Author Archives: Jerry Prugar

Please, Mr. or Ms. Architect, No More Roof Geometry Like This

Posted by in Roof, The Unusual, Water Sources | November 17, 2014

I don’t know how many times we have been contacted to evaluate interior water damage (Figure NMRG-1) that was a result of poor roof geometry. Many times examination of the roof and/or the siding on the exterior reveals the obvious… Read More →

Improper Repair Techniques

Posted by in Roof | November 10, 2014

When a roof leak is discovered, it is recommended that the repair be made on the roof side of the leak.  That is, the repair must be applied at the roof to prevent water from rain and snow melt from… Read More →

Indestructible?

Posted by in Buying/Maintaining a Home, The Unusual | November 03, 2014

I recently read that studies were being done to determine whether or not the fractured granite at Mt. Rushmore had been affected by the increased air pressures of nearby fireworks set off annually by the National Parks on the 4th… Read More →

Happy Halloween! (2014)

Posted by in Commemoration/Celebration | October 27, 2014

“Halloween”  comes from the phrase “hallows eve,” which literally means “holy evening.” Considering the general theme of Halloween over the past 50 plus years that I have been aware of it, the meaning is quite ironic. Apparently, it was at… Read More →

What Can We Tell from This Photo? (Case Study 4)

Posted by in Basements, Cracking, Masonry, Simple Forensic Methods | October 20, 2014

  This is an exercise to develop the abilities of observation. What can one know from examining this photograph? The pattern of the joints under the coating indicate that this is a concrete block wall. The coating appears to be… Read More →

Happy Columbus Day! (2014)

Posted by in Commemoration/Celebration | October 13, 2014

  Columbus Day doesn’t get the press it used to because of various historical and political disputes that have arisen over the past few decades.  Ignoring those disputes for a moment I make the following observations: 1.  It amazes me… Read More →

What the Heck? (Volume 2)

Posted by in The Unusual | October 06, 2014

Some things that we have seen just cause us the mumble, “What the heck?” Figure WTH2-1 Line of roof deck staples miss their mark.   I’m not a fan of using staples to fasten a roof deck, especially when they… Read More →

What Can We Tell from This Photograph? (Case Study 3)

Posted by in Simple Forensic Methods | September 29, 2014

  This is an exercise to develop the abilities of observation. What can one know from examining this photograph? The wood trusses are showing distress. Specifically, the members are buckling and the trusses are leaning as evidenced by the members… Read More →