NHIE Insulation and Ventilation 3

Question 1

A home inspector finds vermiculite insulation in an attic. What is the most appropriate recommendation?

Accepted Answer

Recommend testing by a qualified asbestos professional due to potential contamination

Answer

Much vermiculite, especially from the Libby, Montana mine, was contaminated with asbestos; inspectors should recommend evaluation and testing by a qualified asbestos professional.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of attic baffles (rafter vents)?

Accepted Answer

To maintain an air channel from soffit vents to the attic while preventing insulation from blocking airflow

Answer

Attic baffles create an unobstructed channel between the roof deck and insulation at the eaves, ensuring blown-in or batt insulation does not block soffit vent airflow.

Question 3

Which condition most clearly indicates inadequate attic ventilation during a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

Moisture stains, mold growth, or frost on attic roof sheathing

Answer

Moisture stains, mold, or frost on roof sheathing indicate that humid air is accumulating in the attic without sufficient ventilation to remove it.

Question 4

What does the term 'blown-in insulation' refer to?

Accepted Answer

Loose-fill insulation installed using air-powered pneumatic equipment

Answer

Blown-in (loose-fill) insulation such as cellulose or fiberglass is installed using pneumatic equipment that blows material into attic floors or wall cavities.

Question 5

What problem results when batt or blown-in insulation is compressed or disturbed from its installed position?

Accepted Answer

Reduced R-value and diminished thermal performance

Answer

Compression or disturbance reduces insulation thickness and disrupts the air pockets that provide thermal resistance, directly lowering the effective R-value.

(NHIE) National Home Inspector Examination Practice Test

(NHIE) National Home Inspector Examination Practice Test

NHIE Insulation and Ventilation 3