Exterior Evaluation Flashcards
7 cards from real NHIE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Exterior Evaluation flashcards as text
When inspecting a covered porch roof that connects to the main house wall, what is the MOST important flashing detail to verify?
Answer: Counterflashing is embedded in the wall and overlaps step or base flashing below it
Counterflashing embedded in the wall and lapping over base flashing creates a two-part system that prevents water from getting behind the flashing at the wall connection.
A home inspector finds that the ledger board connecting a deck to the house was fastened through the exterior stucco without proper flashing. What is the PRIMARY risk?
Answer: Water infiltrates behind the stucco at fastener penetrations, causing rot to the rim joist and framing
Unflashed ledger-to-stucco connections allow water to enter at every fastener penetration and accumulate against the house framing, causing hidden structural decay.
Which observation about asphalt shingle condition is MOST significant when evaluating a roof from ground level during an exterior inspection?
Answer: Granule loss exposing the underlying mat, indicating advanced weathering and end-of-life
Significant granule loss exposes the asphalt mat to UV degradation and accelerates shingle failure, signaling the roof is approaching or at end of useful life.
What condition at the intersection of a skylight and the surrounding roof surface is MOST indicative of a potential leak?
Answer: Visible gaps or deteriorated sealant at the curb-to-frame joint with no integrated flashing visible
Gaps or failed sealant at a skylight curb with no integrated flashing allows water to run directly under the roofing material and into the structure.
During an exterior evaluation, an inspector notices that the garage floor slab slopes toward the interior rather than toward the garage door opening. What should be reported?
Answer: Water and vehicle drip will pool inside the garage and may migrate into the house
A garage floor sloped toward the interior traps water, increasing moisture, corrosion, and the risk of water entry into the adjacent living space.
An inspector observes wood fence posts that are set directly in concrete that rises above grade. Why is this a concern?
Answer: Concrete holds moisture against the wood at grade level, accelerating post decay at the most vulnerable point
When concrete rises above grade and contacts wood, it traps moisture at the soil line where post decay almost always begins, shortening post life significantly.
Which exterior door deficiency represents both an energy efficiency issue and a potential security concern?
Answer: Daylight visible around the door perimeter when closed, indicating failed weatherstripping and gaps
Gaps where daylight is visible around a closed door allow air infiltration that reduces energy efficiency and may indicate a misaligned frame or door that is easier to force open.