Practice Test Geeks(InterNACHI) International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Practice Test
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Insulation and Ventilation Flashcards

7 cards from real INTERNACHI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Insulation and Ventilation flashcards as text

  1. What is the minimum recommended R-value for attic insulation in a Climate Zone 5 home, per DOE guidelines commonly referenced by InterNACHI?

    Answer: R-49

    The DOE recommends R-49 to R-60 for attics in Climate Zone 5, reflecting the need for high thermal resistance in colder northern climates.

  2. An inspector finds that recessed light fixtures in the ceiling below an attic are not IC-rated but are in direct contact with insulation. What is the hazard?

    Answer: Heat buildup from non-IC fixtures in contact with insulation can cause a fire

    Non-IC-rated (Insulation Contact) fixtures are not designed to handle heat buildup when surrounded by insulation, creating a potential fire hazard.

  3. Which type of ventilation system uses negative pressure created by exhaust fans to draw fresh air through intentional or unintentional openings in the building envelope?

    Answer: Exhaust-only ventilation

    Exhaust-only systems depressurize the building, drawing outdoor air in through leaks and intentional inlets to replace the exhausted air.

  4. What does a home inspector look for when evaluating whether blown-in cellulose insulation in an attic has settled significantly?

    Answer: Depth ruler markings on attic trusses or joists indicating original fill depth

    Depth rulers or markers installed at the time of insulation installation allow inspectors and homeowners to verify whether cellulose has settled below its original depth.

  5. A home inspector observes that a whole-house fan is installed in the ceiling but has no insulated cover in place during winter. What is the primary concern?

    Answer: The large uninsulated opening allows significant heat loss and cold air infiltration

    Whole-house fan openings represent a significant thermal and air-sealing weakness in winter; without an insulated cover, they allow substantial heat loss and cold infiltration.

  6. Which insulation material has the highest risk of moisture absorption and subsequent loss of R-value when exposed to water intrusion?

    Answer: Open-cell spray foam

    Open-cell spray foam is highly permeable and will absorb water, losing its R-value and potentially harboring mold if exposed to moisture intrusion.

  7. What is the term for the phenomenon where warm interior air leaks into a wall or ceiling cavity and deposits moisture as it cools near the exterior surface?

    Answer: Air transport condensation

    Air transport condensation occurs when air-transported moisture — not diffusion — carries water vapor into a cavity where it condenses on cooler surfaces, often causing far more damage than vapor diffusion.