloor and underlying joists.

What is a 'moment frame' in structural engineering, and when might a home inspector encounter one?

Answer: A rigid structural frame designed to resist lateral forces through beam-column connections rather than diagonal bracing

A moment frame resists lateral loads (wind/seismic) through rigid connections between beams and columns; inspectors may encounter them in garages with large openings or seismically engineered homes.

When inspecting a wood-framed floor system, what does excessive deflection (bounciness) most commonly indicate?

Answer: Undersized or over-spanned joists, or loss of joist strength due to damage

Excessive floor deflection typically indicates joists that are undersized for their span, over-spanned, damaged by moisture, insects, or improper notching/boring.

What does 'out of plumb' mean when describing a wall condition during a home inspection?

Answer: The wall is not vertically straight — it leans or tilts from true vertical

An out-of-plumb wall deviates from vertical, which can indicate foundation settlement, framing failures, or inadequate lateral bracing.

Which condition should prompt a home inspector to recommend further evaluation by a structural engineer?

Answer: Significant diagonal cracks at window or door corners combined with sticking doors and windows

Diagonal cracks at corners of openings combined with doors and windows that stick or don't operate properly are classic signs of structural movement requiring professional evaluation.